Reading Conference: Reading Opens Doors: Unlocking Potential Through Literacy
This one-day professional learning conference designed to equip educators with the knowledge, strategies, and inspiration to enhance reading provision across all key stages. Centred on the belief that reading is fundamental to all learning and life opportunities, the event brings together expert practitioners and researchers to share best practice in oracy, comprehension, intervention, and inclusive literacy support.
Description
Join us for an inspiring and practical literacy conference focused on unlocking the potential of every child through reading. This one-day event brings together expert speakers and workshop leaders to explore how reading supports success across the curriculum and transforms life opportunities.
Ideal for teachers, literacy mentors, teaching assistants literacy leads, SENCOs and school leaders, this event offers research-informed strategies, inclusive approaches, and hands-on ideas for immediate classroom impact.
What the conference covers
Reading is the foundation of all learning, opening doors to academic success, personal growth, and lifelong opportunities. This conference brings together educators, researchers, and literacy specialists to explore practical, evidence-based strategies that empower children and young people through reading.
With a strong focus on inclusion and impact, the event offers:
- Inspiration and Insight from a keynote and closing speaker (to be announced) who will share powerful messages on the transformative power of literacy.
- Networking opportunities with fellow educators, school leaders, and literacy professionals across Barking and Dagenham and beyond.
- Resource Stalls and Exhibitors showcasing tools, programmes, and books to support your school's literacy journey.
- The role of reading as a gateway to learning and lifelong success
- Practical strategies to improve reading across primary and secondary phases
- Evidence-based interventions and inclusive literacy practices
Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired, informed, and equipped to make a difference through reading.
Speakers
Join high-impact keynote speakers and workshops led by experienced practitioners:
Oracy and Reading Development (KS1 & KS2)
Laura Hughes will explore how strengthening spoken language supports early reading and comprehension.
Targeted Secondary Interventions
Michelle Cotterill will share research from the Laurel Trust on effective reading interventions tailored for older students.
Teaching Inference Across All Phases
Jennifer Harrison will present structured approaches to improve pupils’ inferential thinking and deep comprehension.
Supporting Learners with SEND
Sarah Barbet-Sawyer will offer specific, practical strategies to ensure all children – including those with special educational needs – can access and enjoy reading.
Expert Keynote and Closing Speakers (TBA)
Inspiring thought leaders will frame the day with big-picture thinking about the power of literacy in transforming lives. To mention the training that BDSIP offers for Reading Interventions.
Whether you work in early years, primary, or secondary education, this conference offers practical takeaways and fresh perspectives to help every child unlock their potential through reading.
Who should attend?
- Headteacher
- SENCO
- ARP Lead
- Senior Leader
- Middle Leader
- Head of Department
- Deputy Head
- Subject Lead/Coordinator
- Teacher
- Teaching/Learning Support Assistant
Booking confirmation including access information and important pre-course information will be sent to you upon booking.
Please check your junk inbox if you do not receive your booking confirmation and ensure you mark the sender as safe to enable you to receive any further pre-course information or changes.
Contact information
For specific enquiries about this course, please contact GillianBratley gillian.bratley@bdsip.co.uk at Louise Harding at louise.harding@bdsip.co.uk.
For general booking or CPD enquiries please contact CPDEvents@bdsip.co.uk
Cancellation Policy
- No refund will be received for places cancelled within 5 working days of the session.
- Schools will receive a 50% refund for places cancelled within 10 working days of the session.