IEB Accommodations and Well-Being Conference

IEB Accommodations and Well-Being Conference

26 June 2025 | St Stithians College, South Africa, Dace Hall

The IEB hosted the Accommodations and Well-Being Conference, bringing together professionals from across the education sector to engage in critical conversations around learner support, cognitive processes, and inclusive practices in both school and tertiary environments.

The CEO of the IEB Ms Confidence Dikgole opened the conference with her welcome address, where she affirmed as follows: “At the IEB, we believe assessment should be not only rigorous, but also responsive - Sensitive to diversity, Respectful of mental health, Grounded in human-centred values.”

The programme featured a range of expert presentations and discussions. Professor K Cockcroft from the University of the Witwatersrand spoke on the impact of working memory and processing speed on learner performance. Mr Greg Crighton from St Stithians Boys’ College shared practical insights into the implementation of accommodations at school level, while educational psychologist Claire Maher addressed how anxiety and depression affect learning and assessment.

A panel discussion explored the complexities of accommodation and exemption applications, followed by a joint presentation by Ms Masego Morobane from St David’s Marist Inanda and Ms Robyn Mowatt from the IEB on assessment accommodations in the primary school phase. Dr L Abdool Gafoor (University of the Witwatersrand) and Dr L Jeebodh Desai (University of Johannesburg) concluded with perspectives on tertiary accommodations and promoting a culture of well-being in schools.

Delegates joined both in person and online, reflecting a strong commitment to fostering equitable and supportive learning environments across all levels of education.

We extend our thanks to all presenters, panel members, delegates, and special guests who contributed to the success of today’s event.