1. NATT+ Residential Conference19-20 March 2009 “Mainstreaming not Erosion!” Summary

2. “Questions answered - Questions still to be asked” (1) • What was the menu like? • Impressive, up-to-date, relevant and with inspiring high points • What sort of organisation is NATT+? • “A very important and excellent organisation” (Sarah McCarthy-Fry) • Is there DCSF commitment to narrowing the gaps? • Yes – plugging the gaps!!! Research/EHE/Ascription/new targets and “My Department is proud to support and endorse the GRTHM”

3. “Questions answered - Questions still to be asked” (2) • How deep is that commitment? • Evidence of successful pilot projects being scaled up for national implementation – ELamp and NS • But what about the children? • Minister – “Every child must be safe and respected – but just one child (outside this protective boundary) is one too many”

4. “Questions answered - Questions still to be asked” (3) • Are there sufficient resources and trust going into the empowerment of the GRT communities to take constructive action for themselves? • Perhaps not enough when we see what can be achieved by the excellent work of DGLG and others. • Are GRT a ‘hard to reach’ community? • ‘Depends on how hard you are looking!’

5. “Questions answered - Questions still to be asked” (4) • Is community cohesion important? • Well, of course it is if one wants to avoid social breakdown and damaged lives. • But is the promotion of ‘British’ community cohesion just another example of ‘gang- making’? • May be, if it is without intense human rights education and a more robust control of the media.

6. “Questions answered – Questions still to be asked” (5) • Are we convinced that those who are responsible for ITT/EPD/CPD and all other professional trainers are fully cognisant of the size and complexity of the GRT issues? • I leave you to make your judgement on this matter! • Are we convinced NQ doctors should learn on the job? • Is it inappropriate to put diversity/equality/GRT issues in ITT? • Chris and Claire gave us a definitive and stunning answer to that stupid question! • Are GRT really a key part of your LA? (Ian’s pertinent question) • Only you can answer that – but it is sadly unlikely given the political context in too many local authorities.

7. “Questions answered – Questions still to be asked” (6) • So what do we take away from this conference? • A sense of indebtedness to Anthea, ‘the team’ and all the presenters in plenary and workshop sessions. THANK YOU • An acute awareness of the importance of sharing as the real food of professional development. • An acute awareness of our ability to remain innovative and creative and the powerful contribution this makes to education generally.

8. “Questions answered – Questions still to be asked” (6) • The mutually beneficial synergy and close working relationship with the DCSF officials – thanks to Geoff and Andrea • We are also reminded of NATT+ member’s ability to stand up for GRT communities and their own professional self-respect when occasions demand!!! • The ability of ‘hardened’ professionals to be REALLY moved by story and testimony linked to family tragedy and the dignity of our Diana Award recipient. • The importance of community empowerment and self advocacy – a tool to address ‘erosion’. • Recognising when individuals and groups have had a great time as we all have over these two days!

9. Thank you for listening • Have a safe journey home, a great weekend and a really good year. • A.Ivatts@ukgateway.net