Programme:
09:30 – 09:45 Welcome and Introductions
09:45 – 10:45 Keynote 1 Poet & Author, Coral Rumble
10:45 – 11:45 Workshops
11:45 – 12:00 Break
12:00 – 13:00 Keynote 2 Professor Robin Banerjee
13:00 – 13:10 Closing remarks and end of conference
Workshops:
A. Sam Lovatt – St Mary’s University, Twickenham
Why do we still need to learn to write? Perceptions of Generative AI from the classroom
This session will share the findings from a research project conducted in both primary and secondary schools about both student and teacher attitudes to Generative AI, as well as how they are using the tool. Then, we will explore English specific challenges with this new technology and discuss the question ‘Why do we still need to learn to write?’ in a world where AI tools can produce prose in seconds. The session will end with some English specific examples of how these tools can be used creatively to support teaching and learning.
You can find them at: X: @smlovatt
This session is aimed at all attendees.
B. Sarah Mears– EmpathyLab
Building a culture of empathy through reading
We will explore what empathy is, theories of how reading builds empathy, the link between empathy, reading and oracy through book talking and finally practical strategies and activities for maximising the empathy-boosting impact of reading
You can find them at: www.empathylab.uk X: @EmpathyLab.uk
This session is aimed at primary attendees.
C. Jo Head & Karen Fox – St Mary’s University, Twickenham
What can we learn from the Early Years?
Participants will take part in a workshop that uses the pedagogy of the Early Years to develop creativity and enjoyment in reading and writing. Participants will be invited to consider how the principles discussed can contribute to a literacy for pleasure curriculum in KS1 and KS2.
You can find them at: @SIMMSPriEnglish https://www.stmarys.ac.uk
This session is aimed at primary attendees.
D. Julie Blake – Poetry by Heart
The Power of “Poetry by Heart” – Inspiring a Lifelong Love of Poetry
In this session, you’ll learn how Poetry by Heart can transform poetry learning, making it enjoyable and empowering. We will consider how interpretation and recitation can be a way to celebrate pupils’ unique voices, build oracy skills and embed a lifelong love for poetry. Drawing on recent research and findings from our Pupil Voice survey, we’ll share valuable insights into how pupils experience and benefit from this approach, including enhanced literacy skills, empathy development, and a greater appreciation of poetic expression. We’ll explore video content and resources to help implement this approach in your own teaching, fostering enthusiasm and engagement amongst pupils of all backgrounds and abilities.
You can find them at: https://poetrybyheart.org.uk/ Threads @pbhcompetition X: @poetrybyheart
This session is aimed at all attendees.