Being, Belonging and Becoming: Supporting Students Seeking Sanctuary

Location: Virtual

Date: 9 December 2026

Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00pm

Our Expert Speaker Programme offers valuable CPD for education professionals on a variety of topics.

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Increased Knowledge
Signposting Information
Professional development

What will the session cover?

This Expert Speaker session delivered by Julie Wharton allows the participants to explore inclusive practices that foster belonging, participation and success for students seeking sanctuary. Drawing on research and practical examples, the session will examine how educators can create welcoming learning environments that recognise students’ strengths, experiences and diverse identities.

Who is the presenter of this session?

Dr Julie Wharton

Our Expert speaker, Dr Julie Wharton, is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Winchester. Her research heavily focusses on inclusion, especially on inclusive school cultures for children who have been forced to seek refuge. In 2023, Julie Wharton was awarded her PhD. In her thesis entitled Children seeking sanctuary and the welcoming teacher: inclusive relationships and Martin Buber’s philosophy of dialogue, Julie Wharton explores strategies for teachers to foster inclusive environments for children who have experienced forced migration. Her background as a former SEND Inspector and current university senior lecturer makes her a strong advocate for vulnerable students.

Who is it for?

This session will be suitable for all staff working in an education setting, including those in SLT roles, pastoral roles, teaching and non-teaching staff. It will also be suitable for staff who work across the education sector, for example, those in higher education, Local Authority or charity roles that would like to further their knowledge.

Organiser Information

If you have any questions about this session please contact:

Tania Silbernagl

SUN Project Facilitator at SU