Registration is now open for our virtual EdFest

A huge welcome to those interested in taking part in our Festival of Education, taking place this coming April. Our aim, as always, is to provide an insight into the world of education and focus on key areas which we as educators feel are crucial in 2022.  Whether this is a clearer understanding of pupils’ wellbeing and mental health, more clarity on the effects of transition from one grade to another (one school to another), the impact of modern technology on their lives or the role they can play in sustainability in the environment, we are confident that there will be something for everyone. Our live audience can take an active role in discussions, debate and listen to more formal presentations in Chinese and English. Our online audience from around the world can log in to the sessions they are particularly interested in and take part virtually from afar.  As we always say at EdFest – come and join the debate.

Julian Fisher 

Senior Partner, Venture Education

Julian has 16 years’ experience working in education in China, including nearly a decade with Harrow Beijing and the British Council. He is the Vice Chair of the British Chamber of Commerce in China and Chair of the Chamber’s Education Forum, which drives initiatives such as Employability Week and the Young Professionals Development Programme. He is also a mentor for Durham University, former president of the China North Entrepreneurs’ Organization and a strategic advisor for the innovative edtech platform Globiliti. In his talk entitled ‘International Education in China’, he will take a look at the past, present and future of international education in China, from the imperial examinations to the double reduction policy.

Scott Hayden

EdTech Demonstrator for the UK Department for Education

Scott Hayden is a teacher and manager of a student-turned-technologist team that supports and trains all learners and staff in using digital, creative, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning. He is also a Google Certified Innovator, a National Teaching Awards Silver Winner, and a National Advisor for EdTech UK. In his talk, he will discuss some of the latest educational innovations as well as the importance of digital wellbeing. What is the effect of having such a strong digital footprint for us as individuals and educational organisations and how can we cope with this to ensure our own ongoing positive mental health?

Tingting Chen 

Art Therapist, ELG

Tingting Chen provides art therapy and mental health counselling services to clients and their families. She is one of the few US-registered art therapists who are bilingual and practicing in China. In her talk, she will explore changes and transitions during challenging times. Change and transition are natural parts of life, and they elicit different responses from different people. Ms. Chen will discuss the benefits of art therapy, and how art can help children to cope with changes and transitions. More importantly, educators and parents will learn some creative strategies and activities to support children in challenging times. 

Peter Milne

Founder/Director of Target4Green

Peter Milne has over 25 years’ experience as a teacher, environment coordinator, workshop leader and educational consultant. He has worked in the UK, Malaysia and Dubai. In his talk, he will discuss the importance of educating children on climate change and sustainability. He will offer practical solutions that can be achieved through whole-school engagement and community outreach initiatives.

George Peterkin

Founder, Mind Your Health Ltd.

George Peterkin is an experienced teacher. In 2018, he created Mind Your Health Ltd. to provide professional training in mental health awareness and first aid intervention to pupils, teachers and parents. He works and continues to train as a counsellor, bringing his knowledge and experience to educational institutions. Mr Peterkin wants to reduce the stigma around mental health while also instilling in people the confidence to take charge of their own wellbeing.

In his talk entitled 'Youth Mental Health Awareness', he will offer a sampling of his 'Mental Health First Aid' course as he introduces several key concepts of mental health in young people. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of what mental health is and why it is so important for us to maintain it. Mr Peterkin will also discuss the potential risk factors to a young person’s mental health and how to prevent them from taking hold. His talk will also cover the early warning signs of poor mental health and how we can intervene to give initial aid to a young person who may be struggling.