The Macclesfield Academy  Stuns as Host of ResearchEd Cheshire Conference

ResearchEd - a renowned conference that brings together education professionals from across the nation, and the globe - made it's debut in Cheshire last weekend, with The Macclesfield Academy shining as the hosting venue! 

On Saturday 8th July, The Macclesfield Academy staff and students proudly welcomed speakers and delegates of the ResearchEd Cheshire conference, for a day of evidence-based knowledge and wisdom. Throughout the event, up to 250 teachers, researchers and education leaders engaged with a programme brimming with expertise from nationally significant figures, who delivered talks on a variety of research informed topics.

Delegates were enticed from near and far to embrace the opportunity to listen to thought-provoking talks, with some travelling all the way from Chicago and even Australia!   Key note speakers, Mary Myatt and Alison Peacock, shared their knowledge on curriculum and the professionalism in career-long learning, alongside a host of other influential figures, from the likes of Alex Quigley - exploring the challenges with pupils' writing development - and Simon Day who spoke powerfully about the importance of developing a culture of meaningful communication in the classroom. 

The organisation of the day ran without a hitch, with students of The Macclesfield Academy volunteering their Saturday to help direct delegates around the school and ensure that refreshments were replenished. Their pride in being students of the academy and diligence in their roles as representatives of the school did not go unnoticed, as numerous visitors commented on the warm welcome they received:

"your pupils were an absolute credit - so polite, courteous, generally interested in conversation and discussion and so proud of their school and their learning. Thank you for welcoming us with open arms today."

Throughout the day, the Academy values of 'Learning above all', 'Academic Excellence' and members of our community being 'Known and Valued' shone through. The Macclesfield Academy staff members attended sessions to develop their own practice, opportunities for collaboration with other educational settings became talking points and teachers, Mr Blaylock, Mrs Jones and Mr Laverick each delivered their own session on their area of expertise. Not to mention, an outstanding lunch served by Mrs Salt and the catering team, which was dubbed as 'the best cooked food in a school bar none."

Immensely proud and privileged to have hosted such a prestigious event for professionals in education, Headteacher, Mr Galvin shared his joy in the evident success of the day and gratitude to all involved; especially MFL teacher, Mrs Jones, who worked relentlessly as lead organiser. 

" I was stopped repeatedly by delegates and speakers during the day to say how wonderful an event it was and the warmth of welcome recieved. To everyone who worked on the build up and on the day - a heartfelt thankyou."