Script or craft? Reclaiming the art of teaching — Professor Mick Waters and Melissa Farnham
As schools navigate increasing demands for consistency, accountability and measurable outcomes, what happens when teaching becomes more focused on delivery than pedagogy? In this thought-provoking conversation, Hywel Roberts, Mick Waters and Melissa Farnham will explore what may be lost when professional judgement, creativity and relationships are squeezed from the learning experience. Drawing on curriculum design, storytelling, learner engagement and contemporary research, the session will examine how educators can create learning that captures curiosity, builds belonging and develops agency. Together, the panel will consider how schools can balance structure with professional expertise, ensuring learners experience education not as a series of tasks to complete, but as a meaningful journey that engages, elevates and empowers them.
About the speakers
A former head teacher, Mick Waters works closely with teachers and leaders in schools, MATs and local authorities to support the development of teaching approaches and curriculum to ensure the best learning outcomes for children. For some years he was Director of Curriculum for England, based at the Qualification and Curriculum Authority (QCA), and before that held the post of Chief Education Officer for the City of Manchester. He is also invited to work at a policy level with government in different parts of the world.
Melissa Farnham is Chief Executive of ASDAN and has more than 25 years’ experience across the UK education landscape. Prior to joining ASDAN, she held leadership roles within education and charitable providers, alongside governance and advisory roles across local authorities and the non-maintained and independent sector. Melissa has worked with NGOs, devolved funding commissioners, government leaders and policy groups, and has contributed to policy consultations, governmental workshops, Green Paper development and advisory groups. Her experience spans inclusion, reasonable adjustments, access to assessment, organisational change and partnership development. She is passionate about shaping inclusive education systems that engage learners, elevate aspirations and empower young people to open doors to their futures.
