Curiosity Conference 2025

You are invited to join us at our second, Curiosity Conference!

The Curiosity Conference is designed to be a dynamic event where evidence from research and practice will be shared for those eager to learn and do more with whole systems, place-based approaches to tackling physical activity inequality. This Col/Laboratory event will inspire, celebrate success, showcase impact and connect those passionate about making a difference in their communities.

What to expect
At the heart of all presentations will be interactive and engaging conversations exploring evidence of change, success and impact. You can also expect:

• Keynote speakers that activate curiosity and inspire action
• Workshops to experience, engage, connect and apply
• Roundtable discussions to debate, sense check and challenge thinking
• Opportunities to be active and interact with some of our place-based work initiatives, whilst having the chance to connect with others across different systems and places

Call for presentations:

We welcome research and practice colleagues working with whole systems, place-based approaches in physical activity promotion to share evidence of success, impact and change. We ask that an abstract is submitted (max 500 words) detailing your methods, findings and ripple effects. You can choose your presentation format from a seminar, workshop or roundtable discussion. Refer to our website for more information.

Speakers, Facilitators and Themes:

• Dr. Hussain Al Zubhaddi - TV doctor, Royal College of GPs Lifestyle and Physical Activity Clinical Champion
• Professor Stuart Fairclough - Professor of Physical Activity, Health & Wellbeing
• School Leaders from across Pennine Lancashire sharing how they have used child movement data to increase physical activity levels in their schools
• Burnley Outdoor Town
• Local Madrassahs involved with the Active Madrassah programs
• Blackburn Greenhouses Project with the Wildlife Trust
• Hyndburn 'Walk To The Match' campaign with Accrington Stanley Football Club
• Let me Move collaboration with Activity Alliance
• Many more representing leisure, local government, health, faith, voluntary and education sectors

This list will continue to evolve and we will send out updates of facilitators up to the event.

Who Should Attend?

Anyone passionate about making a difference in their communities with a focus on place-based ways of working.
This could include other Sport England Place Partners, researchers, programme leaders, relationship managers and colleagues from across healthcare, education, local government, leisure or VCFSE systems.

Event Details:

• Fully accessible
• Free to attend
• Refreshments will be provided throughout the day
• Lunch will be available to purchase at reasonable prices
• What to bring - we recommend you come prepared for being outdoors- active footwear and outside layers may be needed.

Location and Directions:

• Address: Burnley, BB11 1BH
• Main Venue: Burnley Mechanics. Workshop and Seminars will be on-site or within 5 5-minute walk/wheel, giving time for some informal connections between sessions AND an opportunity to be part of #BurnleyOutdoorTown Movement.

Burnley bus station is a five-minute walk from Burnley Mechanics Theatre, with plenty of transport links available. The closest bus stop is the Mechanics Institute on Manchester Road. There are three train stations in Burnley, all within walking distance of the Mechanics Theatre – Burnley Manchester Road, Burnley Central, and Burnley Barracks.

Join us to activate your thinking, celebrate achievements, and connect with those dedicated to enhancing physical activity in our communities.

**Register Now **

For more information, visit our website or contact us at [email protected]

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Burnley Mechanics Theatre, Manchester Road, Burnley, United Kingdom