In this episode of Let's Go Further, we continue our exploration of equity, diversity and inclusion across the skills and education sector focusing on how art and creativity supports learners development, confidence and accessibility.

With creative subjects historically being squeezed out of the traditional curriculum, this conversation examines how a foundational belief in creativity can empower thought and drive meaningful change. Inspired by the seminal work of Sir Ken Robinson, the discussion highlights why limiting education to just literacy and numeracy risks damaging the future of the economy and stifling innovation.

Host Joe McLoughlin is joined by Annabel Cooke, Co-Chief Executive Officer at the charity Artswork. As Co-Chief Executive Officer, Annabel strives to empower young people to work and lead in the arts and creative sectors. Evelyn, a young person who has directly benefited from the programme, now serves as a member of the Artswork and passionate advocate, helping to shape the future of the charity by ensuring the regular input of young voices into organizational plans.

Together, they explore the realities of turning good policies into good practice, the challenges facing educators and employers in under-pressure sectors, and the opportunities to create lasting, accessible environments that allow young people to thrive in whatever form suits them best.

In this episode of Let's Go Further, we continue our exploration of equity, diversity and inclusion across the skills and education sector focusing on how better support for neurodivergent learners and colleagues can create more inclusive environments for everyone.

With diagnoses of neurodiversity rising across the UK, and recent government plans to reform the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system in England, this conversation examines what meaningful support really looks like in further education and skills.

Host Joe McLoughlin is joined by Emma Eager and Emily Abbott, directors and founders of the Autism Wellbeing Project. Through their work providing therapy, social care, training and accreditation, they aim to raise awareness of autism and challenge misconceptions enabling individuals and communities to thrive.

Together, they explore the realities of turning inclusive policies into everyday practice, the challenges facing educators and employers, and the opportunities to create lasting, positive change for learners, colleagues, and wider communities.

Episode Guests

Emily Abbott

Emily Abbott is the co-founder and director of The Autism Wellbeing Project, bringing an extensive background in social care and a deeply personal connection to autism through her family. She is passionate about creating real opportunities for independence and ensuring autistic people can access the right support that adds value to their lives. Emily is also a trainer for the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training, sharing her knowledge to improve understanding and outcomes across health and social care.

Emma Eager

Emma Eageris also the co-founder and director of The Autism Wellbeing Project and has spent 15 years working as a teacher and leader in primary education and is a qualified counsellor and experienced trainer. She delivers the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training and the wider training offer from The Autism Wellbeing Project. Emma is dedicated to improving outcomes for autistic adults, bringing a mix of humour, honesty and compassion to her work. As someone who is diagnosed with AuDHD, she combines professional expertise with lived experience to create meaningful and relatable learning.

In this episode, we dive into the heart of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) to explore why these aren't just policy buzzwords, but the lifeblood of a thriving Further Education sector. We examine the positive case for strengthening EDI initiatives and discuss why the FE and skills landscape is uniquely positioned to drive social mobility and life-changing results for learners and their communities.

Joining us for the conversation are Ben Blackledge and Tonicha Roberts. Ben is the Chief Executive of Worldskills UK and has a wealth of experience in skills and careers policy. Tonicha is a Forensic Training Manager and Skills Champion who was the first person to represent the UK in the Chemical Laboratory Technology context at WorldSkills events.