The event focused on TDET's bespoke new Pedagogy Model, which has been developed by senior staff across the Trust to set a standardised framework for the theory, method and practices used by its teaching staff.

The conference brought together approximately 400 educators from across TDET's diverse range of seven academies. The focus for the conference was ‘Assessment and Adaptation’ and it included a range of insightful keynote sessions, enabling Trust teaching staff to further embed the Pedagogy Model which was launched in July 2024.

The first keynote session at the conference was delivered by Henry Sauntson, a senior leader in the education sector, with a discussion on formative assessment as a diagnostic tool for adaptive practice. He was followed by Alex Quigley, from the Education Endowment Foundation, who introduced the concept of adaptation in teaching, emphasising its importance in enhancing student learning. Dr Pippa Busch, a Child and Educational Psychologist, concluded the presentations with practical strategies that teachers can implement in their classrooms to support students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Sarah Judge, TDET Pedagogy Lead and the driving force behind the event, said: “Today's sessions were not just informative; they were truly energising! Each speaker brought a wealth of knowledge and fresh ideas that sparked meaningful discussions among colleagues.

“Our focus today was on using effective assessment and adaptation methods. The child is at the centre of our Pedagogy Model, and these methods provide a framework to ensure that every single child’s learning needs are met.

“It was exciting to see all Trust teaching staff so engaged and we have received some excellent feedback about the conference from staff so far, with 97 per cent of attendees committing to using strategies from the conference in their own classroom practice.”

TDET operates seven academies throughout Cambridgeshire, with the multi-academy trust dedicated to raising educational aspirations and outcomes for its 5,000 pupils. The event also provided opportunities for networking, reflection on current practices, and exploration of enhancement strategies. Staff also took part in directed sessions at their respective schools in the afternoon, allowing for immediate application of the morning's learning.

Scott Hudson, Chief Executive of TDET, said: “We are delighted with the success of our bespoke Pedagogy Model, since its launch in July. Developed by our Trust, for our Trust, our innovative and standardised pedagogical approach reflects our commitment to providing world-class education for more than 5,000 pupils across our seven academies.

“At TDET, we believe in the unity of purpose that drives our mission: Trust, Diversity, Excellence and Transformation. Our training conference is a perfect example of how we put these values into action. By focusing on collaboration and innovation, we empower our educators to share best practices and adapt their teaching strategies, ensuring that every student can thrive.”