As discussions around curriculum reform gain momentum, how can we ensure that civic education is at the heart of children’s learning?

Join us for an engaging, interactive workshop exploring key findings from a three-year ESRC-funded study on active civic education in primary schools. This research, rooted in children's rights, highlights how schools can empower young people to develop civic understanding, amplify their voices, and take meaningful action in their communities.

Through surveys with over 2000 primary schools, interviews with over 100 teachers, and in-depth case studies in 9 primary schools with teachers, school leaders, and over 270 children, the study reveals:

The transformative power of civic learning – fostering confident, engaged young citizens while strengthening school communities.

The role of schools as hubs of civic action – providing crucial support beyond the classroom but facing sustainability challenges.

Barriers to equity – how access to civic learning opportunities varies and what we can do to close the gap.

This workshop invites educators, school leaders, and organisations working with young people to reflect on these findings, share experiences, and explore the next steps for embedding participatory civic education in schools.

------------------------------------------------------------

Bio: Dr Ali Body is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Kent and Head of Impact, Insights, and Research at Global Action Plan. With a background in children’s charities, early intervention, and youth participation, she has led a major children’s charity, worked in strategic third-sector development, and served as a Commissioner of early intervention services at Kent County Council.

Her research explores philanthropy, the third sector, and the role of children and young people in charitable giving, voluntary action, and co-production. She has authored numerous publications, including two books, Children’s Charities in Crisis: Early Intervention and the State (2020) and Children as Change-Makers: Unleashing Children's Real Philanthropic Power (2024).

Passionate about nature and community conservation, Ali is also a founding director of Led by the Wild CIC, engaging children, young people, and communities in hands-on environmental education, action and nature restoration.