ISPEC was founded over 40 years ago by teachers in the independent sector. Their main focus has always been to bring Physical Education and Games teachers together, from both Preparatory and Senior Schools, for a series of professional developmental workshops.
The committee consists of teachers representing all areas of the independent sector, in terms of both age range and gender. Its members feel that this is key to the Conference’s success in providing a balanced programme. Currently the committee is made up of teachers from Rokeby, Bradfield, North London Collegiate, Repton Dubai, Reed’s, Reigate Grammar and Claire’s Court.
In recent years, schools such as Millfield, Epsom College, Charterhouse, Oundle and Sevenoaks have hosted the two-day residential conference. Since 2009 Bryanston has become the spiritual ‘home’ of ISPEC.
The main aim of the conference is to allow teachers to experience a range of activities, delivered by experts in their field, providing them with the potential to cover a years’ INSET over two days. The committee has worked hard to establish relationships with a large and varied group of highly qualified and experienced coaches. Recent tutors have included:
Rugby:
Tosh Askew (assistant Academy manager, Leicester Tigers)
Ben Ryan (current Fiji 7s head coach, former England 7s head coach)
Phil Larder (former England defence coach),
Netball:
Karen Atkinson (head coach to Herefordshire Mavericks and former England captain)
Cricket:
Keith Medlycott (cricket professional and former Surrey head coach)
Swimming:
Nick Gillingham (double Olympic medallist, world champion, world record holder)
Hockey:
Brett Garrard (263 England and Great Britain caps; represented Team GB at two Olympic Games),
Exam-based PE:
John Ireland (lecturer and author of exam-based Physical Education textbooks)
Sarah van Wely (author of exam-based textbooks and revision guides)
The conference runs during the Easter holidays with, on average, between 70 and 90 teachers attending, representing approximately 50-60 different schools from across the country.
In addition to the lectures and workshops, the conference also includes a trade exhibition, allowing nearly 40 exhibitors to show their wares, covering all aspects of the sporting industry from clothing to software and photography to equipment and kit.
The conference has also attracted a number of high profile sponsors: OPRO, Kukri & Sweet Chariot. These sponsors are invaluable to the conference, as they allow the committee to deliver an extensive programme at an affordable price.
All involved with the conference are very much aware of the value of providing contemporary coaching education, academic Physical Education opportunities, as well as unrivalled networking opportunities.
ISPEC, April 14-16, Bryanston School, Dorset. Visit www.ispec.co.uk for more details. Closing date for applications is March 7. The Conference is a non-profit making organisation.
