We Empower Teachers and Schools to Cultivate Thriving Educational Environments.
- Home
- World Schools Summit
Education at the Crossroads:
Leading the change our world needs
In 2025, the world stands at a crossroads. We must take urgent action to halt runaway climate change, adapt as AI revolutionises our economies, promote peace in the face of destructive conflicts, and tackle the most enduring inequalities. A better world is possible, but only if leaders from across the planet, from governments to businesses, NGOs, academia and tech, recognise that at the heart of all these crucial questions lies education.
That is why the World Schools Summit 2025 brought together key decision-makers and leaders from the world’s best schools to learn from those at the coalface of education and to shape fresh thinking grounded in a shared understanding and ambition for our collective future.
Inside the Summit:
Shaping the future of education
A truly global gathering
Connecting diverse voices and driving collaboration in education
A new Global EdTech prize
Celebrating innovation that transforms learning
Ideas that drive impact
Debates, panels and workshops focused on change
Leading for a better world
500 education leaders from across the world
Programme Overview:
Uniting visionary leaders to shape the future of education
Leaders from across all sectors with a stake in education and the future of our planet came together to share ideas and learn from the principals of the world’s most innovative schools. Those that have triumphed in the World’s Best School Prizes and achieved certification in the Best School to Work programme.
Those that are truly rising to the challenge of building a better world.
2025 Speakers
Meet the speakers
This year’s summit brought together global education changemakers and decision-makers shaping policy, practice, and progress.
Rebecca Winthrop
Co-Author of The Disengaged Teen & Director,
The Brookings Institution
United States of America
Theron 'Neff-U' Feemster
Grammy-Award Winning Songwriter
Producer & Composer
United States of America
Ben Gomes
Chief Technologist, Learning and Sustainability
Google
United States of America
Eunice Ogolo
Director, Girl Capital - Africa
The Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF)
Kenya
Education Leadership
Social Impact
Innovation & Technology
Artificial Intelligence
Future of Higher Education
Education Leadership
Social Impact
Innovation & Technology
Artificial Intelligence
Future of Higher Education
our attendees:
Bringing together changemakers from every corner of education
School leaders and teachers who bring practical insights, share best practices, and provide real-world school experiences to highlight what truly works in education.
Government officials and education policymakers who are shaping national and regional strategies to improve learning outcomes and equity. They share insights on scalable policy interventions and frameworks that support innovative, future-ready education systems.
Industry pioneers and startup founders who bring a fresh perspective on skills development, workforce readiness, and public-private partnerships. They offer solutions to bridge the gap between education and employability in a rapidly changing world.
Advocates and changemakers working on the ground to tackle educational inequality and expand access to quality learning. These leaders bring stories of impact, collaboration, and innovation that inspire sustainable change in communities.
The voices of the next generation—students and youth advocates who are reimagining education and championing causes they care about. They share personal experiences, bold ideas, and powerful calls to action for a more inclusive and relevant education future.
LEADERSHIP COUNCIL:
Shaping global education
Our expert Leadership Council guided the programme of the World Schools Summit, drawing on their decades of knowledge and experience in education and in leading schools.
Paul West
Chief Executive Officer
Spencer Academies Trust
United Kingdom
Blake Spahn
Vice Chancellor
The Dwight & Franklin Schools
United States of America
Ng Yi-Xian
Group Chief Executive Officer
EtonHouse International Education Group
Singapore
Lil Bremermann-Richard
Chief Executive Officer
Oxford International Education Group
United Kingdom
Simon O'Connor
Director
Deira International School
United Arab Emirates
HE Ahmed Taleb Al Shamsi
CEO
Emirates Foundation
United Arab Emirates
Sahar Cooper
CEO
Aldar Education
United Arab Emirates
Vijita Patel
School Principal
Swiss Cottage School
United Kingdom
Dr Angela Meikle
Global Head of IB World Schools
International Baccalaureate Organization
Singapore
Dr. Jesús Jara
Practice Leader, K-12 Global
Prometric
United States of America
Tariq Alhammadi
Country Fleet Services Manager
Emirates Transport
United Arab Emirates
Eunice Ogolo
Director, Girl Capital - Africa
The Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF)
Kenya
Patrick O'Steen
Director, Learner Programs
Microsoft Elevate
United States of America
Michael Fleming
Head of Strategic Initiatives, Learning & Education
Google
United States of America
James Finucane
Chief Financial Officer
Waha Capital PJSC
United Arab Emirates
INTRODUCING:
New to the World Schools Summit 2025
GLOBAL Edtech prize:
We launched the new Global EdTech Prize this year to recognise the trailblazing solutions driving change and addressing the most pressing challenges in today’s classrooms.
