The Co-Curriculum is one of the defining features of independent schools. In an era of political threat, it becomes a point of difference which is fundamental to the business case of the sector. It also presents challenges to the leaders of these programmes.
The drive for quality and efficiency is greater than ever, together with a pressure to demonstrate positive impacts beyond entertaining pupils. All this is happening in an environment where the future of staffing the programme is a constant challenge, in a landscape of shifting sector expectations.
This year’s Conference – the biggest assembly of co-curricular leaders in the country - seeks to address some of these topics, and present current thinking on relevant issues. Leading researchers in the areas of staff remuneration, programme impact and the pursuit of excellence will offer an evidence base for addressing areas which have implications for all schools. The afternoon seminar programme provides a range of optional sessions to provide for specific interests and circumstances. The breaks will, as always, provide an unrivalled opportunity for networking.
At this focal point for the sector, it is important that the co-curriculum is stronger than ever. It will remain a timeless feature of thriving schools. This presents its leaders with challenge and opportunity in equal measure.
9.30am
Conference Assembles. Refreshments
9.45am
Co-Curricular Activity in a Changing Political Environment
Rachel Owens, Head, St George’s College, Weybridge
10..30am
Expectations and Rewards for Staffing the Co-Curriculum
Rhiannon Cutler, Managing Director, Baines Cutler
11.15am
Refreshment break
11.30am
Building a Culture of Excellence across the Co-Curriculum
David Faulkner MBE OLY
12.15pm
Research Report: The Social Impact of Outdoor Activities in Schools
Martin Davidson, CEO, Outward Bound Trust
1.00pm
Lunch
1.45pm
Seminar Session One
Choose ONE of the following sessions:
either Leading Trips and Tours: EVC Update
Paul Bond, Outdoor Education Advisers’ Panel, Royal Geographical Society
or Getting the Most out of SOCS Co-Curricular
James Kershaw-Naylor, SOCS Development Director
or Building Teamship among leaders of various Co-Curricular areas
David Faulkner MBE OLY
2.30pm
Refreshment break
1.45pm
Seminar Session Two
Choose ONE of the following sessions:
either The Future Staffing of the Sports Programme
Neil Rollings, PADSIS
or The implications for Independent Schools of the National Plan for Music Education
Richard Mabbott & Sharon Bell, Services for Education
or Managing Difficult Conversations
Nick Creed, Wellington College
3.30pm
Conference disperses
1 PLACE £219
2 PLACES £349
3 PLACES £449
All prices exclude VAT
PLEASE NOTE: We are currently having issues on the payment link for this conference. If you would like to book a place then please email on or call 015395 60060. Alternatively you can place the booking on the website and we will amend your invoice to the correct price.
Conference runs 9.30am – 3.30pm. Prices include catering and resources. All prices exclude VAT.