Lee Elliott-Major at Kingfisher Conference

Lee Elliot-Major, Professor of Social Mobility at the University of Exeter, opened the Kingfisher Schools Trust Conference 2026 with a challenge to put equity at the heart of our thinking and mission as school staff.

Beginning with his own story of finding success from a working-class background, Lee took staff through some of the key issues facing young people today, particularly the barriers that they may face, some of which are educational and others cultural and class-based.

Practical ideas found in Lee's recent and upcoming books were shared, especially in building strong communication with families of all backgrounds, keeping language clear, respectful and positive.

For more details on Lee Elliott-Major's work and his biography please see his page at University of Exeter.