SAALED Seminar 2026 Post Event

SAALED Annual Seminar 2026: Boundaries with Heart 

25 June 2026 | Dainfern College, Johannesburg

“When relationships come first, boundaries become acts of care rather than control.” This sentiment beautifully captured the essence of the 2026 SAALED Annual Seminar, where South African educators gathered to explore how meaningful relationships and clear expectations work together to create learning environments in which both students and teachers can flourish.

Held on 25 June 2026 at Dainfern College, Johannesburg, the annual seminar once again fulfilled SAALED’s commitment to providing high-quality professional development that addresses relevant and contemporary topics for teachers and educational leaders across all contexts of South African education. The day offered delegates the opportunity to engage with leading voices in education, reflect on current practice and leave equipped with practical strategies to strengthen teaching and learning.

This year’s theme, “Boundaries with Heart,” invited educators to reconsider the role of boundaries, not as barriers, but as opportunities to build trust, belonging and meaningful relationships. Throughout the day, a common thread emerged: effective education is rooted in authentic human connection. As Professor Jonathan Jansen so powerfully described it, this is a “pedagogy of love”, an approach that recognises that care, respect, and high expectations are inseparable from meaningful learning.

The seminar featured three acclaimed speakers, each bringing a unique perspective and a wealth of expertise:

Julia Dunn challenged educators to move from control to connection, encouraging schools to rethink traditional approaches to boundaries and behaviour management. Her presentation demonstrated how clear expectations, when grounded in strong relationships, create classrooms where students feel safe, respected, and ready to learn.

Professor Jonathan Jansen inspired delegates with a thought-provoking presentation on the empirical correlates of a pedagogy of love. He reminded educators that relationships are not an addition to education, they are at its very heart. His message encouraged teachers to lead with empathy, courage and purpose while maintaining the high standards that enable every learner to succeed.

Stuart West explored the power of affirmation, belonging and possibility, sharing practical insights into how schools can intentionally create cultures where every student feels valued, connected, and capable of achieving their potential.

Each presenter is highly respected within the education sector, offering evidence-informed perspectives alongside practical advice and solutions that educators could immediately apply within their own contexts.

In addition to the inspiring programme, delegates had the opportunity to engage with a range of educational vendors showcasing the latest learning materials, resources, and innovative products to support teaching and learning. The exhibition provided valuable opportunities to explore new ideas, connect with suppliers and discover resources that enhance classroom practice.

The 2026 SAALED Annual Seminar once again demonstrated the value of bringing educators together to learn, reflect and grow. As schools continue to navigate an ever-changing educational landscape, the seminar served as a powerful reminder that when relationships are nurtured with care, boundaries become a foundation for belonging, growth and meaningful learning.