Making sure the IATEFL International Conference is a safe and enjoyable event for all
The safety, security and wellbeing of attendees has always been a primary concern when we plan our international conference each year. Clearly, following the last two years, it has taken on even greater significance as we aim to ensure the event is as COVID-safe as we can possibly make it.
Even though restrictions have been removed from travelling to the United Kingdom, as well as many of the requirements for individuals when in public places, the IATEFL conference will nonetheless have a range of steps in place, as well as benefitting from the venue’s measures which have seen it awarded the ‘We’re good to go’ mark, an industry standard demonstrating its commitment to implementing relevant government and public health guidance in relation to COVID-19.
So, what should you expect, and what are we asking you to do whilst you’re with us in Belfast?
What IATEFL and the venue will be doing.
- Hand sanitising facilities are provided at entry points, and key locations throughout the venue.
- Your conference badge will be printed directly on site for you, rather than pre-printed and handed to you.
- The venue itself uses 100% fresh air, rather than air-conditioning, which is heated or cooled as required by the air handling units to a temperature calculated and controlled by the building management system.
- Clear directional signage around the venue is designed to prevent bottlenecks.
- The venue has an enhanced cleaning service focusing in particular on high touch points.
What we’re asking conference attendees to do.
- We’ll be asking all conference attendees to wear a face mask at all times when in the conference venue, except for eating, drinking and presenting.
- Please be respectful of the personal choice of others when you meet them. Some people will be happy to hug, others will prefer to keep their distance.
- We remind all attendees of the importance of washing your hands with soap and water when you can - this is the most effective way of cleaning your hands.
- We advise you to test yourself in advance of attending the conference.
- If you do have COVID-like symptoms during the conference we ask that you do not attend the venue.
Whilst all of this might feel a long way from the normal key focuses of the IATEFL conference: the presentations, the workshops, the networking, the Exhibition, the Careers Fair and the evening social events, if we all work together and follow the guidance we should have a safe, as well as an enjoyable and valuable, experience.
See you in Belfast!
More about the conference and to book your place
You can find out more information about the conference, and how to attend, by visiting our conference website.