On a bright sunny day on Saturday 20th April 2024 the UGLE Universities Scheme biennial conference took place at Sindlesham Court, Sindlesham, Wokingham. The aim of the conference is predominately to bring scheme members from across the world together to share best practice and to help develop and evolve the scheme.

The Conference was well attended by members of Scheme Lodges from across the country and overseas, from as far as Guyana. Welcome and introductions were given by RW Bro James Hilditch, Chairman, W. Bro Mark Heppelthwaite, DepProvGM (Berkshire) and W Bro Mark Boulle.

There were a variety of different speakers and guests, including representatives from a team at UGLE and both the Women’s Grand Lodges as well as members of the Universities Scheme Committee.

Amongst the speakers were VW. Bro Sharon Whatley PGDC, Chair of HFAF Universities Scheme and W. Bro Stephen Whatley DGCO (Gibraltar), Chairman of the University Society Support Network (USSN) who spoke about engagement at Freshers Fairs as well as the exciting launch of the USSN.

The Province of Yorkshire North and East Ridings was well represented. On this occasion with Bros, Sammy Caygill and Josh Igoe from Eboracum Lodge, No. 1611 as well as W. Bro James E.G. Steele ProvAGDC from Juno Lodge, No. 10001 (image below).

Eboracum received a warm welcome with it being the Lodge’s first attendance at a Conference since officially joining the Scheme this year. Whilst W. Bro Steele was congratulated on his role as secretary of the USSN.

The three brethren made new acquaintances, shared ideas and had a thoroughly enjoyable time.