19 August 2024

Annual Conference

By Bellavista S.H.A.R.E

Johannesburg, South Africa – 14 August 2024 – Bellavista S.H.A.R.E is proud to announce its Annual Conference, themed "Reclaim Reading: Strengthen Literacy Practice," taking place on 6 & 7 November, 2024. The conference aims to bridge the gap between research and practice, addressing South Africa's pressing literacy challenges through dynamic discussions and invaluable insights from local and international experts.

Headlining the conference is keynote speaker, Dr. Carol Tolman, an internationally renowned literacy consultant with over two decades of experience as a special educator in the United States. As the co-author of LETRS, 3rd ed. (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling), Dr. Tolman has revolutionised professional development for educators, equipping them with vital tools to enhance literacy rates across diverse student populations.

"We are honoured to welcome Dr. Tolman and learn from her extensive expertise," said Alison Scott, Executive Principal at Bellavista School. "Her presentations on topics such as impactful literacy planning, the reading/writing brain, and creating accurate, efficient readers and spellers will undoubtedly inspire and empower educators with practical strategies to elevate literacy outcomes."

The conference will also feature  representatives from the Zenex Foundation, Fatima Adam and Catherine Langsford, who will share their extensive experience in enhancing literacy outcomes on a large scale. Dr. Emile Gouws, a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Johannesburg and a globally recognised advocate for disability rights, will lead a thought-provoking discussion on the intricate topic of neurodiversity. Khomotso Malapane, Chief Educational Specialist from the Mpumalanga Department of Education will also be in attendance to discuss the importance of a language-rich environment and how twinning of urban and rural schools can enhance language exposure and practice.

The conference promises a dynamic platform for educators to engage in enlightening lectures, interactive breakout sessions, and a networking cocktail evening on 6 November. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights to elevate literacy education across South Africa.

"We encourage all educators and individuals passionate about literacy to join us for this transformative event. Together, we can reclaim reading and empower our students with the gift of literacy, paving the way for a brighter future," adds Scott

Tickets for the Bellavista S.H.A.R.E. Literacy Conference are available through Quicket at https://www.quicket.co.za/events/256618-bellavista-share-literacy-conference/#/ For more information and updates, please visit www.bellavista.org.za

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About Bellavista S.H.A.R.E.

Bellavista S.H.A.R.E. is an initiative by Bellavista School that harnesses the collective expertise of its staff and industry thought leaders to improve educational delivery in Southern Africa. Guided by the principle of "Share what we know; Help where we can; Advise and assist; Resource and equip; Educate others," Bellavista S.H.A.R.E. has developed public-private partnerships with key decision-makers at provincial and national levels, as well as tertiary institutions and global partners, to ensure effective intervention.

Bellavista S.H.A.R.E. Online extends the reach of this initiative by offering continuous professional development opportunities to practitioners throughout Southern Africa and beyond. The platform provides a wealth of information and knowledge through award-winning courses, general interest and parenting resources, SACE-accredited programs, an annual online conference featuring international and local experts, journal articles, virtual intervention programs, webinar series, and an early grade literacy app in all eleven South African languages.

For more information or to book your training, please contact 011 788 5454 or share@bellavistaschool.co.za.