After a pitch by the finalists, the winners will be chosen by you, the delegates of the World Schools Summit, and were announced live on stage.
SO GOOD SUMMIT:
In a world changing beyond recognition, we urgently need a new vision for education. We brought together the social impact leaders who will help make that vision a reality at the So Good Summit.
This invitation-only event, held the day before the World Schools Summit, convened up to 100 leaders across education, innovation, social impact, public policy, and business for a series of deep-dives into critical subjects to showcase best practice that drives innovation and progress.
VENUE & HOTELS:
Event location and accommodation details
This year's summit took place at Yasmina British Academy, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
EXHIBITORS AND PARTNERS
Our network of supporters and changemakers
We are grateful to the incredible partners and collaborators who help bring our mission to life. Their support powers our impact across the globe.
WORLD SCHOOLS SUMMIT 2024:
Uncovering the hidden curriculum shaping the future of education
At the 2024 World Schools Summit in Dubai, education leaders from 84 countries gathered to unpack the hidden curriculum—the unspoken lessons that shape values, mindsets, and the future of learning beyond the classroom.
learn more
Frequently asked questions
The agenda is currently being worked on and will be published on our website closer to the event. In the meantime, we encourage you to visit our website to explore the lineup of confirmed speakers: https://t4.education/world-schools-summit/ and other updates.
If an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control -such as natural, political, or other force majeure events- prevents the World Schools Summit from taking place as planned, we will reschedule the event and automatically transfer all registrations to the new date. We will inform all registered participants as soon as possible with updated details. Please note that we are unable to cover any costs related to travel, accommodation, or other expenses resulting from the change.
Unfortunately, the sessions will not be recorded or available for later viewing. We encourage all participants to attend live to benefit fully from the discussions and networking opportunities.
Whilst each participant is responsible for applying for their visa, we are happy to provide a formal letter of invitation to support your application.
If you require this letter, please request it by contacting us at wss@t4.education.
For any questions or assistance, please contact the organising team at wss@t4.education. We’re here to help and will respond as soon as possible.
Before you continue
To ensure you get the most relevant experience at the World Schools Summit, please take a moment to select the ticket type that best reflects your role.
Choosing the right ticket helps us tailor access, sessions, and networking opportunities for you.
Educators
£199.99
AED 1000
For staff at public and private schools and universities including principals, teachers, lecturers, and support or operations teams. Note: Business owners should register as Commercial Operators.
Non-Profit
£499.99
AED 2500
For NGOs, non-profits, philanthropic foundations, think tanks, policy institutes, and advocacy groups focused on education.
Note: For-profit organisations and social enterprises should register as commercial
Commercial Operator
£999.99
AED 5000
For owners, C-suite leaders, and executives of for-profit companies including private school groups, universities, EdTechs, and suppliers. Note: This includes organisations of any size.
Important: Please ensure you select the appropriate category based on your professional role during registration. If the wrong category is chosen, you may be required to complete the registration and payment process again, including covering any price difference.
James Finucane
Chief Financial Officer, Waha Capital PJSC
Mr. James Finucane is the Chief Financial Officer of Waha Capital PJSC, having joined the company in March 2024.
Mr. Finucane joins the Company from Aldar Properties where he served as Group Treasurer for 4 years. Before joining Aldar he worked as treasury and corporate finance manager for Emirates Steel Arkan and also assisted Senaat, an Abu Dhabi Government industrial holding company, with its project financing activities.
