What's on the agenda at our annual early years conference?
At Science to story: How research transforms early words into lifelong reading, we’ll celebrate the benefits of shared reading and storytelling on the developing brain – and the opportunities for families, professionals and partnership working.
Taking place 27 March 2026 at KPMG, London, we’ll discover the latest evidence-base to support boosting language and reading outcomes at scale.
Through keynotes, workshops and panel discussions, you’ll leave with practical takeaways to ensure each child’s story gets the best start – from policy to practice.
Here's a full outline of the insightful keynotes and workshops offered by our lineup of early literacy thought leaders.
Full outline of talks and workshops
- Frank Cottrell-Boyce Children’s Laureate and reading for pleasure campaigner
The heart‑to‑science moment: reconnecting research with practice
In my closing keynote, I’ll explore the vital bridge between the science of literacy and the valuable work of early years practitioners.
- Professor Sam Wass Director, Institute for the Science of Early Years
The importance of rhythms of language in early development
I’ll explore how shared attention and rhythms between adult and child build strong foundations for learning and language growth. Centring the value of shared reading and the critical role of practitioners, I’ll illuminate how books offer a unique processing experience for young learners – highlighting the contrasts with screen-based experiences.
New narrative arcs in stories and why they matter for children’s understanding
Join me for an additional workshop on the role of oral storytelling in children’s development. We’ll unpick how children’s play is shaped by storytelling – from exposure to stories to spontaneous storytelling – and explore the opportunities this presents for early years practitioners in supporting learning and development.
- Liz Pemberton Early years anti-racist trainer & consultant - Director of The Black Nursery Manager, Training & Consultancy
An anti-racist lens to reimagining reading in the early years
Anti-racist pedagogy sits within, not outside of, early reading practice. Weaving personal narrative and evidence-informed practice, I’ll challenge common stereotypes about who reads with children, and how - with practical guidance on supporting inclusion for young learners and parents.
- Camilla Reid Early years author
The power of one-on-one reading for 0-3
I’ll explore how one-to-one shared reading strengthens early literacy. I’ll demonstrate how specific design features in early years books can support exchanges that build vocabulary narrative skills and vocal confidence. This session also addresses a critical but often overlooked factor in sustained shared reading: adult engagement. You’ll leave with parental engagement strategies to support early language outcomes at scale.
- Louise Bazalgette & Lauren Liotti, A Fairer Start, Nesta
Working with parents to support children's early language and literacy: designing a support offer that maximises parents' engagement
In this talk we will share findings from Nesta's research about how to offer parenting support that aligns with parents' preferences.