Communities Come Together for our Great Big Get Together
Last night, Inspire Education Trust proudly hosted our Great Big Get Together at Frederick Bird Academy, bringing together people from across Coventry and Warwickshire to celebrate community, connection and the enduring legacy of Jo Cox.
The event took place on what would have been Jo's 52nd birthday, providing a powerful reminder of her belief that positive change begins when people come together with kindness, understanding and a shared sense of purpose.
Throughout the evening, Jo's famous words, "We are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us," resonated strongly as speakers reflected on the importance of building stronger, more connected communities.
The evening was hosted by Inspire Education Trust's EDI/PD Lead, Gemma Hathaway, who guided guests through a programme of reflection, discussion and celebration. Gemma highlighted the important role schools play in shaping the next generation, helping young people develop empathy, embrace diversity and understand the values that bring communities together.
Inspire Education Trust CEO, Lois Whitehouse, opened the event with a call for us all to celebrate diversity and take collective responsibility for creating inclusive communities where everyone feels they belong.
We were delighted to welcome Rebecca Pawley, Public Affairs and Policy Manager at the Jo Cox Foundation, who spoke about the Foundation's work and the lasting impact of Jo's legacy across the country.
Canon Kate Massey, Coventry Cathedral's Canon for Arts and Reconciliation, highlighted how the Cathedral's international work in reconciliation closely reflects the values at the heart of the More in Common movement.
Guests also heard from Dr Abdullah Shehu MBE DL, who shared how strong communities are built through simple human connections and challenged us all to make active choices for unity in our everyday lives.
Former Blue Coat School pupil Audrey David offered a hopeful perspective for the future, speaking about how Jo's words continue to inspire young people and shape the next generation of leaders and changemakers.
Councillor Kindy Sandhu shared her personal experiences of finding common ground across different communities and the importance of listening, understanding and working together.
Throughout the evening, attendees also enjoyed videos and photos showcasing Great Big Get Together celebrations across our schools. It was lovely to see Students and staff embracing opportunities to connect, celebrate diversity and discover what they have in common with others, bringing the spirit of Jo Cox's message to life in classrooms and communities across our Trust.
The event concluded with a series of interactive activities, including self portraits and pledge cards, where guests committed their time, support or actions inspired by the evening and Jo Cox's vision of a more united society.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special event. And thank you to our catering providers, Angel Hill Food Co, for the delicious food! It was an inspiring evening of reflection, conversation and hope. Together, we celebrated the values that Jo Cox championed and reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring her message continues to shape our schools, our communities and our lives every day.
As we left with new connections, fresh perspectives and pledges for the future, we were reminded that Jo's words remain as powerful today as ever: we are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us.
More about the work of the Jo Cox Foundation
The Great Big Get Together 2026