Mr. Finucane has over 20 years’ experience in senior finance roles in Europe and the Middle East, with a focus on debt procurement, risk and liquidity management and corporate finance. Mr. Finucane is a Chartered Accountant, having qualified with KPMG Luxembourg.
Tariq Alhammadi
Country Fleet Services Manager, Emirates Transport
Country Fleet Service Manager, recognized for a strong foundation in regulatory monitoring and project management. Skilled in leading large-scale fleet operations, ensuring full compliance with national and industry standards, and driving strategic initiatives that elevate service quality, operational efficiency, and performance excellence.
Dr. Jesús Jara
Practice Leader, K-12 Global
Dr. Jesus Jara is a distinguished education leader, deeply committed to enhancing educational opportunities for students. His tenure as Superintendent of the Clark County School District (CCSD), the nation's fifth-largest, and his roles in other districts have resulted in significant academic achievements. Having arrived in this country from Venezuela as a child and navigating the education system as an English-language learner, Dr. Jara has gained unique insights into the need for inclusive and high-standard educational environments. This background has profoundly influenced his leadership, driving his focus on ensuring equitable access to education and fostering environments that support the success of diverse student populations.
During his five-year Superintendency at CCSD, Dr. Jara led the district to notable achievements, including improved graduation rates, increased participation in Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment programs, and recognition as the National Magnet District of the Year by Magnet Schools of America. Under his guidance, the district also saw significant improvements in mathematics proficiency by introducing a standards-based curriculum. Amid these successes, he adeptly navigated the district through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. For his efforts during his tenure, Dr. Jara was recognized as the 2024 State Superintendent of the Year by the Nevada Association of School Superintendents.
Dr. Jara began his career as a bilingual biology teacher in Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Moving to Springfield, Massachusetts, he then served as principal, where he notably enhanced Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings and improved graduation rates. As Superintendent and Chief Operations Officer in Monroe County Public Schools, Florida, Dr. Jara increased participation and performance in AP and Algebra I courses. In his role as Deputy Superintendent for Orange County Public Schools in Florida, he was pivotal in narrowing the achievement gap faster than 90 percent of major cities across the U.S. And, as Executive Director of the College Board’s Florida Partnership, he coordinated services to bolster equity and access for minority and underrepresented students statewide.
Dr. Jara has also contributed to various community and educational organizations, including serving on the executive board of the Council of Great City Schools and the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance. Dr. Jara holds a Doctorate in Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Eunice Ogolo
Director, Girl Capital - Africa, The Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF)
Eunice Ogolo is a highly experienced development professional based in Nairobi County, Kenya, who currently serves as Director, Girl Capital – Africa at the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF).
In this role, Eunice leads CIFF’s strategic efforts on the continent to transform the lives of adolescent girls and young women: focusing on equitable education access, delaying early pregnancy and child marriage, improving labour‑force participation, and driving norm‑change in communities.
Prior to joining CIFF, she held senior economic development roles at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in Kenya (previously part of the UK’s DFID) including as Economic Development Lead.
Eunice holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Nairobi (2001‑2005) and completed an MBA at the Strathmore Business School / IESE Business School between 2016‑2018.
Her professional strengths include strategic planning, change management and business development across development sectors, with deep expertise in the East African context and in delivering international‑funded programmes that drive social or economic impact.
Eunice is passionate about unlocking the potential of girls and women as drivers of economic growth and social transformation — aligning strongly with CIFF’s mission for Girl Capital to invest in the whole girl: skills, life opportunities, confidence, and agency
Patrick O'Steen
Director, Learner Programs, Microsoft Elevate
Patrick O'Steen leads Microsoft Elevate's global partnerships focused on K-12 teacher skilling, as well as Microsoft's global educator and school community programs. His work centers around building strategic collaborations that empower educators, students, and education leaders with future-ready digital and AI skills. With extensive experience in education and technology, including with his previous work as a high school teacher, Patrick has consistently driven initiatives that support educators, expand STEM opportunities, and foster innovation in classrooms locally and worldwide.
