Inter-ELTA Swap Shop Organized by HELTA Germany – IATEFL Edinburgh 2025 Highlights (16 May 2025, Online)

The idea for an Inter-ELTA Swap Shop was first developed in 2024 to create a space where German ELTAs could share insights from the IATEFL Annual Conference. After a successful first event, this year’s session, held on 16 May 2025, saw even greater participation and enthusiastic support from ELTAs across Germany. Organized efficiently and attractively promoted by HELTA, the event brought together around 25 members from seven different German ELTAs and other teaching associations.

The goal of the swap shop was to provide a platform for those who had attended the IATEFL Conference in Edinburgh to share their experiences, personal highlights, and takeaways with colleagues who couldn’t attend. The event featured a rich exchange of ideas, covering not only individual sessions and networking opportunities but also broader themes such as strategies for effective conference participation and the growing role of AI in language teaching. Discussions also touched on cultural perspectives in English language education, making it a multifaceted and engaging session.

Several ELTA members shared their insights, including Maria Szugfil (ELTA Rhine), Randy Perry (MELTA), Judith Mader (ELTAF), Lewis Jaquest (HELTA), Lucy Tilney (IATEFL), Evan Frendo (ELTA-BB), Andy Vogt-Nas (ELTAS), Rudi Camerer (ELTAF), Mike Budden (ELTABB), and Jane Carvell (ELTA Rhine).

Maria Szugfil opened with her impressions of the conference, which she described as “epic,” using each letter of the word to summarize aspects such as the energy and passion of participants, the challenges of crowded sessions, and the pleasure of attending without the pressure of organizing or presenting. Others echoed her sentiments, reflecting on the benefits of professional development, the smaller but more intimate exhibition, and the value of spontaneous networking. A key takeaway was the importance of scholarships – still available until mid-June – for those considering attending IATEFL 2026.

Among the most memorable conference moments shared were the moving Peace Poem and the Hands Up project offering educational support for children in Gaza; Nick Bilbrough’s inspiring session; insights from Associates Day; and experiences with the IATEFL mentoring scheme, both as mentors and mentees. Other highlights included a session on The Values Wheel by Paul Dummett and a presentation on cultural diversity in English teaching by a major Chinese publisher. The group also discussed practical advice on preparing for and delivering effective conference presentations.

Participants agreed that the swap shop format is highly beneficial, especially for those unable to attend the conference. It offers a collaborative way to extend the value of IATEFL and support peer learning. There was strong consensus that the event should be held annually, ideally four weeks after the IATEFL Conference, and publicised in advance to encourage even broader participation. Suggestions for future events included extending the duration for more informal networking and involving additional teaching associations both in Germany and internationally.