Successful conference for NCMA
10/11/2009
This weekend saw hundreds of delegates enjoy the sell-out NCMA
Annual Conference in Leeds.
The conference was a great success with delegates enjoying the
mix of plenary sessions, interactive workshops, and exhibition
stands.
On Saturday morning delegates were welcomed to the conference by
NCMA’s Chair, Susanna Dawson and heard from NCMA’s President,
Da
me Gillian Pugh.
They were followed by our keynote speaker and international
author Annabel Karmel, who gave an inspirational and
heart-wrenching talk on how she used the grief from loosing her
first child as a catalyst for improving children’s lives through
healthy eating.
Delegates were then able to participate in their choice of
workshops, which included: practical ideas for improving physical
development in children; building a healthy future for children and
families; advice on working towards the best inspection outcome;
sharing books and rhymes; communicating effectively with children;
and baby signing.
During the breaks delegates were able to explore the variety of
exhibition stands, grab some Christmas goodies and take advantage
of the special offers available. Delegates also had a go on the
tombola and brought raffle tickets, which raised over £1300 for the
Gail Hall Memorial Fund.
Delegates were then welcomed back together by Andrew Fletcher
and Catherine Farrell, NCMA joint Chief Executives, who spoke about
the work that NCMA has done over the last year, including an update
on progress with last year’s resolutions. It was then followed by
this year’s Annual Policy debate, which was a lively discussion
where all the resolutions were passed.
The conference was capped off with a dinner dance where
delegates dressed up, got their party shoes on and danced to I love
to Boogie, by T-Rex, and many more hits. Photos
from the dinner dance, can be viewed and purchased here
(external link).
We look forward to seeing you next year at our 2010 Annual
Conference which will be taking place in Bristol on Friday, 12 and
Saturday, 13 November 2010.