The Difference

Who we are

Our Vision

The past does not have to determine the future. The Difference is a new education charity, founded to improve the life outcomes of the most vulnerable children by raising the status and expertise of those who teach them.  By 2030 we want a new story on school exclusion:

1. People - The best teachers working with the children who need them most – A third of the 350 schools for excluded pupils in the country have a Difference Leader leading improved practice and outcomes for excluded children in their setting. 
2. Practice - An evidence base of what works with the most vulnerable – Specialist professional development from The Difference has shaped the strategic approach that over 1,000 of the 3,500 secondary schools nationally take to Inclusion, leading to lower incidence of school exclusion and improving the safety, wellbeing and learning of all pupils. Life outcomes beyond exam results are becoming better measured and valued, as is the multi-agency and relationship-informed work in schools which underpins them.
3. Policy/Perception - A movement of ethical, inclusive leadership influencing the school system – A cadre of Difference alumni, partners and advocates are shifting the national culture in schools. Their work is shared and amplified by The Difference.  Incentives and opportunities for schools to meet the wellbeing, safeguarding and learning needs of all children are improving, through local and national policy.