Venue: Wellington College
Date: Wednesday 11th February 2026
Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Facilitator: Karen Taylor, Head of Educational Research The Bridge and Associate Professor in Practice, Durham University School of Education
Developed at The Bridge, this workshop deconstructs the relationship between emotion and cognition and explores modes of communication and pedagogical practices that support education for interpersonal and intercultural understanding in diverse classroom settings.
- How does the way we feel influence our awareness of self and others?
- How do we harness this for an improved school culture?
- How do we deliberately connect emotion to cognition?
Research in affective neuroscience demonstrates the interdependence of emotion-based and cognitive neural processes. Yet emotions are not universal, rather they are shaped by cultural contexts, influencing how students (and teachers) express and regulate emotions in learning environments. Recognizing the role of emotions in learning offers the possibility of designing more effective learning environments that enhance cognitive engagement while contributing to social justice by fostering inclusive and equitable classrooms.
Aims of the workshop include:
- Critically reflecting on how one’s personal and social identity informs pedagogical practices, curriculum and course development
- Communicating effectively and productively with students on the impact of identity constructs on the classroom environment
- Creating inclusive classroom environments that draw intentionally and positively from the diversity of the student population to support learning and critical thinking
- Implementing innovative pedagogical practices and approaches that promote constructive dialogue around difficult topics.
This face-to-face workshop can be held over one full day or in 3-4 separate sessions. The first session may be offered online as appropriate.
Session 1 – Emotion and cognition
- Brief introduction to research on emotion and cognition
- Learning Principles
- Climate factors
- Activity and discussion
Session 2 – Using language
- Reading non-verbal communication
- Non-violent communication
- Speaking and listening
- Activity and discussion
Session 3 – Embracing ambiguity
- Teacher self-efficacy
- Pedagogy of discomfort
- Accepting vulnerability – teachers and students
- Giving students voice, choice and agency
- Discussion and case study activity
Session 4 – Individual or small group coaching session (Optional)
Attendee Fee
This one day course costs £130 and includes refreshments and lunch.
The Bridge offer a 50% discount to all state/maintained schools and an 80% discount to Wellington College Learning Alliance and Forest Learning Alliance Schools. Course costs are as follows:
- WCLA and FLA Schools – £26 per person
- Maintained/State Schools – £65 per person
- Independent Schools/All other attendees – £130 per person
Registration and Booking