This keynote introduces Inclusion by Design — a research-informed backward planning framework that positions inclusion not as an add-on or adjustment, but as the foundation of curriculum design. Drawing on Dr Tom Porta’s mixed-methods research with teachers across Australia this session demonstrates how inclusive practice becomes sustainable when we deliberately design curriculum, assessment, and teaching with student diversity in mind from the outset. This session will walk participants step-by-step through the five stages of the Inclusion by Design framework.
Dr Tom Porta is the Director of Secondary Programs and Lecturer in Education in the School of Education at the newly created Adelaide University. He was previously the Director of the Master of Education Program and prior to academia, was a schoolteacher and leader for the past decade. Tom has an emerging record of international publications in inclusive education and inclusive pedagogies. In particular, he is known for his research on differentiation, which aims to strengthen the way teachers cater to student diversity in their classrooms. His passion lies in helping teachers to become confident in developing and implementing inclusive teaching practices. Author of three books, Tom has won a range of teaching and research awards including the Australian Council of Educational Leaders New Voice in Educational Leadership Research Award for 2025. He is the recipient of the University of Adelaide’s Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics Executive Dean’s Excellence in Individual Teaching (Early Career) Award, including the Dean’s prize, and the recipient of the 2025 School of Education Research Award. Tom is currently on the Editorial Board for the Journal of Research in Special Educational Needs (JORSEN) and Board Director at St Dominic’s Priory College in Adelaide.
An engaging three-day event you won't want to miss.