9:30
Registration and arrival refreshments with the chance to view an art exhibition hosted by WEA tutor, Nicola Tarlton-Weatherall
10:00
Welcome and opening address with WEA General Secretary and CEO Simon Parkinson
10:30-11:20
Workshop block one options
- Introduction to advocacy
Join members of the WEA’s Charitable Purpose Team to understand more about how we campaign to protect adult learning, and learn the skills and tools to help you to fight for it too.
- New voices, new perspectives
How can the WEA champion the next generation of scholars who are shaping our understanding of education and its impact? Whether you’re just starting out on your academic journey or a well-seasoned professor, join us in a lively discussion designed to spark new ideas and initiatives to support academics within the WEA community.
- Poetry with Ione
Every day is poem – come along and listen to poems, read poems and turn your present moment into a poem. WEA tutor Ione Harris is a polyglot, poet, performer and a yoga practitioner. She loves sharing her passion with others through facilitation. She has been working for the WEA for three years and loves her job.
- RCP site tour
Take a tour of the Royal College of Physicians to find out more about the building and it's fascinating history
11:20
Break with refreshments
11:45
Beyond the Learning panel discussion
We know adult education contributes to more than just learning outcomes. From mental health to building stronger communities, the impact of our work is vast. As multiple crises deepen across the UK, our expert panel chaired by WEA Head of Strategy, Margaret Keane, explores the role adult learning can play in creating long term social change.
12:30
Keynote speaker - To be confirmed
13:00
Lunch
Fuel up for the second half of the day with a freshly prepared, three-course hot fork buffet.
13:50
Workshop block two options
- Unlocking local influence
As the devolution agenda continues at a rapid pace, hear from members of our Local Advisory Panels (LAPs) on our approach to place-based advocacy and its impact in shaping our relationships with Mayoral Combined Authorities and strengthening our internal democracy.
- Crafts with Jaynie
Find your inner creativity and align your energy centres in Jaynie’s session where you will create a colourful chakra bracelet. This unique keepsake aims to serve as a positive reminder of physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
- Photography with Katie
WEA tutor Katie Dexter is a life skills and wellbeing tutor in Weston-Super-Mare. She uses creativity, mindfulness and meditation to help people feel valued and find their place in the community. This session is about how to turn a negative into a positive using creativity and collage.
- Medicinal garden tour
Explore the idyllic and peaceful medicinal gardens of RCP. With over 1000+ species of plants this bespoke collection offers living examples of the history of medicine from ancient Egypt to the life-saving prescription drugs of today.
14:40
Break with refreshments
15:00
Keynote speaker - Taj Ali
Taj Ali is a journalist and historian. His work has appeared in the Guardian, the Independent and the Huffington Post. He is the former editor of Tribune Magazine and is currently writing a book on the history of British South Asian political activism in the UK.
15:40
Closing remarks with WEA President Matthew Pointon and General Secretary and CEO Simon Parkinson
4:30
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