Dr Alistair Bryce-Clegg
One of Britain’s most respected voices in early years education is joining us at Childcare & Education Expo National 2026!
Join Alistair Bryce-Clegg, the award-winning early years expert, author, former headteacher and fouder of the early years consultancy ABC Does at the CBS Arena, Coventry. With a career dedicated to transforming early childhood education, Alistair has inspired thousands of educators and practitioners with his practical, engaging and play-based approach to learning.
As a passionate advocate for creativity, curiosity and high-quality early years practice, Alistair has written extensively on how young children learn best through exploration and meaningful experiences. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear from one of the UK’s leading voices in early years education as he shares insights, ideas and inspiration for shaping outstanding practice.
What is Alistair doing at the event?Alistair will be leading not one, but two CPD seminars, exploring high-quality continuous provision and its impact on learning and the importance of emotional safety, wellbeing and secure relationships in helping children feel confident, engaged and ready to thrive.
- Continuous Provision - Where the Real Learning Happens
- Belonging Before Learning: Emotional Safety in Learning Spaces
Sam Wass
Sam Wass, one of the most insightful voices in child development and early years psychology is joining us at Childcare & Education Expo National 2026!
As an internationally recognised psychologist, researcher and broadcaster, Sam is known for bringing the science behind childrens behaviour and development to life in a way that is engaging and highly practical for early years professionals.
Best known for his work exploring attention, stress and emotional regulation in early childhood, as well as his appearances on Channel 4’s The Secret Life of 4, 5 and 6 Year Olds, Sam has spent his career uncovering what really shapes children’s behaviour and development in the early years.
With a passion for bridging the gap between neuroscience and everyday practice, Sam shares powerful insights into how environments, relationships and experiences shape young minds. This is an unmissable opportunity to hear fresh thinking, evidence-based ideas and practical takeaways from one of the UK’s leading experts in early years psychology and child development.
What is Sam doing at the event?
Sam will present his seminar, Growing Slow: Repetition, Rhythm, Brain Development & Attention in Under-2s, exploring how baby room environments influence brain development, attention and wellbeing. Drawing on current research, the session will examine overstimulation, stress and practical ways to create calmer, more responsive spaces that support healthy early development.
Hoop Guy
We're delighted to welcome John Parnell - The Hoop Guy back to Childcare & Education Expo National 2026.
A Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist and award-winning educational entertainer, John is renowned for inspiring children, educators and families with his high-energy performances, interactive hoop workshops and engaging approach to physical activity.
What is Hoop Guy doing at the event?
John will be onsite across both days of the expo, bringing plenty of energy and excitement to the start of each morning.
From 9:30am to 10:30am, he'll be providing entertainment during registration, welcoming visitors as they arrive and officially opening the show as part of the morning opening ceremony. It's the perfect way to kick off your day before heading into the expo to explore the latest products, services and CPD opportunities.
Be sure to arrive early to join the opening celebrations and experience The Hoop Guy in action!
