CONDUCTIVE EDUCATION AWARENESS WEEK MARCH 11-19

Conductive education centres are marking the 20th anniversary of the programme in the UK with an awareness week, March 11-19.

This rehabilitation programme was developed after World War II in Budapest, by Hungarian physician Andr s Peto. Particularly effective for those with cerebral palsy, dyspraxia, Parkinson’s, stroke, multiple sclerosis and head injury, it aims to help children and adults learn to overcome movement problems and become more active and independent.

Events include an annual conductive education group conference, which takes place at the National Institute of Conductive Education in Moseley, Birmingham, March 11, fee pound;60.

The programme includes presenters from Hungary, Finland and Sweden, and a keynote speech on the importance of professional development from Professor Bart McGettrick, Glasgow University.

A series of free events includes an open morning for children at the institute, March 15; a day on the programme for adults with cerebral palsy at Birmingham’s Midlands Arts Centre, March 13; and a professional information seminar for adults at the institute, March 17.

UK centres include: The Pace Centre, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire; The Scottish Centre for Children with Motor Impairments, Cumbernauld, Scotland; Horton Lodge community special school and key learning centre, Leek, Staffordshire; and The Hornsey Trust, London.

The Foundation for Conductive Education in Birmingham hosts the programme for children alongside national curriculum and training work. This includes a degree in conductive education with Wolverhampton University - the only training at this level for conductors outside Hungary.

National Institute of Conductive Education, tel: 012 449 1569; www.conductive-education.org.uk