The Princess Royal is the guest of honour at a British Nutrition Foundation conference for secondary teachers with an interest in food technology, home economics and science.

It will be held in Southampton on June 20 on the theme, “Emerging issues for the next Millennium”. Professor Alan Malcolm of the Institute of Food Research and Louise Davies of the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority are among the speakers. Topics include: the introduction of new curriculum subjects (A-level food technology and GCSE biotechnology). Fee: pound;45. Details: Georgina Strutt, BNF, High Holborn House, 52-54 High Holborn, London WC1, tel: 0171 404 6504.

* The Design and Technology Association’s annual conference and exhibition on the theme Future Directions will be held at the Chamberlain Hotel, Birmingham, June 26-27. Speakers include: Estelle Morris, minister with responsibility for schools and the curriculum, and Sir Dominic Cadbury, chair of the Confederation of British Industry’s national manufacturing council and the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority. Fifty workshops and seminars will cover primary, secondary, special needs and initial teacher education. Fee: pound;175, pound;155 members. Details: Gill Turnbull, DATA, 16 Wellesbourne House, Walton Road, Wellesbourne, Warwickshire CV35 9JB, tel: 01789 470007.

* Goldsmiths’ College, London University, is looking for 40 members of the public to take part in designforum at the Design Museum, Butler’s Wharf, London SE1, on June 13. Organised with the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority among others, forum members will be able, through a series of activities, to challenge experts about the design of everyday items such as mobile telephones, kettles and packaged foods. Free admission (includes lunch). Booking essential. Details: Professor Richard Kimbell, tel: 0171 919 7781; e-mail: r.kimbell@gold.ac.uk

* The International Conference on Design and Technology Educational Research and Curriculum Development at Loughborough University, August 24-26, is hoping to attract more teachers. Likely topics are: gender, the environment, industryeducation links, initial teacher education and foodtextiles. Details: Mrs E Havard Williams, IDATER administrator, Loughborough University, Leicestershire LE11 3TU, tel: 01509 222644 (24 hours); e-mail: E.Havard-Williams@lboro.ac.uk

* “Quality and achievement” will be the main theme of the 21st Design and Technology Education Show to be held at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, on November 19-21. Details: International Craft and Hobby Fair, Dominic House, Seaton Road, Highcliffe, Dorset BH23 5HW, tel: 01425 272711; e-mail: info@ichf.co.uk