Support and inspiration for childcare practitioners at Childcare & Education Expo

As childcare settings across the UK return, the need for face-to-face networking, advice and inspiration has never been more crucial. Education professionals are looking for new ways to support the development of the children within their setting while adapting to a new world.

On the 24-25 September, Childcare & Education Expo returns to the Ricoh Arena in Coventry for its 11th year.

Since the launch of the renowned event in 2010, the show has welcomed over 34,000 early years and primary workers, leaders and managers.

Throughout the years, visitors have attended with a shared ambition – to improve their childcare practice and the lives of children across the UK.

The show presents the exciting opportunity for the sector to finally reconnect. The free event will be the first occasion for the professionals in the industry to meet in around two years and will be the only opportunity in the next five months to prepare for the future ahead.

With an extensive list of exhibitors, there’s no time like the present to discover the exceptional new suppliers and products that are helping settings transition back with ease. Test the latest innovations and get access to their exclusive show offers and competitions.

The biggest speaker lineup in history – have your questions answered

Across the two days the event will see the biggest speaker line-up in the Expo’s history.

Key speakers will include June O’Sullivan MBE, Chief Executive of London Early Years Foundation; Purnima Tanuku OBE, Chief Executive of NDNA; Professor Christine Pascal OBE, Director for The Centre of Research in Early Childhood and Sarah Mackenzie, Chief Education & People Officer at N Famly Club.

Phil Minns, the Specialist Adviser for Early Years and Primary Education at Ofsted, will be providing updates on how inspections will consider the key aspects of the EYFS reforms.

The CPD seminar programme will also feature a number of practitioners who have first-hand experience of working on the front-line of childcare. Topics touched upon include play, SEND, Birth to 5 Matters, safeguarding, inclusive practice and self-regulation.

In free interactive workshops, the show will explore well-being through music, Reggio Emilia, language learning, stories & rhymes and even yoga for little ones!

New for 2021 – Panel debates with sector leaders

New for 2021, three panel debates will take place focusing on providing visitors with support in a number of vital areas. Have your voice heard on the future of early years following the pandemic and discuss how settings might use the Birth to 5 Matters guidance to ensure the best delivery of the EYFS.

After the recent rise in awareness for sustainable living, another panel will give invaluable direction on how early education practitioners can embed sustainable practice into their settings.

Attendees will learn the lasting effects that can be made on future generations while looking at the environmental, financial and social impacts this can have on a setting.

Discover the world of Forest Schools and mindfulness activities

Another exciting new feature for 2021 is the introduction of the Interactive Forest School Zone with Cambium Sustainable, promoting the benefits of outdoor play and development.

With over 20 years of experience, Cambium was one of the first Forest School training organisations established in the UK!

In this new feature area, see the value of learner-led play through their range of natural materials and resources and find out how the 6 Forest School principals can transform outdoor provision.

Visitors will also see the ways in which Forest Schools can open up many holistic benefits for learners, allowing children to develop physical, emotional and psychological well-being and confidence.

Across the show floor, visitors can visit the Mindfulness Zones to immerse themselves in creativity and take a moment to relax.

Here you can find the event’s popular mindfulness wall feature, promoting the benefits of wellness colouring – a relaxing and calming activity great for adults and children alike.

Visitors can also enter the rock zone for some exciting crafts and take part in the #childedexporocks game!

Secure your place and click here to register for your free ticket today!

Safe and Secure

At the AIM Secure Accredited venue, they’re widening the aisles, supplying PPE, lateral flow tests, sanitiser stations and thermal cameras – you can be safe knowing all legal compliance, health and hygiene protocols are upheld.