UpliftEd Conference 2025

Empowering Educators | Strengthening the Profession | Shaping the Future
📅 30–31 October 2025
📍 Massey University, Wellington

About the Conference

The UpliftEd Conference is an energising and thought-provoking event designed for educators who are passionate about their profession and the future of education in Aotearoa. Hosted by the Aotearoa Educators' Collective, this conference brings together leading thinkers, researchers, and practitioners to explore what it truly means to uplift and empower teachers.

Expect inspiring keynotes, engaging panel discussions, and opportunities to connect with fellow educators who share your vision for the future of teaching and learning.

Early Bird Registration

Take advantage of our early bird discount – register by 28 April 2025 to secure your spot at a reduced rate. All tickets include access to both days of the conference and catering for $495 (early bird price is $395).

Professor Guy Claxton

Guy Claxton is an internationally renowned cognitive scientist, author, and educator.

Janelle Riki-Waaka

Janelle Riki-Waaka – Reindigenising Education for Māori Success.

Professor Russell Bishop

Professor Russell Bishop – Culturally responsive teaching and leadership.

Professor Peter O’Connor

Professor Peter O’Connor – Creativity, the arts, and social justice in education.

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Dr Simon McCallum

Senior Lecturer in Software Engineering School of Engineering and Computer Science

Dr Hana O'Regan

Tumu Whakarae | Chief Executive Officer of Core-Ed

Dr. Julia Atkin

Julia Atkin is an education and learning consultant with over 30 years experience in the educational sector

Dr. Michael Johnston

Dr Michael Johnston is a Senior Fellow at the New Zealand Initiative. He leads the workstream on education.

Thursday 30 October – Keynote Speakers & Discussions

Opening Keynote: Professor Guy Claxton
Renowned education thinker Guy Claxton will deliver a one-hour keynote, setting the stage for two days of deep thinking and discussion.

Other featured speakers include*:

*More speakers to be announced soon.

Key Themes:

Uplifting the Profession – Trusting teachers and celebrating their expertise
Silver Linings – Finding optimism and opportunity in education
Empowering Educators – Strengthening teacher agency and professionalism
Diversity in Education – Ensuring equity and inclusion
Te Tiriti o Waitangi – Honouring Te Tiriti and its foundational place in education
Future-Focused Learning – Looking ahead to innovative, evidence-informed approaches rather than returning to outdated models
What is the Purpose of School? – A critical exploration of education’s role

Friday 31 October – Unconference & Special Interest Groups

Building on the ideas and challenges presented by speakers, Friday will be a dynamic, participant-driven day where educators engage in deeper discussion and action planning.

Unconference Sessions – Attendees will propose and lead discussions around key themes, sharing insights and strategies in an informal, collaborative environment.
Special Interest Groups – Spaces for educators to connect around shared areas of passion, from Te Tiriti-based education to innovative assessment practices.
Networking Opportunities – Create meaningful connections with educators, researchers, and advocates from across Aotearoa.

Who Should Attend?

Teachers at all levels, from ECE to secondary
School leaders and policymakers
Researchers and academics
Education advocates and community leaders