For this residential conference (Friday evening to Sunday midday), we are aiming to bring together key figures from within the field, looking at the development of writing in a variety of contexts including schools, university and the community. In addition to a number of keynote speakers, we are inviting proposals from any NAWE members with stimulating ideas or challenging views about how the writer's craft can best be shared. We will also invite representatives from the major funding agencies. This represents an important opportunity for the NAWE membership to engage in a discussion on how their work will develop and be supported in the future.

We welcome proposals in the form of panel presentations, papers, discussions or workshops, and we should like to feature sessions covering any of the following:

â?¢ Writing within both primary and secondary schools
â?¢ Writing across the curriculum and the use of non-fiction
â?¢ How teachers can best be supported as writers
â?¢ Issues for creative writing within Higher Education
â?¢ Professional development opportunities for students
â?¢ Writing online
â?¢ Publishing opportunities related to educational work
â?¢ International collaboration
â?¢ Writing as a social and moral force

We shall be looking at the first findings of our Writers in Schools Research Programme and the specific needs of the Higher Education Network. After the conference, on Sunday afternoon, tours of nearby Shandy Hall will be available.

Proposals should consist of a brief (100 word) outline, describing the focus and structure of the session, accompanied by a more detailed description (250 words max) and biographical information on all presenters (50 words each). The suggested length of a session is 45 to 75 minutes. Please also specify exactly what technical equipment you would like provided. Presenters will have a proportion (£50) of the conference fee waived. Please email proposals to Gill Greaves.

Deadline for proposals: 31 May
Decisions on proposals: 30 June
Programme published: 31 July
Early booking (reduced rate): 15 September
Booking deadline: 15 October