Conference programme
09:30 Welcome and introduction
09:45 Choosing and Using Quality Children’s Literature to Reflect All Children - Charlotte Hacking, Learning programmes leader, Centre for Literacy in Primary Education
In this keynote, Charlotte will explore the CLPE’s Reflecting Realities report, designed to quantify and evaluate the extent and quality of ethnic representation and diversity in children's publishing in the UK. After an overview of the findings from the last six years of reporting, she will highlight quality texts which will enable children to see their own lives and the lives of others reflected and, through a range of practical activity, look at how such texts can be used in the classroom. This will include how to effectively develop children’s engagement in reading and their wider reading skills, including fluency, comprehension, empathy and critical literacy. The session will also explore how a focus on seeing oneself in literature can impact on children’s engagement and motivation as writers, empowering them to use their own voice and draw on their own experiences in writing.
10:45 Refreshments, networking and exhibition
11:15 A continuation of Charlotte Hacking's session
12:15 Lunch, networking and exhibition
13:30 Every story is a mirror - Tola Okogwu, Award winning children's author
In this keynote, Tola will share her inspiring journey to becoming an author and explore how her books and wider writing serve as both a mirror and a window for her audience. Through her stories, readers see reflections of their own experiences and gain insights into different perspectives and lives.
Tola will take you on an interactive journey, offering a glimpse into the engaging and dynamic atmosphere of her typical school author visits. Be prepared to channel your inner child as you participate in activities that spark imagination and creativity, reminiscent of the way she captivates and inspires young minds.
Join Tola for a session filled with storytelling, creativity, and reflection, and discover how every story can be a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and the world around us.
14:30 Panel discussion - Facilitated by Rebecca Cosgrave - Tola Okogwa, Charlotte Hacking, Tameka Hue-Hamilton
The panel will welcome questions and discussion collected throughout the conference.
15:00 Close of conference
