Bursaries for Early Career and trainee teachers to attend the HA annual conference, 15-16 May 2026

We are excited to introduce the ‘Jim and Bob’ Bursaries for Early Career and trainee teachers, generously funded by Ian and Pat Dawson. These bursaries commemorate the contributions of two contrasting but equally inspirational history educators. Jim Shields was an outstanding classroom teacher throughout his career in Liverpool where Ian had the good fortune to have him as his teacher for O-level and A-level history. Bob Unwin was a leading figure nationally in history teaching, a much-respected author, workshop leader, historian and innovator for over 30 years and Ian’s history PGCE tutor at Leeds University.

In 2026 the HA annual conference will take place from Friday 15–Saturday 16 May at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead. The bursaries will cover a two-day ticket plus a contribution towards accommodation and travel to support two early career or beginning teachers to attend the HA Conference. Applications are invited from history teachers who are:

1. in training or at Early Career level
2. who have not previously attended an HA Conference
3. in either primary or secondary state funded schools of any type/designation
4. training or teaching in the historic counties of Lancashire and Yorkshire.

To apply for a bursary funded place, please first ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria above.  

Applicants should supply up to 300 words explaining how they hope attendance will contribute to the development of their teaching and to the benefit of their students – and how the conference provides opportunities otherwise unavailable to them.

Applications must be made by 13 March 2026 and will be considered by a panel whose decision is final. Successful applicants will be informed by early April.

The successful bursary holders would be expected to:

1. attend both days of the conference
2. write a short article or report of up to 300 words on what they have found the most valuable aspects of the conference and what they hope to build on to benefit their students. This must be submitted within one month of attendance at the conference.

Applications can be submitted here: HA Conference 2026: Bursary applications – Fill in form

Our thanks to Ian and Pat Dawson for giving new teachers this valuable opportunity.