Michael Fleming
Head of Strategic Initiatives, Learning & Education, at Google
Mike Fleming is leader within Google’s Learning & Education team, focused on product strategic and special projects. He currently serves as a pivotal liaison for learning product and program strategy across the company, orienting towards real world impact and outcomes for learners.
With nearly 20 years of experience across business consulting, digital architecture, enterprise technology, and digital transformation, Mike has a unique perspective on cross-functional public-private partnerships to push the bounds of the evolving educational landscape.
As a first-generation college graduate, Mike is deeply passionate about the transformative power that a high-quality education provides. This personal conviction drives his commitment to collaborating with leaders from all facets of the education ecosystem, and works closely with universities, school systems, NGOs, governments and technology providers to cultivate a dynamic and connected educational ecosystem. He champions the innovative application of Google's strengths to expand access to learning globally.
Prior to joining Google, Mike led businesses and teams in various facets of technology, business and financial consulting across several sectors including Education, Finance, Travel, Healthcare, Retail and others. He now lives outside of Chicago with his wife and three children, and spends most of his time away from the office coaching youth sports and spending time in nature to decompress from that.
Paul West
Chief Executive Officer, Spencer Academies Trust
Paul is the Chief Executive Officer of Spencer Academies Trust, an educational charity and one of the UK’s leading academy trusts, operating 26 primary and secondary academies and a designated Teaching School Hub.
Paul’s career includes extensive experience in school and system leadership, having served as a Principal, Executive Principal, and Director in various schools in the UK and internationally. He was registered as an Ofsted Inspector and, in 2011, was recognised as an outstanding system leader through his designation as a National Leader of Education.
In 2012, Paul was invited to participate in the National College for Teaching and Leadership’s flagship Fellowship Programme, working with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to explore curriculum-driven solutions aimed at enabling all children and young people to access learning and progression, thereby supporting social mobility.
Paul has spoken at national conferences on the impact of system leadership and the improvement of educational outcomes and standards through multi-school collaboration. He holds an Executive MBA in Educational Leadership, is a member of the DfE Advisory Board, and a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching.
Blake Spahn
Vice Chancellor, Dwight, Franklin Schools
As Vice Chancellor since 2014, Blake Spahn has oversight of all Dwight and Franklin School operations globally (New York, New Jersey, London, Dubai, Seoul, Shanghai, Hanoi, Dwight Global Online School). His strategic oversight ensures the efficient and effective management of all facilities, systems, and staff in support of Dwight and Franklin’s innovative world-class programs.
Dr. Spahn received his BA and MBA degrees from Columbia University, where he was Captain of their undefeated Men’s Tennis Ivy League championship team. He then went on to obtain Masters and Doctorate degrees in Comparative International Education from Oxford. Author of America and the International Baccalaureate, Dr. Spahn has taught English and philosophy in classrooms in the U.S., U.K., and Japan. In addition to founding Dwight’s Preschool & Kindergarten in New York in 2004, he has had oversight of the London campus for over 20 years.
In 2000, Dr. Spahn co-founded BOOST (Building Opportunities on Student Talent), a non-profit designed to advance prospects for university students in Southern Africa, enabling them to contribute to their own countries’ development. Dr. Spahn was also able to enhance his global vision as a Term Member at the Council on Foreign Relations, to which he was elected in 2005.
Ng Yi-Xian
Group Chief Executive Officer, EltonHouse International Education Group
Mr. Ng took over the reins as Group Chief Executive Officer of EtonHouse International Education Group in 2020, leading a team of over 5,000 staff and providing education to more than 25,000 students across over 100 schools in nine countries. Catering to both local and expatriate families, EtonHouse offers programmes from infant care to high school in both premium and affordable spaces. As a second-generation entrepreneur and son of founder Ng Gim Choo, he is dedicated to taking the group to greater heights. Under his leadership, the brand has expanded, with the creation of Middleton International School, providing affordable international education, and The Eton Academy, which offers high-quality academic enrichment for students from preschool to primary. He is also the driving force behind EtonHouse’s digital transformation, positioning it as a digital-first organisation with innovation at its core. Mr. Ng’s achievements have earned him recognition as one of the winners of The Next ICON Awards 2024 by ICON Singapore, celebrating his outstanding impact on the education landscape.
