The Schools & Academies Show is back at the Excel London in May 2026, bringing together thousands of education leaders from across the UK for a day focused on strategy, innovation and practical solutions.
Designed for senior school and trust leaders, the show offers a valuable opportunity to connect with peers, hear from influential voices in education and explore market-leading suppliers shaping the future of the sector.
A Stronger, Broader Show Floor
In 2026, the show floor will once again host both the SEND Conference and the School Estates Summit. This ensures visitors can access tailored content and connect with a more diverse range of suppliers addressing the most pressing challenges in education today.
From financial sustainability to inclusive provision and long-term infrastructure planning, the event reflects the real priorities facing schools and trusts.
CPD Agenda Now Live
This year’s CPD-certified programme is packed with actionable insights, practical advice and expert guidance. Sessions will cover:
- What the Schools White Paper really means for schools and trusts
- Managing budgets in a volatile education landscape
- Building high-performing teams and strong trusts
- Improving attendance, behaviour and inclusion
- Rethinking SEND support through innovation and generative AI
- Delivering effective digital transformation
- Strengthening estates and long-term infrastructure planning
Confirmed Speakers Include:
- Becks Boomer-Clark, Chief Executive, Lift Schools
- Angi Gibson, President, NAHT
- Tom Rees, Chief Executive Officer, Ormiston Academies Trust
- Emma Balchin, Chief Executive, National Governance Association
- Carl Ward, Chief Executive, City Learning Trust
- Jo Rowey, President, ASCL
- Emma Hendry, Chief People Officer, Exceed Academies Trust
- Tom Garry, Director, STEP Institute of Education
- Claire Pannell, Executive Director of Professional Services, Anthem Schools Trust
- Mark Pritchard, Director of Education, Pioneer Educational Trust
- Stuart McGregor, Operations Director, NASPM
New for 2026: Enhanced Features
SBL Networking Area
In partnership with the Institute of School Business Leadership (ISBL), the new SBL Networking Area provides a dedicated space for school business leaders to:
- Access 1-to-1 advice from leading suppliers
- Connect with peers facing similar operational and financial pressures
- Take part in focused discussions around operational leadership
The Inclusive Classroom
Launching at the London show, the Inclusive Classroom will bring SEND provision to life on the show floor. Hosted by leading SEND suppliers, this immersive feature will showcase practical, real-world examples of inclusive classroom design and provision for schools and MATs.
Strong Partnerships at the Heart of the Show
Partnership continues to be central to the Schools & Academies Show.
In 2026, FED Education will host its bi-annual NEA meetings at both shows, supporting strategic discussion around long-term education planning at regional, national and global levels.
Following a successful collaboration in Birmingham, the National Governance Association will host a dedicated Leadership and Governance stream at Excel London, bringing together hundreds of decision-makers and sector influencers.
Register Now
Registration is now live. Join us at Excel London on 7th May for a day of high-quality CPD, innovative solutions and practical insights you can take straight back to your school or trust.
Secure your free pass and be part of the conversation shaping the future of education.
