Conference 2009

National Association for the Teaching of Drama

Annual Conference 2009

Changing Minds – the Power of the Imagination

Teachers in an educational system that takes imagination seriously must . . . be accorded a greater degree of autonomy. They cannot be treated as consumers and distributors of the contents of curriculum guides, nor as animated textbooks, nor as worksheet pedlars.’ (Kieran Egan)

This is an exciting time to be in education. The central roles of creativity and the imagination in learning are being recognised once more. The natd has always understood the need for a creative curriculum and over the years has striven to persuade educators that a lot of what has happened in schools has ignored the importance and power of the imagination. After many years of prescribed curriculum content and teaching methodology, reports, research findings and inspection overviews have highlighted the adverse effects of a system based on measurable results, league tables, targets and conformity. This year’s conference deals directly with the belief that the teacher has the power to mould and change minds and that this responsibility must be taken seriously.

We are delighted to include amongst our keynote speakers Dorothy Heathcote (President of natd) whose pioneering work has now been recognised as a major influence in schools and colleges worldwide. Giving the scientific perspective on education and the imagination will be Paul Howard-Jones from the University of Bristol’s Graduate School of Education whose work has revealed the significance of creativity on the learning process. Our third speaker is Duncan Bathgate, headteacher at Bealings School, Suffolk where the power of cross-curricular creative modes of teaching, involving the Mantle of the Expert, is a shining example of how to engage the imagination fully in the learning process. Workshops will further develop the theme in terms of practical applications allowing delegates opportunities to fully explore ideas with recognised experts in the field.

All of this amongst the glorious setting of Oriel College in the heart of Oxford ensures a highly profitable and enjoyable weekend which offers so many opportunities to invigorate any hard-working, imaginative teacher.

Imagination and not reason makes us human. (Edward Bond)