What are the most important instructions the delegates should follow?
Presentations should be a maximum of 15 minutes.
All conference rooms are equipped with a computer and projector.
If you want to display a PowerPoint, show images or videos, please make sure you bring all files on a USB drive. (It will not be possible to access materials via email or online/cloud storage.)
There will be HDMI leads to connect laptops if required. Any Mac users will need to bring their own converter.
Please check the schedule carefully so you know the date, time and location of your panel.
Please ensure you arrive 10 minutes early for your scheduled panel to load PowerPoints in advance so that panels can start promptly on time.
A reminder that all delegates are required to abide by the MSA Code of Conduct.
Where and when can I register?
Registration and the main conference activities (plenary sessions, coffee breaks, etc.) will be held in the Frederick Douglass Centre at the Newcastle Helix site.
You can access a map of the city centre HERE. Newcastle Helix is in square A4 on the map grid.
The registration will open on Monday, July 3 at 9 am.
Can I park somewhere near the conference site?
There is a car park at the Newcastle Helix site - The Garage. It is privately owned and charges apply. To see the map of how to reach it click Travelling to Helix Garage Car Park.pdf.
Who should I contact if I need any help?
We will have a team of dedicated student helpers on site to help with any IT issues – they will all be wearing bright yellow t-shirts so you can easily spot them!
Are there any facilities for delegates traveling with children?
A nursing room is available next to the main reception desk in the Frederick Douglass Centre. We will also have a dedicated multipurpose quiet room in the Newcastle University Business School – room # NUBS 1.14.
Any other tips on my arrival in Newcastle?
Please check our 'Plan your Visit' page for more information about Newcastle and the region.
Newcastle is a small city and everything is within easy walking distance, but be prepared for some steep hills going down to the river!
It is also easy to travel by bus or Metro. You can access maps of the city, the Tyne & Wear Metro and the region HERE.
The summer weather in the North of England can be very changeable, so please make sure you also bring some clothing for cooler weather. And don't forget to pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella!
Please check what travel adaptors you will need as the UK uses type G plugs, with a standard voltage of 230v.
Are there any excursions planned after the conference?
Yes! Booking is now open for our two post-conference activities on Saturday 8 July. These activities will incur an additional cost per person, that is payable on booking. Booking is required by Tuesday 4 July. Access the booking forms HERE.
Hadrian's Wall Excursion
10am – 4pm
£30 per person (including packed lunch)
This day will allow participants to explore memories of conquest and empire in the North East of England through the lens of Hadrian's Wall, a structure that has gained mythical status, and will focus on the wall's cultural meaning locally and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Organised in collaboration with the Tyne & Wear Archives and Museums (TWAM), Hadrian's Wall Partnership, and the North East of England African Community Association.
Meeting at Segedunum Roman Fort and Museum in Wallsend at 10am, followed by a bus tour along the Wall to Milecastle 42, taking in many iconic sites along the way! Returning to Newcastle Helix at approx. 4pm.
MAX. 45 participants
African Lives Walking Tour
10am – 12pm
£10 per person
For delegates who would like to learn more about African lives and the African presence in Newcastle, the North East of England African Community Association (NEEACA) are offering a bespoke tour of the northern part of the city, including Newcastle University's main campus.
Meeting at 10am outside the O2 City Hall Newcastle, the tour will take a little over 90 minutes, covering approximately 2 miles of fairly flat terrain.
MAX. 10 participants