The Schools & Academies Show has partnered with Commercial Services Group to provide an exclusive lunch briefing on Wednesday 15th October at the House of Lords.

This session brings together senior education leaders to discuss opportunities for better supporting all learners, particularly those facing disadvantage or exclusion. Providing real-life experiences, the discussion will delve into tackling the recruitment and retention crisis, driving inclusion for SEND and disadvantaged pupils, and preparing young people for life beyond the classroom.

Hosted by Commercial Services Group, the event offers a collaborative and solution-focused environment, previewing early insights from September roundtables with school leaders and practical ways to effectively support all learners. This is unique opportunity to get a better understanding of what’s working on the ground and discover tangible insights that can make an immediate difference to pupil outcomes.

Key Discussion Points:

Breaking the recruitment and retention cycle

• Practical ideas for growing the teacher workforce

• What’s working on the ground — and what support schools need

Supporting all learners — especially SEND and disadvantaged pupils

• Inclusion as a shared challenge across school types

• The risk of unmet need and how local collaboration can help

Preparing pupils for the future — not just the next test

• How schools and systems can better prepare young people for life, work, and further study

• Role of employer partnerships and skills pathways in both MATs and LA-run schools