The Language of Inclusion and its Impact on the Leadership of Equity within Scottish Secondary Schools

Authors

  • Ruth McConachie Glasgow City Council Education Services Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36399/t87n1c58

Keywords:

language of inclusion, power, leadership of equity

Abstract

Language and power are inextricably linked, and our use of language influences our attitudes, beliefs and values as human beings. This study focuses on how representations of inclusion frame our collective understanding of the term.  It uses Critical Discourse Analysis to analyse how inclusion is represented in key Scottish policies, media headline representations and through professional association discourse.  These different representations contribute to a variance in understanding and the narrative within education about inclusion.  Empirical research was undertaken with head teachers in a case study local authority to consider how these representations feature within their settings, and examine any impact on the leadership of equity. 

Ultimately, language impacts on our attitudes and collective understanding about inclusion. This paper considers how varying attitudes potentially undermine the leadership of equity within secondary schools.

Author Biography

  • Ruth McConachie, Glasgow City Council Education Services

    Ruth McConachie is Headteacher at Whitehill Secondary School in Glasgow.  Ruth was raised and educated in the Highlands of Scotland, relocating to Glasgow to go to university and begin her teaching career.  Initially an English teacher in North Lanarkshire Council, Ruth then moved into the area of Pupil Support, taking on leadership roles in North Lanarkshire and then Glasgow City Council.  Ruth is deeply interested in equity, inclusion and curriculum transformation.  She completed her MEd in Education Leadership through the University of Glasgow’s School of Education in 2024.

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Published

28-02-2025