World of Learning Conference & Exhibition 2026 announces free seminar programme line-up
The World of Learning Conference & Exhibition, taking place on 6 & 7 October 2026, has announced a selection of free, expert-led sessions from speakers including keynote Alex Brooker, Nick Gonios, Melanie Martinelli, David James and many more…
The World of Learning Conference & Exhibition will return to the NEC in Birmingham on 6 & 7 October 2026 and will feature a packed-full Seminar Programme open to all World of Learning attendees at no cost. While the seminar programme continues to grow, a selection of exceptional thought leaders from the L&D space have been confirmed.
The organisers are thrilled to announce that this Autumn’s keynote speaker will be Alex Brooker, Presenter and Reporter best known for co-hosting Channel 4’s The Last Leg. Known for his television work and advocacy for disability inclusion, Brooker will share perspectives on resilience and leadership in conversation with award-winning learning leader Helen Marshall on day two of the Exhibition.
Joining Alex Brooker are a distinguished line-up of industry experts including CEO of Trevato, Melanie Martinelli, presenting about how to bridge the gap between learning and performance using science-backed strategies, and TalentLMS’ Nick Gonios, VP, Learning Transformation & Company Ambassador, with a main stage keynote session titled Orchestrating high-performance ecosystems in the age of AI.
A central theme throughout the seminar programme is how L&D can utilise technology whilst maintaining a human-centred approach, including From Uncertainty to Indispensable: How L&D Leaders Win in the Age of AI presented by David James, Chief Learning Officer at 360Learning, and Authentically Human – How to nurture confidence in a rapidly evolving digital world by Author and Presenter, Liggy Webb.
Chief Psychologist at Matthew Syed Consulting, Emma Lee, will also join the line-up, drawing on her expertise in psychology to address critical talent challenges with the session Is a fixed mindset hindering learning and performance in your organisation? Other confirmed speakers include Derek Bruce (Easygenerator), Lindsey Flynn (Lernitude), Steve Wood (Crucial Learning) and Celine Floyd and Stephanie Hopper (Cappfinity), to name a few. See the line-up so far.
The programme will also feature Roundtable sessions, offering attendees the opportunity to network and take part in in-depth discussions with their peers. Among the facilitators will be Andy Chandler, CEO of Barefoot Coaching, leading a session titled What really makes change work (beyond strategy), in which participants will experience Vision Chairs and a practical coaching tool for fresh insights on how to make change happen in their organisation.
Alongside the main Conference, these free seminars provide a unique opportunity for senior L&D professionals to hear from leading L&D experts, connect with peers and gain practical strategies to apply within their own organisations. The seminar programme is continually evolving, with new speakers and sessions being added regularly for attendees to start planning their day with their must-attend sessions.
The World of Learning Exhibition 2026 is free to attend for all L&D, learning and HR professionals. Visitors can register for themselves and their colleagues on the event website.
About World of Learning
World of Learning has been running for 30 years, bringing together senior L&D decision makers and creating a space for knowledge sharing, networking and innovation. Attendees can explore the latest technologies, strategies and trends shaping the future of learning, gain practical insights from industry experts, and discover actionable takeaways to apply in their own organisations.
World of Learning Exhibition & Conference
6 & 7 October 2026
NEC, Birmingham