Critical Education Policy Summer School Sparks Dialogue on Social Transformations

In February, more than 40 graduate researchers and leading scholars from around the world came together for the 2025 Critical Education Policy (CEP) Summer School, a dynamic three-day program exploring the future of education policy research.

Held from 11–13 February at Lawson Lodge in the Macedon Ranges, on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung, Dja Dja Wurrung, and Taungurung peoples, the event created space for deep engagement with critical policy theories, methods, and challenges. Participants included Australian and international doctoral students working across areas such as Indigenous, climate and sustainability, and AI education policy futures.

Led by convenors Professor Marcia McKenzie (University of Melbourne) and Professor Kalervo Gulson (University of Sydney), the program combined expert-led seminars, collaborative workshops, and informal networking opportunities. Across the three days, students explored new approaches to policy research and had the chance to engage directly with scholars shaping the field.

Sessions covered a wide range of topics, including critical theories of policy, methodology in education research, and how to navigate the relationship between policy and practice. Summer school staff included Dr Matthew Keynes, Dr Elisa Di Gregorio, Associate Professor Sarah Truman, Professor Jessica Gerrard, Associate Professor Anna Hogan, Professor Radhika Gorur, Dr Tebeje Molla, Professor Melitta Hogarth, Dr Eve Mayes, Ms Nicola Chopin, Associate Professor Carlo Perrotta, and Professor Sam Sellar.

Time was also set aside for creative thinking and future-mapping, with participants contributing to an “idea gallery” and sharing insights on the directions they hope to see critical policy research take in years to come.

“The summer school provided an avenue for PhD students to share our research struggles in critical ed policy with experienced professionals to learn from their expertise. I was also thrilled about the interactive activities and great location off campus, which made it really easy to blend and interact with fellow students and staff alike,” said Rita Adjei, PhD in Education candidate at the University of Melbourne.

The Summer School was supported by the AARE Politics & Policy Special Interest Group, the Monitoring and Evaluating Climate Communication and Education (MECCE) Project, the Education Futures Studio at the University of Sydney, and the Faculty of Education at the University of Melbourne.

Organisers hope the event will return in 2027 and continue to nurture practical knowledge and insights in researchers, to strengthen their work in critical education policy and foster ongoing collaboration and development in the field.

With thanks to Camille Rose Carl Mendoza and Stefanie Mallow, PhD candidates in the School of Teaching and Education, for their writing contributions to this article.