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Midlands Autumn Conference in Birmingham: ESOL Essentials

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Midlands Autumn Conference in Birmingham: ESOL Essentials

NATECLA Midlands Autumn 2016 Day Conference: ESOL Essentials promises to provide a stimulating Friday afternoon of workshops relevant to all ESOL professionals.


Block bookings welcome – please email info@natecla.org.uk for more details

All ESOL practitioners - from managers and researchers to teachers and trainees - are invited to join us for an innovative programme of practical workshops and networking opportunities. 


>> Book online now


Workshop titles

You will be able to attend 2 workshops – all sessions will be repeated and subject areas have been chosen to have maximum local appeal and relevance.

Exact details of workshops are to be confirmed but will include:

  • Making the most of technology, Diana Tremayne
  • The joy of drilling – Rachael Roberts 
  • Getting learners talking, Christine Tudor Jones

>> Book online now


Workshop details

WORKSHOP 1: Making the most of technology - Diana Tremayne 

This will be a ‘hands-on’ session (WiFi permitting!) where you have the chance to try out a range of resources which can be used at all levels, both inside and outside the classroom.  We will also share ideas about how to use technology in a meaningful way, rather than as gimmick.  In the session we will look at a range of tools including Edmodo, Padlet and Triptico and you should be able to create some resources to try out with your own students.


About Diana

I have been an ESOL teacher for 14 years and have lots of experience of working with teenagers, in particular. I’m interested in making technology accessible for students and staff, with a focus on how it can be used to enhance learning.  I have recently started a full-time PhD at Leeds Beckett University.



WORKSHOP 2: The joy of drilling, Rachael Roberts
Many people see language drills (repeating language) as dull, patronising and outdated. They can be all of those things. However, done in the right way, they can in fact provide an enjoyable way for students, especially those with low literacy levels, to gain confidence and ultimately develop fluency. 

In this workshop we will try out a range of drilling-based activities which require little or no preparation or resources, that are directly relevant to the needs of your students, and that I guarantee you and your students will enjoy!


About Rachael

Since 1989 I have worked as a teacher, teacher trainer and materials writer in both ELT and ESOL contexts. I started my career abroad, then returned to the UK, where I spent thirteen years teaching  ESOL and training ESOL teachers at Solihull College and Warwick University. Currently I spend most of my time writing teaching materials, but still teach when I can.  I also spend rather too much time on twitter and on my website, www.elt-resourceful.com.


WORKSHOP 3: Getting learners talking, Christine Tudor Jones

This is a practical workshop for volunteer ESOL teachers or teachers struggling with reluctant speakers and looking for new ways of encouraging them to speak more.  This session should give you confidence to try out a wide range of activities with any language level.

About Christine

Christine has been a member of NATECLA for about fifteen years and has been teaching ESOL for the same length of time.  After 5 torrid years in a primary classroom, she found Birmingham Adult Education ESOL classes, decided this was the place for her, and (kindly sponsored by them) did her CELTA.  She works for  South and City College Birmingham as a lecturer in ESOL, a CELTA trainer and TLC (Teaching and Learning Coach).   She also does a bit of examining of CELTA courses.  

Request further information
  • Date(s): 25 November 2016 to 25 November 2016
  • Time: 13:00 - 16:30
  • Price: £10 - members, £20 - non-members, £5 - volunteers / unwaged
  • Location: South and City College Birmingham:Hall Green Campus
  • Address: South and City College
    Hall Green Campus
    Colebank Road
    Hall Green
    Birmingham B28 8ES
  • Main contact: Jane Arstall
  • Telephone: +447443601298
  • Email: info@natecla.org.uk

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