With a lively atmosphere and a central city location, our summer conference is the ideal place to refresh your practice, deepen your subject knowledge, and feel energised by thoughtful discussion
We’re delighted to announce more details about this year’s NATE Conference, at which we’re bringing together an exciting range of English teachers, researchers and subject leaders to explore some of the most pressing and interesting topics today. The conference is hosted by the University of Manchester and takes place on Tuesday 7th July.
Shakespeare, drama and interpretation
Tom Davey will share rehearsal room approaches to Shakespeare, while Michelin Caffrey will explore drama-based strategies developed through work with Shakespeare’s Globe. Martin Illingworth and Mick Connell will offer ways of moving Shakespeare teaching from fear towards curiosity, and Zarina Seaton and Isobel Wilkinson will examine how broader textual and contextual connections can deepen interpretation. Alongside these sessions, Larraine Harrison will explore drama strategies for reading comprehension more broadly, highlighting the role that participation and performance can play in helping students make meaning from texts.
Tom Davey of Bright Torches leads a drama workshop
Talk, oracy and critical thinking
The importance of talk runs throughout the programme. Ruth Newman will examine how repertoires of classroom discussion can support students’ understanding of writing, Sarah Davies will explore talk as a route into critical thinking, and Vincent Byrne will consider the role of oracy both within English and across the wider life of the school. Elmina Ferguson and Angus Wright‘s session on views and perspectives will explore how pupils develop confidence, independence and a stronger critical voice through discussion and literary response.
Creativity, writing and literary response
Joseph Minden will explore the use of exploratory journalling alongside the Power and Conflict poetry cluster, while Lorna Smith will consider creative approaches to poetry teaching and their implications for classroom practice.
Christopher Hanley will examine creative writing in relation to the natural world, encouraging observation and imaginative engagement, while Debs Taylor will explores multi-genre responses to literature as a way of encouraging inquiry and deeper personal connection with texts.
Diversity, community and wider perspectives
Questions of diversity, representation and social responsibility also shape several parts of the programme. Chinenye Egbuna Ikwuemesi will introduce Yoruba, Igbo and Akan storytelling traditions, broadening literary and cultural perspectives within English teaching. Katherine Barber will explore approaches to decolonising and diversifying the curriculum that move beyond simply changing reading lists. Robert Hyland and Jessica De Waal will consider the relationship between English, sustainability and community, asking how the subject can engage meaningfully with wider social and environmental concerns.
Progression, transition and student development
Laura Spargo will explore continuity and progression in the transition from Key Stage 2 to Key Stage 3, while Sophie Sheehan will examine how crucial concepts can support progression while also encouraging more thoughtful and adventurous approaches to assessment. Caroline Godfrey will explore how linguistics and language study can enrich classroom practice and strengthen students’ understanding of English.
Book your ticket today
Tickets are exceptional value for money at £25 for trainees and ECTs, £35 for NATE members and £45 for non-NATE members. Refreshments, lunch, and access to a wide range of great exhibitor stalls are included throughout the day, at which registration starts from 9am.
The day’s sessions will conclude at 3.30pm, at which point delegates are warmly invited to stay for a drinks reception and the NATE Awards, sponsored by Pearson.