In his personal life, he enjoys outdoor activities, adventure sports, and is a strong advocate for mindfulness, a value he actively promotes within the organisation. As a father of twin boys and a daughter, Yi-Xian navigates the joys and challenges of parenthood while overseeing the education and well-being of over 25,000 students in EtonHouse schools worldwide.
Lil Bremermann-Richard
Chief Executive Officer of Oxford International Education Group
Lil Bremermann-Richard has been the Group Chief Executive Officer of Oxford International Education Group since 2019, following her role as Group Commercial Director from 2017. Under her leadership, the organization has achieved significant growth, both organically and through acquisitions, and has adeptly navigated substantial business transformations during and post the COVID-19 crisis.
Recently, Oxford International expanded its footprint beyond the UK, USA and Canada, into India and Australia. In India, it partnered with the University of Southampton to launch an international campus in Gurgaon. In Australia, the organization collaborated with the University of Notre Dame and acquired two providers, Universal Higher Education and Universal English, strengthening its regional presence. These initiatives reflect Lil Bremermann-Richard's commitment to broadening the company's global reach and providing diverse educational opportunities.
With over two decades of senior management and leadership experience across various educational sectors—including K12, higher education, apprenticeships, and further education— Lil’s previous roles include, Director of International Recruitment for Cavendish College, Head of International Operations for South Thames College, and most recently, International Director at BPP University and NED at Corndel. During her time at BPP, Lil set up overseas delivery centres in 6 countries, including Hong Kong, China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Trinidad and Tobago, and Mauritius. During her time at Corndel, Lil supported the management team through the development of their Higher Education strategy. Beyond her executive role at Oxford International, Lil also serves as Senior Advisor at Pictet Private Direct Investment and the Council of Indian Principals.
Lil's dedication to gender equality in the workplace is evident through her active mentorship of women in leadership and support for those returning to work post-maternity leave. Her contributions were recognized in 2021 when she received the 'Business Woman of the Year' award at the Education Investor Awards when she delivered her first Private Equity (Bowmark Capital) exit transaction and completed a Management Buy Out of Oxford International with the backing of THI Investments and in 2024, under her leadership, Oxford International Education Group was named one of the U.K.’s top 10 women-powered companies by JP Morgan.
Anna Pons
Project Leader, OECD Schools+ Network
Anna Pons leads the Schools+ Network at the OECD Directorate for Education and Skills. This initiative brings together schools and representatives of policy, evidence and practice to further our understanding of evidence-informed teaching approaches. Previously, Anna led a Video Study that examined how teaching varies across countries and co-ordinated in-depth reviews of the effectiveness and equity of nine education systems in Europe, Latin America and Asia. She also co-authored the report Equity and Quality in Education, which identified system and school-level policies and practices for supporting disadvantaged schools and students. Prior to joining the OECD in 2010, Anna gained work experience in the Catalan government, a local government, and the private sector. Anna holds a BA in Economics and a BA in Political Science from University Pompeu Fabra, and a Master in Economics and Public Policy from Sciences Po, ENSAE and École Polytechnique.
Simon O’Connor
Director of Deira International School, UAE
Simon O’Connor is the Director of Deira International School – an outstanding rated all through UK/IB curriculum school based in Festival City, Dubai. Simon is also Chief of Education for the Al Futtaim Education Foundation (AFEF), working across their portfolio of schools. In 2023 Simon founded the AFEF Centre for Education Action Research (CEAR), which supports practitioner research in schools. This year the centre has over 150 researchers across 15 different schools, looking at a wide range of different elements. Simon has over 25 years of experience in education and joined DIS in August of 2020. Prior to this he was Principal of Jumeirah College, an outstanding school in Dubai, since 2013.
