📅 1 December 2026 | Zweig Space, European Parliament, Brussels 

Europe has implemented hundreds of education reforms, yet decision-makers often lack comparable evidence about what works, under which conditions and for which groups. Closing this evidence gap is essential if European education and training systems are to respond effectively to persistent inequalities in learning outcomes.

STRIDE is concluding its 36-month investigation into education reforms and interventions aimed at reducing inequalities in learning outcomes across Europe.

On 1 December 2026, the STRIDE Final Conference & Policy Forum will bring this evidence to the European Parliament in Brussels, creating a space for researchers, policymakers, learners, practitioners, education staff and civil society organisations to explore how research can inform action.

Organised as part of Lifelong Learning Week, the annual flagship event of the Lifelong Learning Platform (LLLP), and taking place on the day dedicated to inclusion policies and practices, the conference will examine how longitudinal data and 25 years of education policy analysis can contribute to more democratic, inclusive and resilient learning environments.

From evidence to action

The conference will offer an opportunity to explore STRIDE’s main findings and discuss their implications for European education and training systems, research, policy, and practice.

Participants will explore:

• STRIDE’s major research results, including a unique analysis of 25 years of education reforms and trends in educational achievement across Europe.
• Evidence from different national contexts, including insights from comparative country case studies on effective policy initiatives and interventions to reduce educational inequalities. 
• Policy recommendations and briefs that translate research findings into practical messages for European and national decision-makers.
• New resources for education and training stakeholders, including the STRIDE Digital Toolbox and Interactive Map.

Practical tools for decision-makers and practitioners

STRIDE is not only generating new knowledge. It is also developing practical resources to help stakeholders use evidence in their own work.

The STRIDE Digital Toolbox will support policymakers and education and training stakeholders in examining inequalities through a longitudinal and cross-sectoral perspective.

The Interactive Map of Educational Inequalities and Policy Reforms will enable users to explore patterns of inequality in educational achievement alongside policy responses from across Europe.

During interactive sessions, participants will have the opportunity to engage with these tools, consider how they could be applied in different contexts and share perspectives that can inform their future use.

A meeting point for research, policy and practice

The event will bring together researchers, policymakers, school staff, learners, civil society representatives and other education and training stakeholders.

A high-level Policy Forum will connect STRIDE’s evidence with current and future priorities for equity and inclusion in European education and training. Interactive exchanges will also create space for participants to discuss how research findings can be translated into effective policies and practices at European, national and local levels.

Finally, the conference will offer dedicated networking opportunities, enabling participants to connect with colleagues, experts, and decision-makers working to create more inclusive and resilient learning environments across Europe.

Do you think there might be barriers in the event that might affect your participation? 

Let us know in the dedicated field in the registration form.

This information will be kept in the organising team and will help us organise the event as enjoyable and accessible as possible. 

Participation is free of charge and will take place in person in Brussels.

🔗 Registration is now open: LINK

The full programme will be published soon.