LEAD returns to Coventry University London

LEAD returned to Coventry University London last month, to promote professional and personal development among staff members.

The annual conference – which stands for 'Listen, Explore and Develop' – aims to share the latest knowledge, developments and best practice within university education, and give staff members the opportunity to take part in a series of workshops.

Each day began with a speech from a keynote speaker. On the first day, Chris Hay (Distinguished Engineer at IBM) delivered a talk on how technological advancements are facilitating immersive digital experiences across all sectors. Day two saw Lord Jim Knight (Former MP and Chief Education and External Officer at TES Global) advocating accessibility within the education system. Finally, on the third day, Joanne Dobson (Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor Strategic Relationships at Coventry University) reflected on the importance of personal and professional development within the workplace.

After each keynote speech, staff members began their workshops. These were broken down into four categories – wellbeing, learning, community and digital – each focussing on a different facet of professional or personal development, from improving cultural awareness to upskilling on digital platforms.

LEAD 2019 also included a staff games tournament, with a selection of great prizes for the winners. At the end of the conference, all colleagues gathered at Cutlers Exchange for the LEAD closing ceremony for drinks, nibbles and updates from the campus executive.