Local authority education and school improvement colleagues are invited to join AoEA for a face-to-face network meeting at the Schools & Academies Show this November.
The meeting will bring colleagues together to share practice, discuss common challenges and explore where collaboration and further support could make a difference.
Date: Wednesday 18 November 2026, Day 1
Time: 3.00pm to 4.30pm
Venue: Piazza Suite 3, NEC Birmingham
Local authority voices, shared challenges and practical ideas
Chaired by Eric Halton, the session will provide an opportunity to exchange perspectives with colleagues from other local authorities and reflect on learning from the day’s conference sessions.
We will explore three themes:
- Collaboration and localism: What opportunities and challenges do these present for local authorities?
- Inclusion and inspection: How well does the new Ofsted framework recognise inclusion across different communities, including liaison with local authorities?
- Teaching and learning: How can local authorities promote effective approaches for all children?
There will also be time to network, share approaches that are working well in your area and discuss where additional support would help.
Make the most of your visit
As sponsor of the School Improvement Theatre, AoEA is keen to bring more local authority voices into the conversation.
Eric has selected conference sessions across both days that may be particularly relevant to local authority colleagues. Take a look at the accompanying flyer to help plan your visit, with sessions covering inclusion, inspection, governance and partnership working.
If you are only attending on Thursday 19 November, visit Stand D68 to meet AoEA Chair Les Walton CBE and the team, discuss the network and catch up on the meeting.
Book your place
Places at the network meeting are limited. Please book in advance to join the conversation.
Book your place at the LA School Improvement Network meeting
Please share this invitation with your team and local authority colleagues, within your region and beyond.