Free Event:

Registration Now Open!

During this exciting day we will discuss how we can make sure all young stories are being heard and taken seriously as well as being represented in literature and performance. We will talk about research and art for – and with – children who may have, for example, alternative ways of communicating, processing sensory input and responding to social situations. The aim of the day is for everyone (young people, parents, teaching staff, artists and academics) to share their knowledge so we can explore ways in which all young expressions and experiences can be included and all children have access to cultural participation.

The day will have:

• An exhibition of art made by children and young people
  
  
• A film by Oscar Kraft titled ‘Come Full Circle’
  
  
• Keynote speakers: Ellie Griffiths (Oily Cart), will discuss creating performances for neurodiverse young audiences; Nicola Shaughnessy (University of Kent), will talk about participatory arts and Autism; and Ben Fletcher-Watson (Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities, University of Edinburgh), will talk about the future of relaxed performances
  
  
• A panel discussion lead by Gill Brigg (Theatre Maker, SEN Teacher and Lecturer), which will focus on storytelling, alongside contributions from: Boo Sujiwaro (Writer), Eva Galova (SEN Teacher), Nikkie Hallam (Augmentative and Alternative Communication Specialist), Oscar Kraft (Film Maker), Sally Markwells (SEN Teacher) and Susannah Kraft Levene (Parent)
  
  
• Stand up poet and researcher Dr Kate Fox will develop a poem based on the day
  
  
• There will be presentations on the subject of puppetry by Caroline Astell-Burt (London School of Puppetry); Joe Wright (Royal Birmingham Conservatoire) will focus on music; Jennifer Essex (Teesside University and Fully Booked Theatre) will discuss interactive dance theatre; and Leonie Elliott-Graves (Goldsmiths, University of London and Wac Arts) and Chas Mollet (Wac Arts) will focus on advocacy, art and assistive technology
  
  
• There will be lunch and the day will end with a wine reception

Registration is free but there are a limited number of places. Please book at:
The Symposium Registration Page at Eventbrite

As an inclusive event we are aiming to make sure the day is accessible for everyone. There will be a separate space available during the day and we encourage participants to get in touch about any other ways they may be supported to take part.

Registration is from 10.00 – 10.30 and the wine reception from 17.00 – 18.30. 

For any questions contact Karian Schuitema  or Abigail Pearson 

To check your travel to and from Keele University as well as access other key information please see the symposium resource section below: