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In December 2024, the Department for Education (DfE) established an Expert Advisory Group for Inclusion (EAG), led by Tom Rees, to advise the Secretary of State for Education and the Minister of State for School Standards on how to drive inclusive education practice in mainstream settings.

Michelle Dowse, CEO and Principal of Heart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) joined the EAG in June 2025 as the board entered its second phase of work with a focus on supporting the generation and mobilisation of research and best practice evidence to enable the implementation of high-quality inclusive education.

The EAG use their collective expertise to advise Ministers on how to improve mainstream education experiences and outcomes for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The group’s priorities include:

- Promoting inclusive classroom practice and culture

- Improving the early identification of children with SEND

- Enhancing additional support in mainstream settings

- Strengthening workforce expertise and capability

• Establishing the right conditions and incentives for inclusion

Michelle joins a panel of sector leaders including representatives from multi-academy trusts, local authorities, and universities. Tom Rees, CEO of Ormiston Academies Trust is the group chair, with Dame Christine Leneham serving as Strategic Advisor on SEND.

Michelle Dowse, CEO & Principal at HoW College, said: “I am honoured to contribute to this important national work focused on improving the inclusion and outcomes for children and young people with SEND. At HoW College, we are passionate about creating learning environments where every student can succeed and feel supported. Being part of this expert group provides the opportunity to share insights from further education.”