Professor Haili Hughes
Member of the GEC Circle of Influence
Bio:
Professor Haili Hughes is Director of PD at All Saints MAT and a professor of coaching and mentoring with a passion for social justice and curriculum equity. She works closely with schools to support professional learning and evidence-informed teaching. Haili previously spent over 15 years in the classroom and held leadership roles including Head of English and Assistant Principal. She is the author of several acclaimed books, including Mentoring in Schools and Preserving Positivity, and regularly writes and speaks on teacher development, working-class representation in education and recruitment and retention of teachers. A proud Northerner and first-generation university graduate, she is committed to amplifying diverse voices and supporting educators to create meaningful, transformative learning experiences for all students.
Areas of specialism:
Coach, mentor, educator, author, speaker, lecturer
Social channels:
Useful links:
GEC Circle Contributions: Strengthening the GEC Framework:
Professor Haili Hughes, a respected leader in teacher development and a founding member of the GEC Circle, has significantly shaped the evolution of the GEC Framework through her ongoing research, practice, and voice. Her work consistently champions the professional and personal wellbeing of educators, aligning with the GEC’s mission to build intentional inclusion across the education system.
In the 26,000 Voices: What Students and Staff Really Think About Inclusion report, Professor Hughes delivered the opening to the flexible working section: “Flexible Working as the Tipping Point for Retention.” Her thought-provoking commentary highlighted flexible working as a structural solution to retention and equality—not simply a lifestyle benefit. Her insights helped reframe leadership narratives and elevate flexible working as an essential component of inclusive workforce strategies.
Beyond the report, Professor Hughes has contributed rich video content through the GEC Book Club, hosted on the GEC Platform, offering practical advice and evidence-informed strategies to educators and leaders. These videos have supported professional learning in schools and trusts, reinforcing the connection between research, teacher voice, and everyday practice. Her focus on workload, trust, and gender equity complements the GEC Framework’s dimensions and offers actionable inspiration for change.
As a public academic and advocate, Professor Hughes continues to strengthen the GEC’s evidence base, amplify diverse staff voices, and support leaders in building inclusive cultures where both staff and students can thrive.
