Designing cross-curricular tasks to build competence in languages (CPD workshop for teachers): 12-3pm 16th March in Newcastle

Teachers in the North East of England are invited to this special CPD workshop with Dr Jennifer Eddy, a leading global expert on World Language Education and task-based, real-world approaches to improving language competence.
During a 3-hour practical session, teachers will learn how to design cross-curricular, trans-disciplinary tasks for learners at all stages, which will enhance their engagement, enthusiasm and their competence in the languages they are learning.
Registration required. Places are limited, so book early!
Who is it for?
- Teachers at all levels (Primary, Secondary, FE, HE) in the North East of England (North East and Tees Valley)
When will it happen?
- The workshop will be held at 12.00-15.00 on 16th March 2026 in Newcastle. Venue details will be provided to those with places for the session.
What is the activity?
This is a 3-hour practical CPD workshop for teachers with Dr Jennifer Eddy, a leading exponent of task-based, multi-disciplinary curriculum design to support pupils’ engagement and competence at all levels of language learning.
Jennifer will explain the rationale and approach for task-based curriculum design and assessment, where languages are a feature of real-world tasks that enthuse and engage pupils. She will lead teachers through the process of designing cross-curricular tasks for their own learners.
This approach integrates multiple disciplines and subjects to create a more holistic and interconnected learning experience for students. It aims to break down the traditional silos between subjects and encourage students to make connections between different areas of knowledge.
By incorporating elements from various disciplines, cross-curricular task-based activities can provide a more comprehensive understanding of complex concepts and issues and focus on real-world topics and scenarios.
Teachers will gain confidence in designing and assessing tasks, which incorporate building competence in pupils’ language learning and which bring multiple benefits – from building creativity and adaptability, to knowledge acquisition around the subject of the tasks.
Teacher guidance will be provided to all who register for the session.
How do I get involved?
Registration is required. To register, email info@expressyourselfne.com with the following information:
- the name of the activity (Cross Curricular Tasks workshop with Dr Jennifer Eddy)
- the name and address of your school
- how many teachers you would like to attend the session
- the teacher contact name(s) and email(s)
Teachers will receive a confirmation email if they have a place and a waiting list will be in operation. Venue details and guidance notes will be sent out in advance of the workshop.
Further information and links
Dr Jennifer Eddy is Associate Professor and Programme Director of World Language Education at Queens College, City University of New York, USA. She directs professional development initiatives for schools and universities on curriculum and performance assessment design.
Jennifer has authored books supporting task-based and multi-disciplinary curriculum design to support language teaching and learning.
Click here for Teachers as Curriculum Designers for Transcultural Communicative Competence (Jennifer Eddy, Bloomsbury, 2025)
Click here for Designing World Language Curriculum for Intercultural Communicative Competence (Jennifer Eddy, Bloomsbury, 2022)
She is currently developing a World Language Education Handbook with contributors from across the globe, which will be published in 2026 and includes a chapter from International Newcastle about Newcastle City of Languages and the Festival.
Who is organising this?
The event is organised by Dr Jennifer Eddy, City University of New York (World Language Education Programme Director), working with International Newcastle and Newcastle City Council.
Contact: Declan Baharini, Festival Coordinator
Email: info@expressyourselfne.com


