The day will focus on inspiring children to read for pleasure, approaches to reading choices, being creative with books and reading strategies that raise attainment. Throughout the day there will be opportunities to share good practice.
The conference will be chaired by the Guardian’s children’s books editor Julia Eccleshare.
Alex Wheatle, MBE, author of Brixton Rock, East of Acre Lane, Island Songs, Brenton Brown, The Dirty South, Liccle Bit and winner of the Guardian Children’s fiction prize 2016 for Crongton Knights will discuss writing for teenagers. Candy Gourlay (Shine and Tall) will explain how becoming an author is a Hero’s Journey and how a delight in writing can be nurtured.
Mark Warner, assistant headteacher, will discuss how innovative reading for pleasure initiatives have transformed teaching and learning at Patcham High School. There will be sessions led by speakers as well as good practice workshops on reading for pleasure in schools from the British Library Learning team and Book Trust.
The conference will explore:
- Ideas for promoting enjoyment and engagement in reading.
- Raising achievement.
- Strategies to encourage whole school wider reading.
- The writing process and what makes a good children’s book.
- Strategies to include a diverse range of voices in the classroom.
- Being creative with books.
- Sharing good practice.
- Working with organisations that promote a love of reading.
- Resources, ideas and tips that can be used in the classroom.
The conference will take place at the Guardian offices at Kings Place, 90 York Way, London, N1 9GU.
Great value at £96 (including VAT) which includes lunch and resources.
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Feedback from previous conferences
A really excellent, super engaging day.
I have come away with a barrowload of ideas.
It has rejuvenated my belief in the power of reading for pleasure.
Got lots of ideas, inspiration and knowledge. Great pace and the practical sessions were very good.
Very useful in terms of classroom practice and new ways of getting children to read.
It was excellent. I have practical ideas so I can plan and support reading for pleasure - thank you.
Loved the informality - not too daunting. I loved it.
