National Autistic Society International Conference

This conference will feature presentations from international experts on the latest thinking and research on the condition. It will take place at the Novotel London West Hotel, Hammersmith, London. Go to: www.autism2002.com.

September 8-13

British Association for the Advancement of Science Annual Science Festival This annual jamboree will include a section for children aged six to 13 with a large variety of events, including a practical demonstration of how volcanoes work; “Making sense of music” - a workshop leading to a performance; and “Dinosaurs in motion”, which challenges children to work out how far dinosaurs could run from their footprints. Activities for adults include lectures, debates, workshops and an exhibition. For details call Tim Watson on 020 7973 3078. More information on: www.britassoc.org.uk.

September 12-14

Building our Sporting Future

Described as the definitive sport and recreation management and education conference of 2002, seminars include “Motivation of young people for sport and physical activity” and “Developing our PE programmes for the future”. It will take place at the Manchester International Convention Centre. Call 01664 565531 or go to: www.sportingfuture.co.uk.

September 20-21

National Small Schools Forum

For teachers and others concerned with education in small primary schools, this conference will take place at Ranmoor Hall, Sheffield. For more information, go to: www.nssf.co.uk.

September 23-29

National Road Safety Week

Brake, the organisers of this event, have put together a free action pack for schools with ideas on how to run road safety activities and create a road safety policy. There is also a list of resources. Phone: 01484 55 99 09. Visit: www.brake.org.uk for information and downloadable resources.

September 28

Grandparents Day

A chance for teachers to focus on the contribution of grandparents. Organiser Age Concern is also looking for nominations for its Grandparent of the Year Award 2002, given to the grooviest gran andor granddad. Details will be posted on September 12 at: www.ageconcern.org.ukgrandparents.

October 14-18

Geography Action Week

The theme this year is “Celebrating Diversity - life in the British Isles today”. For a large range of activities see the reverse of the poster which was sent free to all schools in July. In October you can visit www.geography.org.uk for interactive activities related to the poster. For more information or if you want another poster e-mail: Ian Gregg on igregg@ geography.org.uk.

October 17

North West Regional Exhibition and Conference

This conference, entitled Creative Writing, will focus on a variety of issues, including ways in which teachers might encourage children to write in a range of styles for different audiences and purposes, and on strategies to enhance competence. Speakers include Gervase Phinn. To be held in the Premier Suite, Reebok Stadium, Bolton. For more information go to: www.educational-exhibitions.com.