Sheila Riddell

Prof. Sheila Riddell is a leading academic at the University of Edinburgh, serving as Director of the Centre for Research in Education Inclusion and Diversity (CREID) within the Moray House School of Education and Sport. Her research focuses on equality, social inclusion, children's rights, and special/inclusive education policies across Europe. She previously led the Strathclyde Centre for Disability Research at the University of Glasgow.

Her work examines topics such as disability rights, gender equity, socio-economic disparities in education, and the implementation of policy frameworks for children with additional support needs (ASN). Notable projects include studies on higher education accessibility, lifelong learning, and the impact of legislation like Scotland’s Additional Support for Learning Act.

Riddell has contributed to over 220 scholarly outputs, including books, chapters, and peer-reviewed articles. Recent research highlights include analyses of children’s rights in Roma education, the role of technology in inclusive education, and the evolving paradigms of rights for children with disabilities. She actively engages with policymakers through advisory roles and media commentary on issues like declining coordinated support plans (CSPs) and disparities in special needs provision.

Her projects often focus on cross-border comparisons (e.g., England vs. Scotland) and involve collaborations with institutions like the European Union. Grants include ESRC-funded initiatives exploring children’s autonomy and rights, and EU-funded projects promoting lifelong learning for marginalized groups.

Riddell’s media contributions provide expert commentary on policy challenges, such as the underrepresentation of disadvantaged groups in special needs support systems and the impact of austerity on educational equity. Her work bridges academic research with real-world policy impact, emphasizing systemic barriers to inclusion.