Erdington Hall Primary School staff members hear from Chris Packham CBE

School leaders from Erdington Hall Primary School, part of the Summit Learning Trust, were proud to attend this year’s prestigious National Association of Headteachers (NAHT) ‘Inspiring Leadership’ Conference, an event bringing together education leaders from across the country to collaborate, learn, and hear from powerful voices shaping the future of learning.

The conference closed with a truly moving keynote by Chris Packham CBE, the celebrated naturalist and broadcaster, whose reflections on education, neurodiversity, and environmental responsibility struck a deep chord.

Chris, who has recently presented groundbreaking programmes exploring neurodiversity, urged educators not to be constrained by rigid systems.

“It’s too easy to say, there’s a system. Let’s sit in the system,” he told the audience, encouraging them to be bold in reimagining how education can work for every child.

“If there’s any scope to flex the system, the impact can be profound.”

He also spoke with heartfelt gratitude for the inspirational teachers and leaders who recognised his individuality and helped him flourish, reminding the audience of the power they hold to transform young lives.

As the Erdington Hall leadership team returns from the conference, they do so more determined than ever to build a learning environment where every child can thrive, academically, emotionally, and as part of a more sustainable future.

Jenni Downes, Principal at Erdington Hall Primary School said:

“Hearing Chris Packham speak was a real privilege. His message, that teachers and school leaders have the power to change lives and shape futures, resonated deeply with us.

“His call to think beyond the system and meet children where they are is something we believe in wholeheartedly. We came away energised, especially by his work around neurodiversity and sustainability, which aligns with our school’s core values. Chris is not only inspiring, he’s a catalyst for change.”