World of Learning Conference Programme 2026 released
The World of Learning Conference & Exhibition will take place on 6 & 7 October 2026 at the NEC, Birmingham. Ahead of the event, organisers have released the Conference programme, delegate packages and early-bird rates, providing attendees with an early opportunity to explore the agenda and secure their place.
Conference Chair Robin Hoyle, Event organiser Tracy Shah and learning leader Tom McDowall are pleased to announce World of Learning’s Conference Programme for 2026, bringing together influential thinkers, practitioners and business leaders in learning and development for two days of insight, discussion and networking.
The Conference reflects the pressures and opportunities facing today’s senior L&D professionals, examining how organisations can drive productivity, future-proof their workforce, and keep human experience at the heart of business success. Bringing together leading speakers and industry experts, the programme explores how L&D teams can build adaptable workforces, strengthen leadership capability, harness artificial intelligence and create learning cultures that drive measurable business impact.
The Conference will feature prominent voices from across the industry, including this year's keynote speaker Matthew Syed, bestselling author and thought leader, exploring how a curious mindset helps us learn, adapt and succeed, and Prithwiraj Choudhury, Professor of Organisational Behaviour at LSE, asking what happens to learning when work itself changes. Matthew and Prithwiraj will be joined by an array of exceptional leading voices in the L&D space from companies including Ericsson, Tesco, JD Sports, Sea Salt Learning, Skyscanner, Barnardos, the Cabinet Office, Centre Parcs, Audible and Meta to name a few. See the full line-up.
A major theme throughout the Conference is the growing influence of AI on workplace learning. Sessions including “Change management for the successful implementation of AI at work”, “Building your AI strategy with evidence, not guesswork” and “Practical applications of AI in learning”.
Networking remains a central part of the Conference experience. If you’re a first-time World of Learning Conference Delegate, the dedicated first-time Delegate networking session helps newcomers connect with peers and get the most out of their time at the event. Delegates can also access a wide range of networking opportunities, including the Delegate drinks reception, L&D Huddle sessions and exclusive networking dinners.
A range of Delegate packages are available, including one-day, two-day, Two-Day+ and International Delegate options, with early-bird discounts until the July deadline. Visit the website for packages and discounts.
About World of Learning
World of Learning has been running for 30 years and attracts over 120 exhibitors and over 3,000 senior L&D decision makers, 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
Conference tickets and exhibition registration