Events by Devon County Agricultural Association

Transforming Classroom Literacy with Talk for WritingThe Talk for Writing Primary Literacy Conference in Huddersfield offers educators a immersive professional development opportunity designed to revolutionize the teaching of writing across primary education. Rooted in the innovative pedagogical approach developed by Pie Corbett and Julia Strong, this full-day event demonstrates how children can build deep linguistic confidence by first internalising spoken language patterns before putting pen to paper. Delegates will explore the core three-stage framework—Imitation, Innovation, and Independent Application—which equips pupils with the foundational tools to become articulate, creative, and confident writers across all genres. Mastering the Core Three-Stage FrameworkThroughout the conference, expert literacy trainers break down each phase of the Talk for Writing process with concrete classroom examples. Attendees will discover how oral storytelling, text mapping, and interactive actions help pupils retain complex text structures without relying on memorization. During the Imitation stage, educators will learn how to select and adapt model texts that target specific grammar and vocabulary objectives. Moving into Innovation, delegates will explore structured techniques for co-constructing stories with pupils, fostering collaborative creativity. Finally, the Independent Application stage equips teachers with formative assessment methods that encourage children to transfer learned structures into original compositions independently. Bridging the Gap Between Oral Language and Written WorkA major highlight of this conference focuses on bridging the persistent gap between spoken communication and high-quality written output. Key workshops address how to engage reluctant writers, particularly pupils who struggle with vocabulary retrieval or structural planning. Through 'Book-talk' and 'Writer-talk' methodologies, delegates will discover actionable ways to help pupils articulate creative decisions before writing. Attendees will also examine how targeted vocabulary games, role-play exercises, and shared writing sessions build rich language banks that directly translate into improved writing quality across EYFS, Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2. Implementing a Whole-School Literacy StrategySuccessful literacy development requires a consistent and aligned approach across all year groups. This conference provides school leadership teams and English leads with practical guidance on embedding Talk for Writing into the wider curriculum. Sessions offer insight into curriculum mapping, managing progression from early years to upper primary, and sustaining long-term impact on national assessment benchmarks. Leaders will leave with actionable strategies for conducting peer observations, guiding internal CPD workshops, and fostering a school-wide culture where creative writing thrives naturally. Interactive Workshops and Real-World Case StudiesIn addition to keynotes, the Huddersfield conference incorporates hands-on breakout sessions where participants actively practice text mapping, shared writing, and live editing. Delegates will examine video case studies from certified Talk for Writing training centers showcasing real classroom transformations and measurable pupil outcomes. The event also presents dedicated opportunities to network with peer educators, share best practices, and discuss tailored solutions for unique school environ

