Early Years Summit 2026: Building strong foundations

Themed on Building strong foundations, the summit explored how early years education can support every child’s future, bringing together research, policy insight and practical approaches to strengthen early learning, inclusion, attendance and place-based partnership.

129

delegates

17

speakers

8

sessions

I look forward to the early years summit, CST brings together early years specialists to discuss the latest policy and best practice. I enjoy the networking opportunities at the summit and meeting with like minded professionals.

I had a fantastic experience at the Early Years Summit. It was so valuable to connect with others in the same role and share ideas and experiences. The speakers were excellent, especially the sessions focused on young children’s brain development, which provided really insightful and practical learning. It was also refreshing to attend an event fully dedicated to EYFS—something that often feels like an add-on in broader training alongside KS1 and KS2. The passion in the room for giving young children the very best start was clear throughout, and I came away with plenty of useful tips to take back into practice. A truly worthwhile and inspiring event.

This Summit was very well planned. The keynote speakers were excellent, it is rare to find a conference where you can take something away to use in practice from every speaker.

The summit was informative, well planned and insightful. It provided a good opportunity to network and gave people time to reflect on what had been delivered. Prof Sam Wass was truly inspirational and really made me think outside of the box.

Inspiring sessions

Throughout the day, delegates explored:

Reclaiming the joy of reading in the early years
The science of early brain development and its role in building strong foundations for learning
How early years education can support lifelong flourishing through inclusive, child-centred practice
The role of schools, trusts and communities in giving every child the best start in life

Focused insights

Discussions covered:

Neurodevelopment, school readiness and the foundations children need for learning
Practical approaches to handwriting, literacy and confident early writing
Building positive attendance habits from the earliest stages of education
Strengthening place-based partnerships to improve outcomes for children and families

Making connections

Attendees had the opportunity to:

Hear from early years leaders, policymakers, practitioners and child development experts
Share reflections and practical learning through table discussions and panel sessions
Explore real examples of what is working across schools, trusts and communities
Network with colleagues and leading suppliers to the sector

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Join us for 2027

We would love to see you at our next Early Years Summit, taking place on Thursday 6 May 2027 at the Birmingham Conference and Events Centre.