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Education Estates® Leaders Network Programme 2026

We’re delighted to launch the Education Estates® Leaders Network Programme 2026. 

This programme brings together a community of sector leaders and specialist contacts with a shared passion for shaping effective and inspiring learning environments. 

Through the programme you will: 

  • Connect with likeminded professionals from across the education estate community 

  • Share best practice and practical insights that support strategic leadership and delivery 

  • Stay up to date with the latest trends, innovations and policy developments in education infrastructure 

Designed for existing and new members alike, the Education Estates® Leaders Network Programme supports collaboration, knowledge exchange and meaningful professional relationships that help shape the future of education estates. 

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05 Feb 2026
  1. ExCeL London

    We’re pleased to invite you to attend the upcoming Education Estates® Sustainability Conference and Education Estates® SEND Conference, both taking place on 5 February at ExCeL London. 

    Free for Public Sector Attendees 

    Both conferences are free to attend for those working in the public sector. 


    Please select the conference you’re principally attending when prompted. 

    Discount for Private Sector Network Members 

    For private sector professionals, attendance is paid, however as a valued Education Estates® Leaders Network member, you’re entitled to a 10% discount. 


    When prompted, enter the discount code: NETWORK10 

    We look forward to welcoming you for a day of engaging discussion, collaboration, and insight into the future of sustainable and inclusive educational environments. 

01 Jun 2026
  1. This June (date TBC), the Education Estates® Leaders Network is hosting a series of complimentary networking events across the UK, bringing together professionals who are passionate about shaping the future of educational environments.

    Upcoming Locations

    • Birmingham – Venue, date and time to be confirmed
    • Bristol – Venue, date and time to be confirmed
    • Cardiff – Education Buildings Wales, 30 June 2026, Cardiff University
    • Edinburgh – Venue, date and time to be confirmed
    • London – Venue, date and time to be confirmed
    • Manchester – Venue, date and time to be confirmed


    These events offer a fantastic opportunity to connect, share insights, and collaborate on creating inspiring and inclusive learning spaces. Each gathering will include refreshments and a short content session, such as a panel discussion or fireside chat.

    We’ll be inviting:

    • Members of the Education Estates® Leaders Network
    • Their professional contacts
    • Architects, contractors, consultants, and clients working across the education sector


    More details will be shared soon – we look forward to seeing you there!

    Interested in hosting a Networking Event? Please get in touch with:

    Jake Stickels
    Event Management Lead
    jakestickels@stepconnect2.com

    Let’s shape something inspiring together.

11 Jun 2026
  1. ExCeL London

    The Public Sector Estates Congress 2026 will take place on 11 June in London, bringing together public sector property and estates professionals to explore strategy, sustainability, and innovation across the built environment.

    Members of the Education Estates® Leaders Network are very welcome to attend, particularly those with estates or strategic asset responsibilities.

    Registration

    • Public sector attendees can attend free of charge

    • Private sector delegate rates apply, but Education Estates® Leaders Network members will receive the same 10% discount as other events this year.

    • Use code: NETWORK10


    Find out more here

19 Oct 2026
  1. The Junction, Manchester Central

    Free to attend and open to all, the People Awards honour individuals and teams making a real impact. Held alongside the Opening Party, it’s the perfect setting to network with peers, partners, and sector influencers.

    Find out more here

20 Oct 2026
  1. Manchester Central

    20-21 October 2026

    As the highlight of the year for those involved in the design, build, maintenance, and management of education infrastructure, Education Estates® 2026 is a must-attend event for Leaders shaping the future of our learning environments.

    This two-day event features a multi-stream conference, an innovative exhibition, and the prestigious Education Estates® Awards, offering a unique platform for sharing best practice and driving improvement across the sector.

    Why Leaders Should Attend

    For members of the Education Estates® Leaders Network, this is the flagship moment of the year to:

    • Connect and collaborate with fellow Leaders across the UK and Ireland
    • Gain insight from sessions tailored to current challenges and priorities
    • Explore the latest thinking, strategies, and solutions
    • Celebrate sector progress and recognise outstanding contributions


    Throughout the event, there will be multiple chances for Education Estates® Leaders Network members to connect through informal meet-ups, breakout sessions, and on-stand conversations. It’s an ideal space to share experiences and strengthen relationships.

    We encourage all Education Estates® Leaders Network members to be part of this annual gathering. It’s your space to engage, be inspired, and shape what’s next.

    Find out more here

  2. Manchester Central

    A relaxed and energising session to round off Day 1, EduFest is always a highlight, bringing together Education Estates® Leaders Network members, exhibitors, speakers, sponsors and attendees for informal conversation, reflection, and connection before the evening celebrations begin.

03 Nov 2026
  1. SEC, Glasgow

    This November, Education Estates® Leaders Network members are invited to join us in Glasgow for a focused opportunity to connect, collaborate and help shape the future of learning environments across Scotland. Held as part of Learning Places Scotland, this event provides a vital platform to share best practice, engage with sector leaders and strengthen professional networks within the Scottish education community. We look forward to welcoming you in Glasgow.

    Learning Places Scotland returns this November for the annual gathering of Scotland’s Learning Estate professionals, bringing the education community together to share ideas, best practice, and innovation.

    Members of the Education Estates® Leaders Network are very welcome to attend and join the conversation.

    Registration:

    • Public sector attendees can attend free of charge
    • Private sector delegate rates apply, but Education Estates® Leaders Network members will receive the same 10% discount as other events this year
    • Use code: NETWORK10


    Please note that registration opens in Spring 2026

    Find out more here

11 Nov 2026
  1. RDS Dublin (Hall 2)

    11-12 November 2026

    This November, Education Estates® Leaders Network members are invited to join us in Dublin for a dedicated opportunity to connect, collaborate and influence the future of Ireland’s education environments. Taking place as part of Education Buildings Ireland, this event offers a valuable platform to share best practice, gain insight from sector leaders and build meaningful relationships within the Irish education community. We look forward to welcoming you in Dublin.

    Education Buildings Ireland returns this November in Dublin, bringing together professionals shaping the future of education environments across Ireland.

    Members of the Education Estates® Leaders Network are very welcome to attend.

    Registration:

    • Public sector attendees can attend free of charge
    • Private sector delegate rates apply, however Education Estates® Leaders Network members will receive the same 10% discount as other events this year
    • Use code: NETWORK10


    Please note that registration opens in Spring 2026

    Find out more here

26 Nov 2026
  1. We’re delighted to announce the return of our complimentary end-of-year networking lunch for the Education Estates® Leaders Network, taking place at The Cinnamon Club.

    Further details and joining instructions will be shared later in the year.

    Please note:

    • This event is exclusively for members of the Education Estates® Leaders Network
    • Spaces are strictly limited to 50 attendees
    • Priority will be given to Education Estates® Leaders Network members who have actively participated in and supported this year’s programme


    We look forward to celebrating with those who have contributed to another successful year.

Interested in joining the Education Estates® Leaders Network?

Register your interest to become part of a community of experts shaping the future of the education estate.

Members of the Education Estates® Leaders Network connect with like-minded professionals, share best practice and stay informed on the latest trends in learning environments.

Request to join