Creative and Participatory Inquiry in Practice 2026 is an international research conference hosted by De Montfort University in Leicester, United Kingdom. Taking place on 19–20 November 2026, the event brings together academics, practitioners, artists, community organisations and policymakers to explore innovative and collaborative research approaches that create meaningful social impact. The conference focuses on creative inquiry methods, participatory research practices and interdisciplinary collaboration across education, health, arts, social sciences and community development. Conference Overview Research is increasingly moving beyond traditional academic boundaries. This conference demonstrates how collaborative approaches involving researchers and communities can generate practical solutions for real-world challenges. Participants will learn how creative methodologies such as visual arts, storytelling, digital media, performance and participatory action research can improve research outcomes while engaging diverse audiences. Across two days, delegates will experience keynote presentations from internationally recognised scholars, panel discussions, practical workshops and interactive sessions designed to encourage knowledge sharing and partnership development. Why Attend? The conference provides opportunities to: Discover innovative research methodologies. Learn from internationally recognised experts. Share successful case studies. Explore interdisciplinary collaboration. Build partnerships with universities and organisations. Develop practical research skills. Exchange ideas with international delegates. Understand community-engaged research. Gain professional development opportunities. Expand academic and professional networks. Key Themes Topics covered throughout the conference include: Participatory Action Research Creative Research Methods Community Engagement Digital Innovation in Research Arts-Based Methodologies Social Justice Research Inclusive Research Design Public Engagement Knowledge Exchange Policy Impact Each session demonstrates how collaborative research contributes to sustainable social and economic development. Conference Programme The programme features a combination of academic excellence and practical learning, including: Opening keynote address Expert panel discussions Research paper presentations Interactive workshops Poster exhibitions Networking lunches Community partnership sessions Collaborative research showcases Closing reflections and future directions These sessions encourage delegates to exchange ideas while developing new partnerships for future research projects. Featured Speakers Leading researchers and practitioners from UK and international universities will discuss emerging trends in participatory inquiry. Topics include community-led innovation, digital storytelling, inclusive education, environmental research, public health engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration. Delegates will gain practical insights that can be applied across higher education, government, healthcare, charities and private industry. Professional Development Participants can strengthen their expertise through practical workshops that demonstrate how to: Design participatory research projects. Engage stakeholders effectively. Collect qualitative data creatively. Improve research impact. Communicate findings to wider audiences. Build long-term research collaborations. These sessions are valuable for both experienced researchers and those beginning their academic careers. Networking Opportunities Dedicated networking sessions provide opportunities to meet: International academics Research funders Community organisations Industry representatives Government agencies Doctoral researchers Policy professionals These interactions often lead to collaborative publications, funded research projects and long-term professional partnerships. Venue The Georgian Rooms at De Montfort University provide an excellent setting for academic conferences. Located on the university's Leicester campus, the venue offers modern conference facilities, comfortable meeting spaces and easy access to city-centre transport links. Delegates can also explore Leicester's cultural attractions, museums, restaurants and historic landmarks during their visit. Benefits for Delegates Attendees will leave with: New research knowledge Practical methodologies International contacts Collaboration opportunities Greater research impact Professional inspiration Access to emerging research trends Enhanced career development The conference aims to encourage innovative thinking while promoting collaboration across disciplines and sectors. Creative and Participatory Inquiry in Practice 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for researchers and professionals interested in collaborative and socially engaged research. Through keynote presentations, interactive workshops and valuable networking opportunities, delegates will gain practical knowledge that supports impactful research and innovation. Hosted by De Montfort University, this event continues the university's commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research and strengthening partnerships that address global challenges.

The Devon County Show, organized by the Devon County Agricultural Association (DCAA), stands as the premier event in the South West’s calendar, acting as a massive, vibrant celebration of country life, high-quality local produce, and the vital agricultural heritage of the region. As we look toward the 2026 edition, the show continues its long-standing tradition of bringing the "best of the county" to a single, sprawling location just outside of Exeter. Spanning three action-packed days, the event serves as a critical hub for the farming community while providing an accessible, educational, and thrilling day out for families and urban visitors alike. At its core, the Devon County Show is a showcase of excellence in livestock and animal husbandry. The grand arenas will host hundreds of classes featuring the finest cattle, sheep, pigs, and goats, as well as spectacular equine competitions ranging from heavy horses to elite showjumping. For those involved in the industry, it is a place of serious competition and networking; for the public, it is a rare opportunity to see rare breeds and champion animals up close. The "Grand Parade" in the main arena remains a perennial highlight, offering a majestic procession of the week's winners that never fails to impress. Beyond the livestock, the show is a food lover's paradise. The Food & Drink Pavilion is legendary, packed with local artisans offering everything from traditional Devon clotted cream and farmhouse ciders to contemporary craft gins and organic meats. It isn’t just about shopping; it’s about the story of food. Live cooking demonstrations by top regional chefs highlight how to use seasonal West Country ingredients, bridging the gap between the field and the fork. The 2026 show also places a heavy emphasis on the future of agriculture and the environment. Visitors can explore the latest in industrial engineering and agricultural technology, from GPS-guided tractors to sustainable land management solutions. The "Crafts and Gardens" section provides a quieter retreat, showcasing incredible floral displays, traditional rural crafts like blacksmithing and hurdle making, and home-baked delights that keep Devon’s heritage alive. With a massive trade stand area featuring hundreds of exhibitors, live music, fairground rides, and high-octane arena entertainment—such as motorcycle display teams or falconry—the Devon County Show is more than an exhibition; it is a vital cultural touchstone. It captures the spirit of the British countryside, evolving with the times while remaining fiercely proud of its roots. Whether you are there to strike a business deal for new machinery, learn about honeybees, or simply enjoy a Pimm's in the sunshine, the DCAA ensures an atmosphere of community and celebration that is second to none.