Active Schools’ Conference 2025/2026

The Active Schools’ Conference 2025Every Move Matters

Welcome to The Active Schools’ Conference 2025 — a celebration of the power of movement and the vital role you play in shaping the lives of children.This year, we shine a spotlight on the impact of leadership, teaching, and inclusion in creating fun, active, joyful, and thriving learning environments.

Every move you make matters. From inspiring physical activity to fostering connection and confidence, your actions contribute to happier children, improved behaviour, stronger attendance, and greater readiness to learn.Together, we drive the conditions for wellbeing, belonging, and success — because when children move more, they thrive more.

Let’s explore, share, and energise our practice — because your impact is powerful, and it starts with every move.

HEADLINERS

• Iain Anderson - Team Leader for Physical Education, School Sport & Physical Activity, DfE
• Kate Thornton-Bousfield - CEO, AfPE
• Kelly Fellows - National Development Manager for Inclusion (SEND), Youth Sport Trust
• Katie Scott (CYP) - Mental Health Lead, Sport England

Join the Active Schools Conference to spark fresh ideas, engage in meaningful discussions, and shape your plans for the new school year. Whether you're just beginning your journey or already have physical activity deeply rooted in your school culture, this event is designed to support and inspire you.

Our sessions will guide you in developing your own active school approach, with a focus on four key areas: Policy, Environment, Opportunities and Stakeholders. You'll discover practical opportunities to enrich student learning and strengthen your school’s programmes.

The day will feature keynote speakers from national partner organisations, alongside panel discussions and interactive workshops. These sessions will help you tap into the insights of expert voices and seasoned leaders — including headteachers, school staff, researchers, and local specialists.

LeadingFor: Headteachers, Senior Leadership Teams, Governors

• Reflect on and shape your school’s culture and vision to create a future-ready approach.
• Plan and deliver enriching, memorable experiences that lead to happier children, improved attendance, and better learners.
• Ensure consistent, high-quality provision through effective workforce development and ongoing support.

Relevant to: Curriculum design, teaching and learning, inclusion, family engagement and support, behaviour, attendance, funding, active travel, and play (both indoors and outdoors).

TeachingFor: PE Leads, School Support Staff

• Develop and deliver high-quality curriculum content with clear planning, progression, and effective monitoring.
• Strengthen pedagogy and deepen subject knowledge to enhance teaching impact.
• Champion inclusive approaches that engage less active pupils and support students with SEND.
• Promote PE, sport, and physical activity as tools for fun, leisure, social development, health, and performance.

Relevant to: PE and Sport Premium funding, subject leadership, staff development and training, inclusive practice, and wider enrichment opportunities

IncludingFor: SENCOs, Family Support Practitioners, PE Leads

• Assess individual needs by understanding the wider context of your setting, including family environments and lived experiences.
• Build your knowledge around trauma, neurodiversity, and additional needs to shape a more inclusive and supportive approach.
• Access practical strategies, guidance, and methodologies that can be applied in real settings.

Relevant to: Engaging parents and carers, improving attendance and behaviour, and promoting inclusion for pupils with diverse needs and life experiences.

Don't miss out on this fantastic chance to connect with fellow professionals and learn from industry experts. Mark your calendars and get ready for a day of inspiration and growth at the Active Schools' Conference 2025/2026!

For up to date information about this conference please visit https://www.move-more.org/active-schools-conference-2025/