Simon is passionate about learning and ensuring all students are challenged in lessons for them to achieve their full potential. He is also very interested in school leadership and is currently studying for Doctorate with the University of Buckingham, researching the impact of a focus on organisational culture in international schools.
Before moving to the UAE, Simon taught History and Politics for over 20 years in a variety of different school contexts. In his last role in the UK, Simon worked as a school leader in a very successful grammar school in Kent. His role there was curriculum lead and was also responsible for the management of a teaching school and working across an academy chain of schools which he helped to found.
As a student Simon studied for a BA in History and Philosophy at the University of Wales, College of Cardiff where he was a choral scholar at Llandaff Cathedral. He then studied for a PGCE at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he was also a choral scholar. Simon also holds a Master’s Degree in Education Leadership, and a National Professional Qualification for Headship.
HE Ahmed Taleb Al Shamsi
CEO of Emirates Foundation, UAE
His Excellency Ahmed Taleb Al Shamsi is a social impact innovator dedicated to empowering youth through leadership advocacy and the support of grassroots initiatives.
Since 2019, Ahmed has served as the Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Foundation, an initiative of Erth Zayed Philanthropies. The Foundation invests in youth-focused social development and accelerates youth-led initiatives.
Inspired by the vision of the UAE’s founding father, His Highness Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, to empower future generations—and established by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE—the organisation has spearheaded transformative programmes through strategic subsidiaries and joint ventures, establishing itself as a key driver of sustainable social progress.
In addition to his role at Emirates Foundation, Ahmed serves as Director of the National Experts Programme, which equips the next generation of Emirati leaders through an innovative mentorship initiative.
Previously, Ahmed chaired the Abu Dhabi Youth Council. He has also played a pivotal role in major UAE international engagements across diplomacy, culture, and sport, including the Special Olympics, UAE–China Week, Formula 1 Abu Dhabi, and the opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Notably, he was appointed as the UAE’s first UN Youth Ambassador.
Ahmed is recognised as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. He also served as Curator of the Global Shapers Abu Dhabi Chapter.
He holds a degree in International Relations from American University in Washington, D.C., and has pursued advanced training at Oxford University, Harvard University, and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
Sahar Cooper
CEO of Aldar Education, UAE
Sahar brings 25 years of extensive experience in global education management, with the last 19 years spent in the UAE in senior leadership roles. She has served as the Chief Schools Operations Officer at GEMS Education and the Associate Director of Operations at the American University of Sharjah, where she has gained extensive management experience.
Throughout her career, Sahar has excelled in handling large, complex, and multi-site educational projects, and is known for her ability to improve business performance in education through various means. These include operational delivery, supply chain management, risk and governance, health and safety, strategy development and execution, project management, M&A integration, facilities and asset management, talent development, succession planning, and change leadership.
Vijita Patel
School Principal of Swiss Cottage School, UK
Vijita Patel is the Principal of Swiss Cottage School, Development and Research Centre, a large special school for 260 pupils in London. Vijita is passionate about the role of education in developing an equal society, and its fundamental purpose in reducing the marginalisation of pupils with additional needs.
Vijita is an advocate of empowering educators as leaders of learning design, and the responsibility of school leaders in creating school cultures that cultivate teacher agency. She works with school leaders, governors, and Local Authorities as a National Leader of Education. She equally enjoys training early career teachers on the neuroscience of learning. Vijita is a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teachers, and a Trustee for Special Olympics Great Britain, Challenge Partners, and the Artists in Residence Charity.
Swiss Cottage School, DRC was designated as an Apple Distinguished School in September 2021 and has six consecutive Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ Inspection outcomes.
T4 Education
Empowering teachers and schools
Join our community
Join 200,000+ educators and leaders getting peer-to-peer Masterclasses, thought-provoking insights and articles, our monthly newsletter, and more.
Popular topics
Empowering teachers and schools
Copyright © 2026 T4 Education. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy.