Booking opens for inaugural National Play Conference

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’ve already seen significant momentum build in parliament, including the formation of the APPG 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.”