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Conference

Education Conference 2026: Leading through change

14 October 2026 09:30 - 15:30

The British Library Knowledge Centre, London, NW1 2DB

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Our Education Conference 2026 will bring together school and trust leaders, sector experts and specialist advisers to discuss the challenges, opportunities and decisions facing education organisations today.

Join us at the British Library for a day of practical discussion, insight and the opportunity to connect with colleagues from across the sector.

We're proud to be delivering the conference once again in partnership with the Independent Schools' Bursars Association (ISBA) and the Institute of School Business Leadership (ISBL), helping to ensure the programme reflects the priorities and challenges facing education organisations across the UK.

What we'll be discussing

This year's programme brings together the conversations education leaders are having right now, with each session led by experienced voices from across the sector.

Opening keynote from Dan Worth, International Editor and Head of Thought Leadership, TES

Leading through change: Exploring what past challenges can teach education leaders about navigating change and preparing for the opportunities and pressures ahead.

Fireside chat with Nick Pratt, Director of CIC and Victoria Guest, Legal Director, Education and Charities Team HCR Law

SEND, safety and reform: As SEND reform evolves, schools and trusts must navigate changing expectations while supporting pupils effectively. We'll explore key developments, emerging risks and practical preparation.

Panel discussion chaired by Sue Roxby, Director of ISBA

Education across borders: International opportunities are growing across education. Our panel will examine partnerships, expansion and pupil pathways, alongside the legal, regulatory and reputational considerations.

Panel discussion chaired by Inger Anson, Head of Technology and Innovation, HCR Law

Beyond the classroom: From AI and cyber security to data governance and digital infrastructure, technology is reshaping education. We'll discuss priorities, risks and opportunities.

Panel Q & A chaired by Sam Coutinho, Founder and Director, Sam Coutinho Consulting

Governing growth: As trusts and school groups expand, governance becomes increasingly important. We'll explore accountability, oversight and risk management in larger, more complex organisations.

Industry update with Rachel Parkin and Oliver Daniels, Partners and Joint Heads of Education and Charities Team, HCR Law

The Employment Rights Act: Employment law reforms are approaching. Our specialists will outline the key changes, potential implications for schools and trusts, and practical preparation steps.

 

Meet the speakers

Hear from education leaders, sector specialists and advisers who will be bringing their experience to the day’s discussions, with expertise across governance, safeguarding, technology, employment law and school leadership.

Nat Parnell

CEO, Westcountry Schools Trust

Simon Holden

CEO and Founder, Safehire.ai

Philip Watkins

Partner and Restructuring Advisory, FRP Advisory

Michael Punt

Headmaster, Bromsgrove school

Ross Porter

Head of EMEA Specialty Presales, Dell Technologies

Anne Dellar MBE

Education consultant

Rachel Gwynne

Partner and Head of Charities and Not-for-profit, HCR Law

Guest panellist

Raj Pahuja

Partner and Commercial and International Teams, HCR Law

 

Why attend?

  • Hear different perspectives on the issues affecting schools and trusts
  • Explore practical approaches to governance, risk and organisational growth
  • Understand the impact of developments in SEND, technology and employment law
  • Learn from education leaders and sector specialists
  • Connect with peers facing similar challenges.

Ready to join us?

14 October 2026,
The British Library, London

The conference is relevant to school and trust leaders, governors, trustees, bursars, chief operating officers, finance leaders, HR professionals and those responsible for strategic or operational decision-making.

ISBA and ISBL members receive a 10% discount on ticket prices.

Confirmed partners and sponsors

We're delighted to be delivering this conference in partnership with ISBA and ISBL once again this year. Thank you also to our sponsors, FRP Advisory and Safehire.ai, for their ongoing support in bringing the day to life.

The national association representing bursars and business managers in independent schools, providing professional support, training, guidance and resources to help schools succeed.

The professional body supporting operational leaders in schools and trusts through professional standards, accreditation, development and support.

A specialist business advisory firm supporting organisations, including schools, through financial and operational challenges, helping leaders navigate periods of change and growth.

An AI-driven background screening platform helping schools make safer hiring decisions by identifying digital risk signals that traditional checks may miss.

Book now

Book now

Ticket price is £120 + VAT.

 

Tickets

The numbers below include tickets for this event already in your cart. Clicking "Get Tickets" will allow you to edit any existing attendee information as well as change ticket quantities.
General admission
Ticket price includes VAT.
£144.00
General admission - ISBL members
10% discount for ISBL Members. Ticket includes VAT.
£129.60
General admission - ISBA members
10% discount for ISBA Members. Ticket includes VAT.
£129.60

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