Spotlight on English: teach-meet for primary English specialists (26 February 2026)

Описание: Our Spotlight on English termly series brings together members of the English Association’s Primary and Early Years Committee for lively, thought-provoking discussions focused on the issues that matter most right now.

In these interactive sessions, speakers will explore topics of current relevance and interest, including recent publications and events, classroom practice, and professional development. They will share practical ideas and approaches, and there will be dedicated time for questions from the audience. Whether you are looking for inspiration, confirmation, or fresh perspectives, this is an opportunity to connect with colleagues and feel energised about English teaching.

We launch the series on Thursday 26 February, 4:30–5:15pm, with our first panel bringing together Jo Beer, Megan Dixon, Kirstie Hewett and Laura Spargo.

Jo Beer is a Senior Lecturer in Primary Education at the University of Chichester, drawing on over 20 years’ primary teaching experience. She supports trainee teachers in developing effective pedagogy and leads curriculum work in English and Religious Education. Her research explores teacher presence and the role of story, play, and spiritual development.

Dr Megan Dixon has balanced a career in education and school leadership with an academic research career. She has a wealth of school leadership, school improvement and policy experience, including working for the Education Endowment Foundation, in ITE, as a MAT Executive Leader, a Local Authority English consultant, Head Teacher and a teacher. Her research interests are informed by her school experiences and lie in the acquisition of literacy, spoken language development, SEN, curriculum development and the translation and implementation of research into educational practice. She regularly writes for the TES and is often found researching and supporting schools, both nationally and internationally.

Laura Spargo is a primary English specialist and education consultant with international teaching and leadership experience across the UK, Spain and Dubai. She is passionate about empowering schools to create high-quality (and joyful) English learning experiences which enable every child to view themselves as successful readers and writers. Laura shares her thoughts, musings, ideas and practical suggestions regularly on Substack and is a proud member of the English Association's Primary and Early Years Education Committee.

The series is hosted by Kirstie Hewett: formerly a primary school teacher and leader, Kirstie Hewett FEA is a Senior Lecturer in Primary Education at the University of Chichester and a School Improvement Specialist with the University of Chichester Academy Trust. In this role, she works with English subject leaders and teachers to develop all aspects of the primary English curriculum. She is Chair of the English Association’s Primary and Early Years Education Committee. Her doctoral research focuses on teachers’ conceptualisations of pedagogy in the English classroom.