Schools and Academies Show – What to expect in 2026
If you’re a school or trust leader looking for practical insights and a chance to connect with peers, here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 Schools & Academies Show…
- by Teachwire
The Schools & Academies Show is one of the UK’s key events for education leaders, bringing together senior staff from schools, academies and MATs, alongside policymakers and sector experts.
It’s the place to explore practical solutions, discover new strategies and stay ahead of the challenges shaping the education landscape.
The show is designed to support senior decision‑makers in schools and trusts. There’s free, CPD‑certified content, an exhibition floor packed with products and services and opportunities to connect with peers tackling similar challenges.
This year’s agenda focuses on key priorities for school leaders, including managing budgets in a volatile landscape, building high-performing teams, rethinking SEND support and delivering smooth, effective digital transformation.
New for 2026, the Inclusive Classroom area brings SEND provision to life with real-world examples and inspiration. Meanwhile, the Operational Excellence Hub offers expert guidance and practical tools to help schools and trusts run more effectively.
When and where does it take place?
The Schools & Academies Show runs twice a year:
- A one‑day event at ExCeL London on 7th May 2026
- A two‑day event at the NEC, Birmingham on 18th-19th November 2026
Is the Schools and Academies Show free to attend?
Yes. Registration for attendees from schools, academies, MATs and related education organisations is free.
What happens at the show?
Strategic content and professional development
The agenda features CPD‑certified sessions and expert‑led talks on topics that matter to senior leaders – from policy and governance to digital transformation and SEND provision. These give you actionable insights that you can take back to your school or trust.
Exhibitor floor
Hundreds of market‑leading exhibitors share solutions and resources across a wide range of school needs, from estates and finance to technology, wellbeing and instructional support.
Networking and collaboration
The event brings together thousands of school leaders each year, providing a platform to connect with peers, share challenges and build professional networks with others facing similar issues in the education sector.
Dedicated zones
SAAShow includes specialised areas like the Ofsted Hub (where attendees can engage in discussions around inspection), Government Education Village and networking platforms such as ConnectEd to plan meetings and explore partnerships.
Alongside the main show, events like the SEND Conference and School Estates Summit give you even more focused content to explore.
Why go to the Schools & Academies Show?
Attending gives senior education leaders a chance to:
- Discover practical strategies and innovative solutions for pressing school and MAT challenges
- Gain professional development through free, high‑value CPD‑certified sessions
- Connect with fellow leaders, policy experts and solution providers
- Stay up to date with emerging trends and policy developments affecting education leadership and strategy
Find out more at schoolsandacademiesshow.co.uk
