The Devon Virtual School is proud to host its annual conference, bringing together professionals from education, social care, and partner organisations to strengthen support for children in care. This year’s them centers on collaboration, compassion, and creating impactful change through shared expertise and lived experience from the young person’s voice.

This dynamic event offers a rich programme of expert-led keynotes, interactive workshops, and cross-sector networking opportunities, all designed to empower designated teachers and carers with the tools, insights, and inspiration needed to champion the educational and emotional wellbeing of looked-after children.

Keynote speakers

• Nick Barwick – "Through the Kids’ Eyes"

Nick Barwick, a powerful advocate and speaker, will share his personal journey through the care system. In his keynote, "Through the Kids’ Eyes", Nick offers a journey through foster care and education that delivers a raw and informative story on survival, legacy, and achievement. Every child is one caring and trusted adult away from being a success.

• Sam Gardner - "What I wish my teacher knew"

Drawing on his lived experience of growing up in care and his background as a primary school teacher, Sam Gardner takes audiences inside the emotional reality behind behaviour, instability and mistrust. Through honest storytelling and practical reflection, he explores what children may be communicating beneath the surface and how the everyday responses of adults can shape safety, trust and belonging. 

Conference programme

View the full programme here