Educators from around the world came together for our Virtual Conference, The Power of Connection: Rethinking Student Wellbeing – helping schools support the emotional wellbeing, belonging and connection of students.
Bringing together expert voices from the Global School Alliance community and beyond, the conference explored how meaningful relationships, emotional safety and student voice are central to helping pupils thrive in modern learning environments.
The session featured presentations from two experienced educators and academic leaders, Naseem Khan and Sherly Hephzibah, as well as parenting author and broadcaster, Sue Atkins.
Naseem Khan explored how schools can prioritise emotional wellbeing, belonging and human connection.
Sue Atkins explained how relationships, conversation and everyday connection can support children growing up in an increasingly digital world.
Finally, Sherly Hephzibah shared practical strategies for creating emotionally safe classrooms where students feel seen, heard and valued.
Rethinking Success Through Student Wellbeing
Opening the conference, Naseem covered the growing wellbeing challenges facing pupils today and questioned whether schools are placing too much emphasis on grades and performance at the expense of emotional health.
She highlighted that students are more digitally connected than ever before, yet many feel increasingly isolated. Naseem encouraged educators to focus on developing trusted relationships, and to empower students to find their voice.
Naseem went on to explore the impact of excessive screen time and discussed links between digital overload, anxiety, reduced focus and emotional fatigue.
Supporting Families in a Digital World
Sue explained how families and schools can work together to help children navigate an increasingly digital world with confidence and resilience.
She then focused on the power of everyday moments. Specifically, how simple routines such as families eating together, having uninterrupted conversations and listening without judgement can build resilience and emotional connection over time.
Sue reinforced the idea that connection is not a “soft extra”, but a protective factor that plays a vital role in children’s wellbeing and development.
Creating Classrooms Where Students Feel Seen
Sherly looked at practical strategies educators can use to create emotionally supportive classrooms where students feel genuinely valued and included.
She suggested moving beyond asking students about their academic performance and instead asking a more personal question like “How are you really doing?”
Sherly then shared simple phrases teachers can use to positively shape classroom culture, including “I noticed you were quiet today” and “Your idea matters”, demonstrating how small moments of empathy can have a lasting impact.
Key Takeaways from the Conference
Across all three presentations, one message remained clear: wellbeing grows through connection.
Whether through trusted relationships, meaningful conversations, student voice or emotionally safe classrooms, schools and families play a vital role in helping children feel connected, supported and valued.
Conferences like this provide valuable opportunities for educators to share ideas and learn from best practice.
To contribute your ideas and expertise to a future event, you can register as Global Contributor here.
To join our upcoming Virtual Conferences, browse all events here.
MORE ABOUT OUR MAY VIRTUAL CONFERENCE SPEAKERS
Naseem Khan
Naseem Khan is an educator and academic leader with over 15 years of experience across CBSE, ICSE, and international learning environments in India. She has worked extensively in academic leadership, student engagement, and holistic education, with a strong interest in student wellbeing, global citizenship, and future-ready learning.
Sue Atkins
Parenting Author | Broadcaster | International Keynote Speaker | President: Montessori UK | Host of the “Navigating the Digital Jungle” podcast | Supporting families and educators in today’s digital world
Sue’s website | Sue on X | Sue on Instagram | Sue on TikTok | Sue on Facebook | Sue on LinkedIn | Sue on Pinterest | Sue on YouTube
Sherly Hephzibah
Educator | TEDx Organiser/Speaker | Academic Leader
Passionate about reimagining education through connection, student voice, emotional wellbeing, and reflective learning experiences.
