For the second consecutive year, Ms Lopresti (Head of Classics) and Mrs Peretto (school invigilator and former Head of Drama) were elected as delegates for Reading, representing the district at the National Education Union (NEU) 2026 Conference, held this year in Brighton.

Over the course of four days, they took part in the union’s democratic processes, voting on a wide range of motions that will shape and guide NEU policy for the coming year. Central to many of these discussions was a shared commitment to ensuring equitable, high-quality education and safeguarding the rights and wellbeing of both students and educators.

The conference programme was further enriched by a series of fringe events and workshops held during lunchtimes and evenings. Ms Lopresti chose to attend sessions focused on international solidarity, hearing from speakers representing countries affected by authoritarian regimes and conflict. These discussions highlighted the challenges faced by educators and students in such contexts, as well as the NEU’s ongoing work to support fellow education unions worldwide. A recurring theme was the fundamental importance of freedom, thought, expression and access to education as a cornerstone of both personal development and democratic society.

Mrs Peretto’s highlight was witnessing the powerful role of creativity, particularly music, in fostering community, strengthening international solidarity and nurturing a shared sense of humanity. The conference reinforced the importance of maintaining a strong presence for the arts in schools, not only for cultural enrichment but also for the wellbeing of both students and staff.

It was both inspiring and humbling to be among so many educators committed to advocating for meaningful change, working collectively to ensure that students across the UK and beyond receive the education they deserve.