Working Groups

The NATE Working Groups are committed to supporting English teachers through innovative, inclusive, and research-driven approaches across various aspects of the subject. Each group focuses on a distinct area, working collaboratively to address key challenges and offer resources for educators.

Valerie Coultas and Stuart Scott lead the Multicultural and Diversity group, which champions inclusive teaching by promoting diverse literature and interactive learning that engages students from all backgrounds. Furzeen Ahmed and Lesley Nelson-Addy head the Reviewing Literature group, advocating for a curriculum that pairs canonical texts with contemporary works, offering broader perspectives for students and teachers alike. Kathryn Brereton leads the Primary group and Josh Roy leads the Secondary group, both of which provides practical strategies and resources to meet the demands of English classrooms in each phase.

Emma Stott oversees the Assessment group, which examines how to balance creativity with fair and effective assessment practices, while Elmina Ferguson heads the Post-16 and Higher Education group, focusing on progressive pathways that bridge A-level studies with higher education. The Initial Teacher Education (ITE) group, led by Emily Henry, supports teacher educators by fostering collaboration and reflective practice in training new teachers.

Caroline Godfrey leads the Language group, dedicated to raising the profile of language study within the English curriculum and promoting approaches that foreground sociolinguistics, stylistics, and other aspects of language work that are often overlooked and encouraging teachers to explore how language shapes identity, communication, and meaning. Lucy Kelly directs the Wellbeing group, addressing mental health and wellbeing for both teachers and students, promoting strategies to cultivate positive and supportive learning environments. Finally, Matt Ingram leads the newly formed LGBTQI+ group, members of which are currently discussing the changes they’d like to see and the initial actions they can take.

Together, these working groups reflect NATE’s dedication to advancing English education through inclusive practices, diverse perspectives, and ongoing professional support.

Posts from our Working Group members

How to become a language noticer

How to become a language noticer

English teachers are often cast as pedantic grammar police, silently correcting everyone around them. But…
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Why GCSE English Language could be so much better with some actual language.

Why GCSE English Language could be so much better with some actual language.

Historically, the overlooked younger sibling of English Literature, English Language now fully deserves to be…
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Ten books about English Language you should read

Ten books about English Language you should read

In light of forthcoming curriculum changes that could place greater emphasis on English Language, Caroline…
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The NATE ECT Network — your space to grow, connect, and thrive as an Early Career Teacher

The NATE ECT Network — your space to grow, connect, and thrive as an Early Career Teacher

A free, supportive network for Early Career English teachers, offering space to reflect, collaborate, and…
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