ArborFest FAQs

Before the event starts

Q: I can't access the sign up page to register for a new session

A: This is most likely an issue with your browser - for example, installed extensions could be preventing you from accessing web pages, your browsing data (e.g. your cookies) could need clearing, or you may need to upgrade to a newer version of your browser. For the best experience, we suggest using Google Chrome or Firefox and clearing your cache by going to your browser settings.

Q: Is there a limit on the number of people who can come from my school/MAT?

A: Nope! Bring as many staff as you like. Your colleagues can register for sessions here: http://bit.ly/arborfest-november

Q: How do I join a session at ArborFest?

A: It's simple!

1. Sign up to the webinars you'd like to attend in the schedule. You can join us for just one session, or for multiple if there are a few you'd like to join. Make sure you use your school/MAT email address when you register

2. Check your inbox for your confirmation email(s). You'll receive one email for each session you sign up to - the email will contain your access link for the session

3. Don't worry if you can't find your original confirmation emails - you'll also get a reminder email for each session 30 minutes before it starts. Just click the link in the email to join the webinar at the start time!

Q: Are there any technical things I should check before joining ArborFest?

A: You don't need to download anything to access the vast majority of our webinars. However, if you're coming to a Feedback Forum or "New Feature Reveal: My Classroom and My Homepage", make sure you download Zoom ahead of time from: https://zoom.us/download

Beyond that, we recommend you:

1. Make sure you have a reliable internet connection so that you can watch the sessions easily

2. Consider using Google Chrome or Internet Explorer for the best experience

3. Check you have a microphone and camera on your computer/laptop/device - this is so that you can ask live questions during the festival (if you'd like to!)

Q: I can't come anymore - what do I do?

A: Not to worry! We know that plans change sometimes. There's no need to cancel your tickets - and we'll send you the recordings for the sessions you registered for when the festival is over, so you won't really miss out.

During the event

Q: I can't hear anything in the session/webinar!

A: You've probably not enabled sound in BigMarker (our webinar tool) yet. You should see a button called "Click for Sound" in the middle of the presenter's screen - just click that, and the sound should work!

Q: Can I network with other schools attending the festival?

A: You certainly can! We've set up a virtual Coffee Room which you can drop into at any time during 12th-13th November. You can join the coffee room here: http://bit.ly/ArborFest-Coffee-Room

Q: Will you share slides and a recording of the sessions?

A: Yes! You'll be sent a recording of the session automatically once it ends. We'll then share all slides on Monday 16th November by email

Q: How do I join the "stage" to ask a question or share my thoughts?

A: At the end of each session there will be opportunity for schools and MATs to "go on stage" virtually to ask questions or share their thoughts. To do this, ask to speak in the "Chat" tab on the right of your screen during the session. The presenter will be reviewing this, and may then invite you to join the stage. Once they've enabled your camera and mic, all you need to do is click the mic and camera icons to turn them on! See what they look like below: