The programme · 26 & 27 April 2027

Two days built
for every leader

Keynotes, workshops, panels and networking for leaders across every part of the education sector.

How the days work

Inspiration in the morning. Ideas you can use by lunch.

Each morning opens with a headline keynote from one of the most compelling voices in leadership. Throughout the day, choose the workshops that fit your role and your setting, then carry the conversation on over lunch, in the exhibition and at the networking reception.

Keynote

Main stage

Renowned keynote speakers and expert practitioners from education, sport, business and beyond. Expect inspiring stories, practical tips and advice to take back to your school or organisation.

Workshop

Workshops

Four rounds of sessions across the two days (45 minutes on day one, 60 minutes on day two), led by practitioners from across the UK. Small groups, honest conversations and practical tools you can use straight away.

Networking

Networking and exhibition

Generous breaks, lunch on both days and an evening reception on day one, with the exhibition open throughout. Time to meet colleagues facing the same challenges in different settings.

Programme

The two days hour by hour

10:00
Networking

Registration and exhibition

Arrive, collect your badge and explore the exhibition.

11:00
Keynote

Opening keynotes

Two inspiring speakers open ILEC 2027 on the main stage.

12:30

Lunch

Lunch, plus time to meet exhibitors and fellow delegates.

13:45
Workshop

Workshops: round one

Choose the session that best meets your needs and ambitions.

14:45
Workshop

Workshops: round two

Choose the session that best meets your needs and ambitions.

15:30

Refreshment break

16:00
Keynote

Afternoon keynote

Psychologist and bestselling author Dr Katriona O’Sullivan closes day one with a powerful talk on resilience, inequality and opportunity.

17:00
Networking

Networking reception

Close the day with drinks and conversation.

Timings may change. Session titles and speakers will be added as they are confirmed.

The workshop programme

Practical sessions. Real-world leadership.

Designed to equip leaders with actionable strategies and fresh perspectives, the workshops are a chance to learn from experienced practitioners, collaborate with peers and take ideas back to your setting. The full programme will be announced by the end of January 2027.

Theme one

Leadership professional development

Strategies and tools you can put into practice straight away to strengthen senior leadership: the latest in leadership best practice, different leadership styles and the development of core skills.

Theme two

Education and school development

An in-depth look at the challenges shaping education right now, from AI in education and children in care to workload and wellbeing.

Matters of the moment AI in education Ofsted and accountability School finances Workload and wellbeing SEND and inclusion

Workshop FAQs

Good to know

Who are the workshops for?

CEOs, headteachers, principals, heads of school or department and senior leaders, plus sessions for aspiring leaders and the “unexpected” leaders who found themselves in the role. They suit staff from early years, primary, secondary, further education and other settings who want to develop their leadership.

What topics will be covered?

A broad range of leadership topics: developing your leadership style, building practical skills and raising the standard of leadership in your setting. We’ll also cover matters of the moment, including AI, Ofsted and school finances.

What will I gain from attending?

A deeper understanding of the issues that matter in your leadership journey, plus practical skills and strategies you can take back to make a difference in your school, college or trust.

Do I need to register for workshops in advance?

Yes. Places are limited, so sessions need to be booked in advance. We’ll email details of how to choose your workshops one month before the conference.

Are workshops included in my ticket?

Yes. Every workshop is included in your conference ticket.

Could you run a workshop?

We’re looking for practitioners with ideas, insight and innovation to share. Applications close on 31 December 2026.

Apply to speak

Secure your place at ILEC 2027

Early bird rates until 1 January 2027. Group and NAHT member discounts available.

Book now

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