Welcome to Doing School Differently 2026!
Get ready to experience a conference that reimagines how school – and professional learning – can be delivered. This event isn’t about sitting and listening; it’s about engaging, exploring, and evolving.
We’re bringing together bold ideas and fresh formats to spark real change. From Insight Sessions that dive deep into transformative practice, to FlexEd talks inspired by the energy of TEDx, and Fireside Conversations that invite honest, informal dialogue. We will share space with young people to privilege and amplify their voices. Doing School Differently is a space for curiosity, creativity, and connection.
We are excited to deliver Doing School Differently on the lands of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation, the Traditional Custodians of Naarm (Melbourne). We recognise their ongoing connection to land, waters and community.
Join us in Naarm (Melbourne) on 4 – 5 June 2026 to add your voice to the conversation.
There’s much to look forward to!
Super Early Bird Tickets are no available – don’t miss out on some great deals
A fantastic line-up of main sessions
Call for Abstracts with a twist are now open
We’re expanding our thinking about how conference sessions are delivered.
We’re not looking for polished lectures or product demonstrations – we’re looking for ideas that spark curiosity, provoke debate, and open up new ways of thinking about school and the lives of young people.
Presenters, it’s time to shine!
We’re inviting you to craft a Press Release that captures the heart of your presentation and connects with this year’s powerful themes. Your press release should sell your session – make it bold, compelling, and impossible to ignore!
We are not seeking sales pitches or product demonstrations. If you are a consultant or business interested in connecting with delegates, we encourage you to please see our Sponsorship Opportunities instead.
We’re also encouraging collaborative submissions: consider a co-authored submission between educators, students, and researchers.
We’re not just reflecting – we’re reimagining.
Day 1 will set a reflective tone, inviting delegates to take stock of the past decade in flexible and inclusive education. We’re uncovering the lessons, challenges, and breakthroughs that have shaped our journey. But this isn’t just about where we’ve been – it’s about where we’re headed.
Day 2 is about transformation. With a bold, transformative lens, we’re stepping into the future of education with purpose, innovation, and vision.
Join us as we explore what’s next.
For the first time, we’re theming our break-out sessions and ask you to contribute to the conversation through the following:
The Doing of School – How can School work well for and with young people?
The Lives of Young People – How are young people shaping – and shaped by – Australian and the world today?
Emergence – what can we learn from Indigenous Knowledges for doing school differently?
Check out our conference website for more information, and details on submission
