Shaping the Future of
Independent Education

18 - 19th November 2026 | NEC, Birmingham
The UK's leading event for independent school leaders, delivering expert guidance, strategic insights and practical solutions to help your school thrive.
500+ Attendees
30+ Expert Speakers
10+ Hours of CPD Content
50+ Strategic Suppliers

Practical Solutions for Digital Leaders

Whether you're modernising your IT infrastructure, shaping your digital strategy, strengthening cyber security or exploring AI, the EdTech Summit provides practical guidance, expert insights and innovative solutions to help you deliver meaningful digital transformation across your school or trust.

Modernise Your IT Infrastructure

Discover scalable technologies and cost-effective solutions that strengthen your school's digital infrastructure.

Accelerate Digital Transformation

Explore proven strategies and innovative technologies that help create inclusive learning environments.

Strengthen Cyber Security

Protect your school with practical advice and trusted solutions to improve cyber resilience and reduce risk.

Integrate EdTech with Confidence

Learn how to embed technology effectively to enhance teaching and increase engagement.

Harness AI for Education

Explore the latest AI innovations to reduce workload and improve efficiency across your school.

Connect with Leading Suppliers

Meet trusted technology providers, compare solutions and find the right partners for your priorities.

Delegates interacting at the EdTech Summit live floor

Trusted By Independent School Leaders

Hear directly from education professionals who have experienced the conference and discovered practical ideas, trusted suppliers and valuable connections.

Education leaders collaborating

A conference where, as a school leader, you find the concerns and thoughts you have been mulling over in isolation are being discussed by peers and solutions are being articulated.

Director of Safeguarding and Compliance

Really good show, lots of inspirational ideas, will look forward to networking again.

Deputy Head

Such a positive atmosphere and so many new ideas to take back to my school! The day was packed with informative talks from expert speakers and the buzz of innovative exhibitors who took a real interest in my school's needs. I'll be back next year!

Teacher of Learning Support and English

I look forward to this conference every year. It’s a great place for school leaders and senior managers to come together to share their thoughts on current trends in education. There are ample networking opportunities and the plenary talks and sessions are thoughtfully crafted to make the most of our time away from school.

Director of Marketing and Community Engagement

See the Conference in Action

Take a look at the highlights from the recent SAASHOW and see why education professionals choose the Independent Schools Conference every year.

EdTech Summit Exhibition Floor at NEC
Register Today
Event Information

Visitor FAQs

Is the event free to attend?

Yes. The Independent Schools Conference is free to attend for eligible professionals working in independent and private schools, subject to our registration criteria.

Who should register?

The conference is designed for senior leaders and decision-makers working across the independent education sector, including headteachers, principals, bursars, governors, trustees, deputy heads, business managers and other school leaders looking to stay informed, share best practice and discover innovative solutions.

What will I get from attending?

Gain expert insights from leading voices in independent education, explore practical strategies to tackle today's key challenges, connect with peers from across the sector and discover innovative products and services from trusted education suppliers.

Can I attend the Schools & Academies Show with my ticket?

Yes. Your ticket gives you access to the Independent Schools Conference, the Schools & Academies Show and other co-located events, helping you maximise your time at the NEC while discovering even more solutions for your school.

Can I bring colleagues?

Yes. We encourage teams to attend together. Each attendee should complete their own registration using a unique email address so they receive their event pass and important event updates.

Where is the event taking place?

The Independent Schools Conference takes place on 18–19 November 2026 at Hall 1, NEC Birmingham.

Located at the SAASHOW

Your free ticket to the Independent Schools Conference also gives you access to the Schools & Academies Show and its co-located events, allowing you to maximise your time away from school while discovering even more solutions to support your setting.

The Schools & Academies Show brings together thousands of school leaders, policy-makers and leading education suppliers to share practical insights, sector updates and innovative solutions that help schools thrive.

Shape the Future of Independent Education

Join thousands of independent school leaders to gain strategic leadership advice, expert insights and practical solutions.

Register Today