Book
03 Mar 2026 09:30 - 16:45

Fielder Centre, Hatfield, AL10 9TP

Share this

The 2026 National Early Years Conference offers a full day of inspiration and professional learning for those dedicated to giving children the best start in life. Bringing together EY practitioners, leaders, and researchers from across the UK, the programme explores the elements that matter most in early years education - from the power of play and the importance of relationships to high-quality pedagogy and the Characteristics of Effective Learning. 

Centred on the theme Building Strong Foundations for a Lifetime of Learning, the event blends inspiration with practical strategies across the themes of play, relationships, pedagogy, and leadership. 

Whether you are working directly with children, leading teams, or shaping early years provision, this conference will equip you with the tools, knowledge, and renewed sense of purpose to make a lasting difference. 

This conference will give you a chance to: 

  • Hear from leading voices in early years education
  • Take part in interactive workshops packed with evidence-informed strategies
  • Network with peers, leaders, and researchers who share your passion for early childhood education
  • Leave with fresh ideas and resources to enrich your everyday practice 

 

£195 +VAT – Early Bird price (available until Friday, 19th December 2025) 

£233.50 +VAT – Full Price (from Saturday 20th December 2025)  

Early Years conference 2026 agenda
PDF
189.21 KB

Dr Stella Louis – The Power of Schemas in Early Childhood Education

Renowned early years consultant Dr Stella Louis will unpack how schema theory underpins children’s learning and development. This keynote will show how educators can design rich, responsive environments that inspire deep, meaningful learning experiences.

Helen Battelley – Movement Matters in the Early Years

Internationally recognised trainer and author Helen Battelley will highlight how movement underpins early development. This workshop introduces the basics of brain–body connectivity and demonstrates why movement is essential for learning and wellbeing in the early years.

Olivia Corbin-Phillip – Igniting Literacy Through the Power of Storytelling

Explore the key differences between storytelling and reading aloud. Olivia will share practical tips on choosing books and examples from her own practice, showing how giving children choice and creative control can build confidence, imagination, and a love of learning.

Workshops line-up 

  • Shardi Vaziri – The Freedom to Imagine: Loose Parts as a Pedagogy of Possibility
    Practical ways to use everyday materials to unlock creativity, problem-solving, and open-ended play.

 

  • Jo Watkins – Belonging Begins Here
    How to nurture a culture of belonging through inclusive practice, equitable approaches, and strong family partnerships.

 

  • Nicki Waller – Leading from Where You Are: Empowering Every Role in Early Years
    Exploring how leadership is present in every role, from teaching assistants to senior leaders, and how to strengthen team confidence and purpose. 

 

Beyond the sessions 

Alongside the keynote and workshops, the conference offers: 

  • A buzzing exhibition space showcasing innovative early years resources, services, and tools.
  • Interactive EY activities and competitions designed to spark ideas you can bring back into your practice. 

 

Who should attend? 

This national CPD event is designed for everyone working in the early years, including: 

  • Nursery, PVI and pre-school teachers
  • Early years leaders and managers
  • Teaching assistants and practitioners in EYFS settings
  • Childminders
  • Local authority advisors and consultants
  • Researchers and policymakers with an interest in early childhood education 

Further information

Please contact the HFL Events team at events@hfleduaction.org or call 01438 544477