Marjon YCW Conference 2026: Youth Work is....Turning Pages, Changing Lives

Marjon YCW Conference 2026: Youth Work Is .... Turning Pages, Changing Lives

Welcome to Youth Work Is… Turning Pages, Changing Lives. This year’s conference explores how literacy - in its widest sense, including reading, writing, storytelling and research - can be a powerful tool for empowerment, voice, and social change in youth and community work.

At a time when young people face increasing inequality and barriers to opportunity, the ability to read, write, research and critically engage with the world has never been more important. Together, we will examine how youth workers can support young people not only to access knowledge but to shape their own narratives, challenge inequality, and influence the world around them. Whether you're a youth worker, community practitioner, educator, or emerging professional, this conference invites you to reflect, connect, and co-create.

Join us as we explore how youth work helps young people find their voice, tell their stories, and shape their futures. Be part of a collective effort to turn pages, not just in books, but in lives, communities, and systems.

Timings for the event

9.00 – 9.30: Arrival, registration and networking

9.30 – 9.45: Opening the book (welcome and introductions)

9.45 – 10.05: Hannah Jordan, Youth Focus South West: Rewriting the Narrative: Youth Work and Anti-Racism

10.05 – 10.15: Between the Lines Discussion Time

10.15 – 10.20: Bookmark (breathing space): In the spirit of Enid Blyton, “It’s lovely to sit quietly for a bit and just enjoy things, isn’t it?”

10.20 – 10.40: Kerry Bidewell, Promoting Children in Plymouth: Turning the Page on Poverty: Collaborative Approaches

10.40 – 10.50: Between the Lines Discussion Time

10.50 – 11.10: Comfort break: Guiding by Paddington Bear, “It’s always a good idea to take a moment… perhaps with marmalade.”

11.10 – 12.10: Writing the Next Chapter: Generating Research Ideas

12.10 – 12.30: Creating a Shared Library: Developing and Sharing Ideas

12.30 – 1.15: Lunch Break: In the words of C.S. Lewis (1961), “Eating and reading are two pleasures that combine admirably.”

1.15 – 2.00: Choose Your Chapter (workshops 1 and 2)

Workshop 1: Writing together for publication, with Jon Ord and Rob Reynolds

Workshop 2: Writing creatively to author our own stories, with Tracy and Caroline

2.00 – 2.15: Bookmark (breathing space): Embracing the philosophy of Winnie-the-Pooh, “Sometimes I sits and thinks, and sometimes I just sits.”

2.15 – 3.00: Choose Your Chapter (workshops 1 and 2, repeated)

3.00 – 3.30: Closing the Book: Reflections and Next Steps

Places are limited, so we encourage you to sign up soon to secure your spot at what is sure to be an enjoyable and inspiring event.

Book now - registration closes midday Monday 1 June

Please contact Tracy Hayes if you require any further information at thayes@marjon.ac.uk

We look forward to welcoming you to Marjon.

Please note: Paid parking is available on site. Payment should be made on arrival and can be backdated until midnight on the day.
Payment is made via the RingGo app, by phoning 0203 0460010. If you have any difficulty then please visit the Welcome Desk for assistance.