Booking has officially opened for the first-ever National Play Conference, a landmark event delivered in partnership between SAPCA and Play England. Taking place on Friday 9 October 2026 at The Slate, University of Warwick, the conference will bring together professionals from across the play sector to explore the future of play provision, design and policy in the UK.
The National Play Conference aims to create a dedicated platform for knowledge-sharing, collaboration and innovation, uniting stakeholders from across the public, private and voluntary sectors. With a programme featuring expert speakers, panel discussions and networking opportunities, the event will address the challenges and opportunities facing play today – while championing its vital role in supporting healthier, more active communities.
Eugene Minogue, Executive Director of Play England, said: “This conference marks an important moment for the play sector. Following the launch of Play England’s ambitious 10-year strategy in 2025, this event reflects our commitment to putting play firmly on the national agenda.
“We have already seen significant momentum build in parliament, including the formation of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Play, and this conference is a natural next step in bringing the sector together to drive forward that ambition. Play is fundamental to children’s development and community wellbeing, and I would strongly encourage everyone who works in play to attend.”
Richard Shaw, CEO of SAPCA, added: “Creating safe, sustainable and innovative opportunities and places for play that encourage movement, creativity and exploration has never been more important. The National Play Conference will cater for the entire play sector, from those responsible for enabling, providing, operating and managing play – from playworkers and local authority teams to private providers and physical activity operators – to the designers, builders and maintainers of play spaces.
“With insight, inspiration and practical takeaways at its core, the National Play Conference aims to inform, challenge and connect the entire play community.”
Through a carefully curated programme of keynote addresses, panel debates and practical learning sessions, the event will explore the most pressing issues shaping play today and into the future. With interest expected to be high, early booking is encouraged.
Sponsored by Kompan, the conference is set to become a key date in the sector calendar, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of play and strengthen collaboration across the industry.
For more information and to book a place at the conference, visit: sapca.org.uk/events/national-play-conference/