Childcare & Education Expo London 2026 was our biggest show yet welcoming over 4000 early years professionals and 130+ exhibitors at Olympia London on March 20th- 21st .
As the UK’s leading early years show, we brought together nursery owners, directors, CEO’s, senior leaders, managers and educators under one roof for two full days of discovering new ideas and resources, connecting with fellow professionals and learning about innovate solutions.
Whether you attended the event and want to experience the highlights once more, or you missed the show and want to discover what the hype was about, we have put together the top five highlights from the event that made London 2026 our biggest and best show to date!
1. Michael Rosen Book Show Opening and Book Signing
On Friday 20th March the beloved children’s author of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, Michael Rosen, kickstarted the show, opening alongside our Headline Sponsors Morton Michel. His presence brought an immediate sense of excitement to the event, drawing in attendees from across the sector eager to hear from one of the most recognisable voices in children’s literature.
All attendees were welcomed with a complimentary lanyard and visitor bag kindly provided by our sponsors Tineyand Funding Loop, helping to ensure that everyone was equipped and ready to make the most of their day.
Later in the day Michael Rosen hosted his book signing which proved to be hugely popular. Visitors queued throughout the afternoon (right up until 4pm!) for the opportunity to meet the author in person. The atmosphere was lively with many attendees sharing how meaningful it was to connect with someone whose work has had a lasting impact on children’s literature.
2. VIP Lounge Launch: A New Hub for Networking
The London 2026 show successfully saw the launch of our new VIP Lounge feature, kindly sponsored by YPO. The VIP Lounge provided a welcoming space to step away from the bustling exhibition floor and enjoy a complimentary tea and coffee.
Connecting exhibitors, speakers and attendees alike, the lounge was buzzing with conversation as professionals working in the early years sector came together to share ideas, build relationships and form new partnerships.
One VIP attendee noted how Childcare & Education Expo was an “excellent day out. It was very well organised and very informative. The VIP area was amazing for me to sit and take the day in with a coffee. The staff were very friendly from both Olympia and the event team”
3. Standout Seminars: Insights Shaping Early Years Education
Michael Rosen also took to the stage on Friday to deliver his seminar The Wonder of Words: Lighting the Spark of Language and Literacy, inspiring attendees with his passion for storytelling and communication.
Another special guest was Andy Cope who delivered his seminar The Art of Being Brilliant: Your Wellbeing Launchpad, helping his audience discover how to be their best selves and live life to the fullest through humor and positive psychology.
We would also like to thank Tapestry, who sponsored the session The Digital Playground: Integrating Technology & Play for Enhanced Learning. Ben Case led the panel, discussing how digital play can enhance learning in early years education.
Our session sponsors Childcare Marketing also took to the stage to discuss AI in Action: How can Leaders use AI Today? Panel chair Ben Rolfe led an insightful discussion on the Business Stage, leaving attendees inspired to explore how artificial intelligence can enhance management and leadership in early years settings.
4. Exhibitor Highlights
Our London 2026 show welcomed over 130 exhibitors, each showcasing the latest services, products and resources tailored to the early years sector. The exhibition floor was full of energy throughout both days, with attendees exploring stands and engaging directly with suppliers.
And of course, it wouldn’t be Childcare & Education Expo without the return of the infamous Morton Bear from Morton Michel. Morton was joined along aside Pippa the Panda, the mascot from our sponsors College But Different and the pair was not to be missed as they interacted with attendees and posed for photos.
Our sponsor, Hope Education, also had a hugely successful stand, drawing in many visitors with their prize wheel. Attendees enjoyed getting involved, with many prizes won across the event.
5. Interactive Workshops: Inspiration on Display
The interactive workshop feature was hugely popular this year, offering attendees the chance to take part in hands on, practical learning experiences. From sensory play with mud to singing songs and rhymes, the workshops encouraged active participation and sparked ideas that could easily be implemented in early years settings.
What's Next?
Although London 2026 was our biggest event yet, we are continuing to grow. For Childcare & Education Expo London 2027, we are excited to announce we are moving to Excel London! The Excel venue provides the space and flexibility to expand the exhibition, along with increased networking and educational opportunities. Keep an eye out for more information and exciting features that will be announced soon.
If you can’t wait until 2027 then good news - you can look forward to our upcoming event, Childcare & Education Expo National 2026, held at the CBS Arena in Coventry on October 2nd-3rd. You can look forward to even more exhibitors, CPD accredited seminars special guests and much more.
Register your interest here: https://www.childcareeducationexpo.co.uk/national-register-interest?utm_source=blog&utm_campaign=cee-midlands-2026&utm_medium=website
