The School Library Association (SLA) is delighted to be bringing the School Library Association Weekend Course to Northampton in 2025.
Taking place over Friday 6 and Saturday 7 June, the course will deliver high quality CPD for all those working in or interested in school libraries. Delegates will be able to attend workshops on new research for school libraries and literacy, using the work of authors and illustrators to change young lives, changing perspectives of school library staff and much more.
The theme is ‘Breaking Barriers: Freedom to Learn' and will address barriers in the form of lack of reading ability and/or desire, censorship, barriers to networking with teachers and barriers to imagination and access to stories.
Former Children’s Laureate and much-loved author, Anne Fine is confirmed as a keynote speaker. Other speakers can be seen on the conference programme.
Anne commented: “As someone who spent hours and hours in the libraries of Northampton – including my own school library - from age ten to age seventeen, I couldn’t be more delighted to go back ‘home’ to talk to the SLA. The library system, and associations like the SLA, remain the mainstay of all young people who, like me way back then, could have achieved nothing without such generous and informed access to books. So I look forward to speaking to everyone, including a lot of old friends, and thanking the members of the SLA for all their important work, and their many years of support.”
SLA President Richard Gerver added: “In a time of so much change and uncertainty, it has never been more important for our library staff to have the opportunity to reflect on and explore best practice. It is an inspirational and galvanising experience!”
SLA CEO Alison Tarrant said: “I’m excited for the Weekend Course in 2025; Richard and Anne are just the tip of the iceberg, and I can’t wait for everyone to see the full programme. It promises more of the quality of experience, thought provoking sessions and fun with colleagues as this year’s recent course. The 2024 course sold out early and some members missed out - so I would strongly encourage booking early to avoid disappointment!”
Super earlybird prices for the course run until 31st August 2024 and start at £125 (+VAT) for SLA members and £155 (+VAT) for non-members. Head to the SLA website for more details and to book.
As a charity, we are looking to support as many schools with supporting reading as possible, so we can offer a matchmaking service between local companies and local schools – with the local company funding the place – or places can be funded by schools or PTA funding.