A shifting policy landscape, budget constraints and staffing issues are nothing new for school leaders.
However, the current rate of change means that the need to get fresh perspectives, share ideas and see best practice in action is more critical than ever.
This is why 4,000 education leaders will head to the NEC for two days this November for the Schools & Academies Show (SAAS).
Topics covered will include making the most of current funding levels and developing an effective SEND provision, plus insights into the Schools White Paper and the Curriculum and Assessment Review.
Ofsted’s Chief Inspector, Sir Martyn Oliver, will set out the inspection changes, while former education secretaries Baroness Morris of Yardley and Lord Blunkett will be joined by former minister of state for schools Nick Gibb for a Question Time-style debate.
Inspiration from outside of the world of education comes from political journalist Robert Peston, and F1 Red Bull’s performance coach, Bradley Scanes, will offer his views on developing high-performing teams.
The exhibition floor will host more than 200 organisations. LessonUp will demo AI tools that can turn a simple PowerPoint presentation into an interactive lesson, while Peach Wellness Academy offers bite-sized wellbeing training designed with the TikTok generation in mind.
Arbor, BBC Bitesize, YPO and Sage will also be on hand with practical support for schools.
With two full days to explore, leaders will have the time to absorb ideas, swap experiences and head back to school with something concrete to share.
Registration is free for schools, trusts, colleges, universities, local authorities and charities at schoolsandacademiesshow.co.uk.
Key event details:
- Schools & Academies Show – co-located with the EdTech Summit, Independent Schools Conference and HE Transformation Expo
- Event dates: November 19th and 20th, 2025
- Location: NEC, Birmingham
- Free for all schools, including MATs, academies, independent schools, colleges, universities, local authorities, and central government and the wider public sector.
