The Early Years Leadership Conference, Manchester 2026

Come join us at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Manchester, for a day filled with insightful discussions and networking opportunities. This conference is designed for those in leadership roles within the early years sector. Learn from industry experts, share best practices, and connect with like-minded professionals. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your leadership skills and make valuable connections. Buy your ticket now to secure your spot!

Key highlights:

• Connect with fellow leaders and industry experts, expanding your professional network and forging valuable relationships.
• Gain insights from renowned early years experts on a variety of current topics.
• Elevate your skills and knowledge through reflective discussions and seminars, specifically designed to enhance your leadership capabilities.
• Access leading suppliers from the Early Years Sector who understand your unique needs and have tailored solutions for you.
• CPD Accredited: Be awarded a CPD Certificate for every seminar you attend.
• Enjoy a delicious Continental Breakfast, Sandwich Lunch, and unlimited tea & coffee!
• Take home a loaded goody bag.
• Free entry into our fabulous raffle at the end of the day.
• And so much more!

With outstanding testimonials, this event is a must-do for early years leaders:

"Wonderful inspirational first conference. Well done to the team. Looking forward to next years!" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"It has been an amazing, inspiring and insightful experience. I have met a lot of knowledgeable professionals delivering outstanding training. Will definitely attend again."⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Really enjoyed the day and received a lot of good information."⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Amazing event really inspiring."⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Amazing! Looking forward to the next one!" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Great to hear everyone’s views, experiences and knowledge and also gaining knowledge and new programmes and support which can be very beneficial to my nursery Thankyou! Dinner was lovely! Loved the endless coffee Thank you!" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Really great day, lots of new faces and companies!" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"An amazing day filled with a lot of information and great networking experience."⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Fantastic - would come back!" ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Info: Introduction to Swift, The Early Years Company, and The Early Years Leadership Conference. Explanation of the purpose, themes, and raffle prizes. Brought to you by Kelly Hill from The Early Years Company & Jack Edwards from Swift.

Info: In this live episode of The Voice of Early Childhood Podcast and BookedIn Voices, Angelica and Adam explore a question that continues to shape conversations across the early childhood community: are our expectations of children truly evidence informed? Drawing on current research and professional reflection, this episode considers how developmental expectations are formed, whether they align with evidence about child development and learning. Together, Angelica and Adam reflect on how educators can balance policy pressures with developmentally appropriate practice, while remaining responsive to the diverse needs, strengths, and lived experiences of children. The conversation invites listeners to critically consider what it means to support children in ways that are both ambitious and realistic, and how evidence-informed practice can help shape more thoughtful expectations across the profession.

Info: This session explores the powerful role of storytelling and characters in supporting young children’s learning, thinking, and emotional development. Drawing on research from learning sciences and classroom practice, it highlights how puppets and other “others” can help children engage with ideas, build empathy, and approach challenges such as early maths with greater confidence. Through practical demonstrations and real classroom examples, the session offers playful, research-informed strategies that practitioners can apply immediately in early years settings.

Info: This session explores how early years settings can embed a truly family-centred approach to SEND and inclusion. It focuses on building genuine partnerships with parents, prioritising the child’s voice, and developing a culture where inclusion is a shared responsibility. Drawing on practical leadership experience, it highlights early identification, effective support, and clear communication with families. Delegates will gain strategies to build confident teams while ensuring every child and family feels seen, heard, and valued.

Info: A strong workforce is the foundation of high-quality early learning. This panel explores how intentional training and professional development can elevate practice, strengthen teams, and drive continuous improvement across our settings and the broader industry. Panellist's will share strategies for building capability, supporting career progression, and building a culture of learning that empowers educators and leaders alike. Chaired by Jack Edwards; Sandy Silvester, Kelly Hill, Ryan Bradshaw, Ashley Wilson.

Info: As early years provision in primary schools continues to grow, strong leadership is essential to ensure high-quality, child-centred environments while meeting accountability demands. This session explores practical strategies for Early Years leaders and PIV managers, including curriculum planning, staff development, formative assessment, and reflective practice. Through real-world examples, attendees will learn how effective leadership can strengthen teams, support children’s development, and create nurturing environments where young learners can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

Info: Raffle draw and claim your CPD certificates

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester - Piccadilly, 1 Auburn Street, Manchester, United Kingdom

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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