Gogglebox vicar Revd Kate Bottley to lead keynote address at Leeds' teaching conference

The Teaching and Learning Leeds Conference, at The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) on June 22, attracts around 300 delegates from across Yorkshire and further afield.

Rev Kate Bottley, a qualified teacher who spent some of her training at Leeds Girls’ High School, is to open her address with a focus on how teachers can keep passion and creativity alive.

Rev Bottley is best known today as a broadcaster and Church of England priest, who became a favourite of the nation with her appearances on Gogglebox.

GSAL English teacher Anne Williams, organiser of the conference, has been widely recognised for her work in innovation and learning.

She said: “The conference is designed to reinvigorate weary teachers as we approach the end of the school year.

“The combination of inspiring speakers and networking with supportive colleagues is a great pick me up, reminding teachers why they joined the profession and love what they do.”

Earlier this year, Ms Williams, a classroom teacher of 17 years, was named runner up in the i25 awards for her work on continuing professional development and peer support, in particular through the establishment of the conference.

June’s event, now in its fourth year, will focus on a theme of ‘exploring the heart of teaching.

There will be sessions on topics related to teaching and learning, meeting individual student needs, leadership, primary and early years, and subject specific workshops in secondary English, maths and DT.

Maths teacher, writer and podcaster Craig Barton will give the closing talk, on memory and desirable difficulties, covering theory and practical strategies for improving memory and retention.