Info for teachers
“Shared Planet conferences get my unreserved recommendation. I wish that every interested Sixth Form student had the opportunity to attend. After the conference my students were bursting with ideas and enthusiasm which lasted all year.” Marion McCartney, Teacher, Belper School
How suitable is this event for students?
Shared Planet is designed specifically for students between the ages of 16 and 24. Being the largest student conference in Europe, it is well known for its professionalism and its success in engaging students with key global issues. The conference provides students with an opportunity to explore global issues with their peer group. It ensures that the focus is on learning and interaction with like-minded students.
What experience does People & Planet have of working with students?
People & Planet has been working with university students for the last thirty years and with Sixth Form students for the last five years. We have engaged students at 75 universities and 1000 Sixth Form schools and colleges. People & Planet also has extensive experience of holding conferences for students in the 16 to 24 age-group. This year marks the tenth annual Shared Planet which over the years has provided a platform for learning and inspiration for over 6000 students. Our student conferences have received rave reviews from students and teachers alike.
“Seeing the way that the workshops and speakers informed and inspired my Sixth Form People and Planet group made the Shared Planet conferences I’ve attended with them among the greatest highlights of my teaching career.” Teacher at Shared Planet 2006
“Awesome! All the speakers and workshops were really inspiring” Student at Shared Planet 2005
“Powerful & inspiring!” Student at Shared Planet 2006
How does the event relate to student coursework?
The work we do with Sixth Form students throughout the school year on global issues such as trade and climate change is based upon the principles of active global citizenship. We believe that it is essential not only for students to learn about global issues, but to engage with them and translate their learning into positive action. This same principle is applied to Shared Planet.
Shared Planet presents an opportunity for students to learn about global issues that apply to courses such as RE, PSHE, Economics, Geography and Citizenship, to name only a few. With the increasing emphasis on global citizenship as a curricular aim, such opportunities to incorporate a global perspective have become more important than ever.
Our plenary speakers are experts working in the fields of media, campaigning, and government and come from both Britain and the developing world. Students are encouraged to become active in working towards solutions and have an opportunity to discuss these solutions with both experts and their peers during interactive workshops. With over 50 workshops students will be spoiled for choice of how to apply their learning
“Very thought provoking and inspiring.” Student at Shared Planet 2005
“Students who attended the conference enjoyed mixing with university students, and gained hugely in confidence. The experience featured prominently in (and certainly enriched) their UCAS personal statements.” Teacher at Shared Planet 2006
What about Health & Safety issues?
Health and safety aspects of all facilities forming part of the conference weekend are assessed by our trained staff. All reasonable precautions are taken throughout the weekend including the constant access to First-Aiders and presence of stewards at all conference and accommodation venues. We have full public liability insurance.
“People & Planet is a highly regarded and reputable organisation. Their annual `Shared Planetī conference has been a successful, well-organised event for several years.” CAFOD
What is your policy on teachers attending the event?
Any teachers interested are very welcome to attend Shared Planet. We cannot, however, provide separate accommodation. Teachers should seek their own accommodation or be prepared to sleep on the floor space provided for students.
Students are also welcome to attend the event on their own. People & Planet conducts a full health and safety assessment and meets all health and safety requirements. However we do not act as guardians to students attending the conference.
If you require any further information please email us or call the Shared Planet team on 01865 245678.