Teachers will be able to engage with some of Scotland and Ireland’s leading writers and critics at a CPD conference held at the University of Aberdeen on Saturday, May 12.
Bernard MacLaverty, author of acclaimed novels such as Caland Grace Notes, award-winning Burns critic Liam McIlvanney and leading Scottish poet Sheena Blackhall will be among the keynote speakers at the event, which takes places in conjunction with Aberdeen's Word Festival. It will combine readings by creative writers, lectures by leading literary critics and workshops focused on the use of contemporary literature in the classroom.
Organised by the University's School of Education and by the Centre for Irish and Scottish Studies, the conference will also feature outstanding younger writers such as top Scots poet and novelist Matthew Fitt, and Irish poet Leontia Flynn, winner of the prestigious Gregory Award in 2002. Workshops will include sessions on teaching creative writing, the use of Scots in the classroom as well as discussions of texts that can be used to inspire young learners.
"This event is specially designed to give teachers the chance to meet and to work closely with some of the key contributors to present-day writing in Scotland and Ireland," said Professor Cairns Craig, Directory of the Centre for Irish and Scottish Studies and author of The Modern Scottish Novel.
"It will provide a unique opportunity for teachers to gain insight into some of the most exciting developments in contemporary literature".
As well as the lectures, readings and workshops, delegates will have the opportunity to attend events at the Word Festival in nearby King's College, which will feature distinguished Canadian short-story writer Alasdair MacLeod and Scottish novelist William McIlvanney.
English teachers and Primary teachers with an interest in language and literature have until April 30 to book their place at the event. The cost for a full day is £80 and will include coffees and teas, lunch and an informal wine reception to finish.
For information on how to book your place please contact Jennifer Boyd at href="mailto:jennifer.boyd@abdn.ac.uk">jennifer.boyd@abdn.ac.uk</a> or call 01224 274840. For accommodation in Aberdeen call 01224 273 444.