10 – 12 November 2026
|
Dubai World Trade Centre Sheikh Saeed Halls 1, 2 & 3
Gemma Peebles
CEO - Harrison College
Gemma Peebles is the Principal and CEO of Harrison College in Doncaster, a pioneering institution dedicated to empowering young people, particularly those with high-functioning autism, to achieve their full potential. With over a decade of experience in post-16 education, Gemma specialises in challenging education norms and enhancing outcomes for students. As a founding director of Harrison College, Gemma is committed to delivering inclusive, high-quality education and career development opportunities. She also serves as a Non-Executive Director for the Doncaster Chamber of Commerce.
Speaker Sessions
Sustainability & Wellbeing
1610
-
Unlocking Potential: A Post-16 Skills Based, Employer Led Curriculum for Students of Determination
Session Summary:
In an evolving job market, preparing young people for meaningful employment has never been more urgent. But for persons of determination, the transition from education to work is often fraught with barriers—ones that stem not from capability, but from access, opportunity, and inclusion.
Together, we explore how innovative educational models, such as those at Harrison College in Doncaster, UK, are dismantling these barriers and pioneering new pathways to success. By bridging the gap between education and industry, equipping employers with the knowledge to support neurodiverse workers, and designing skills-focused learning experiences, we are redefining what inclusion means in the workforce.
Dubai’s KHDA Education 33 Strategy reflects a global commitment to learner-centric education and the empowerment of diverse talent. Within its framework, we see a strong alignment with Harrison College’s mission: ensuring that every learner, regardless of ability, has the tools and opportunities to build a successful future.
This session will delve into how we can transform education-to-employment strategies, support learners effectively, and equip businesses to embrace a workforce that is not just diverse but empowered. Together, let’s shape an inclusive economy that benefits all.
