The 2025 SCoTENS Annual Conference took place in the stunning surroundings of the Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen, on 16 & 17 October 2025. This year’s theme, “A New Era for Professionalism: Teacher Identity, Authenticity, and Agency,” brought together educators, researchers, and policymakers to reflect on the evolving nature of teacher professionalism in a rapidly changing world.
The conference theme invited participants to critically examine how societal shifts, technological advancements—particularly the rise of AI—and evolving education policies are reshaping what it means to be a professional teacher. Discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities these changes present for maintaining teacher identity, authenticity, and agency in contemporary classrooms.
Delegates explored the multifaceted influences on teacher professionalism, including policy frameworks, curriculum reforms, and societal expectations. The conference aimed to illuminate both the pressures and possibilities shaping the future of teaching, with a focus on pedagogy, collaboration, and professional autonomy.
Key questions guiding the discussions included:
- How and why has teacher professionalism transformed in recent times?
- What factors are influencing, shaping, and defining teacher professionalism today?
- What strategies can sustain teacher identity, authenticity, and agency?
- What are the risks and challenges posed by rapid societal and technological change?
For further information and photos, please see the conference section of the website!!