Prep Teaching and Learning Festival

2 May 2026 9am – 5pm Conference Dragon School, Oxford, OX2 6SS

Prep Teaching and Learning Festival 2026

Building on the success of the inaugural Festival in May, the 2026 event promises a vibrant celebration of collaboration, innovation, and inspiration for educators passionate about Prep School education.

Following the release of Curriculum 25, this year’s theme focuses on future-proofing learners with transferable skills. 

Designed for enthusiastic teaching staff at all levels, the Festival brings together educators and experts to explore best practice, share ideas, and embrace the latest teaching methodologies. Expect dynamic workshops, thought-provoking keynote speakers, and engaging discussions focused on enhancing learning experiences, fostering creativity, and supporting student engagement.

Whether you are looking to develop your skills, connect with like-minded peers, or discover new strategies, this is an unmissable opportunity to celebrate excellence in Prep School education with us. 

Programme 

Our Festival 2026 Headliners are: 

Dr Hilary Cremin, Head of the Faculty of Education at Cambridge University and Mini Grey, award-winning author and illustrator. 

Our Seminar Speakers are: 

  • Dee Alder, Deputy Head at Warwick Preparatory School 
  • Naomi Ashman, Director of Learning Success at The Blue Coat School 
  • Victoria Bagnall, Founder and Director of Connections in Minds
  • Jason Buckley, Founder and Director of The Philosophy Man and Oracy for Schools 
  • Andy Carley, SOuL
  • Elizabeth Cordle, Founder/ Director and Chartered Physiotherapist, Corefulness
  • Philip Davis, Founder of Write Inspired
  • Layla Hewitt, Class Teacher, STEM/Science Lead and EVC at Abbot's Hill School 
  • Nisha Kaura, Founder and Director of F&T Advisors Ltd
  • Rob Lightfoot, CEO of NACE 
  • Colin MacIntosh, Headmaster at Cargilfield School 
  • Jenny Wannberg-James, Year 4 Teacher at Hampton Pre-Prep and Prep 
  • Connie Watts, Deputy Headteacher (Teaching and Learning) at Prestfelde

 

Exhibition and Sponsorship Opportunities 

Full details coming soon. 

A new opportunity from IAPS to interact with a much broader audience in a less formal setting from both the independent and state sector.  We will be offering a variety of ways to engage with attendees. Register your interest today. 

If you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please get in touch at [email protected]