Building trust and safety in the classroom

Monday 12 May 9.30-12.30

A classroom where students, and you as an educator, feel safe to share thoughts and emotions is key to meaningful discussions and strong academic performance. But how do you balance openness with high expectations?

This interactive workshop explores the link between psychological safety and high-performance standards, drawing on Amy Edmondson’s research and your own real-life experiences.

You’ll gain practical strategies to:

• Encourage open discussions while upholding academic rigour
• Approach sensitive topics like geopolitical conflicts, personal vulnerability, and cultural differences with confidence
• Create a learning environment where students feel both supported and challenged

Through hands-on exercises and real-world scenarios, you’ll discover techniques to build trust, engagement, and resilience in the classroom.

About the trainer

Laurence van der Vuurst of Downsideup Academy will lead this session. With over 15 years of experience training and guiding teams in a variety of settings, he brings valuable expertise in group dynamics and effective communication.

Accessibility
At EDLAB, we strive to make our activities as accessible as possible and do our best to make accommodations when possible. You will have the opportunity to indicate any accessibility requirements after registration.

Costs
EDLAB is currently offering all CPD activities free of charge. Please note however that we have paid to develop and offer this session together with the trainers, so if you sign up but cannot attend, we would greatly appreciate it if you could give us at least 5 days’ notice so that we can advertise your spot to others who may be interested. Cancellation without at least 5 days’ notice or failure to show up may result in your department being charged the full cost price.

EDLAB reserves the right to postpone this event should a minimum of 6 participants not be reached.

Activity full or can’t make this date? Then sign up for the waiting list and we’ll let you know as soon as this event is scheduled again.