When and where is the Childcare & Education Expo National 2026?

The National event takes place on Friday 2nd October 2026 and Saturday 3rd October 2026 at the Coventry Building Society Arena, Judds Lane, Longford, Coventry, CV6 6GE. Opening hours are 10am – 4pm both days

Is the event free to attend?

Yes, visitor entry to the Expo is free. Registration typically opens in advance of the event, allowing you to secure your free place, book seminar sessions and plan your visit

How do I register for the event?

You can register your interest via the official website: https://www.childcareeducationexpo.co.uk/national-register-interest. Once registration opens, you will be able to secure your free ticket

Can I bring children to the event?

No children under the age of 16, including babies, will be allowed into the seminars, with no exceptions

How do I get to the venue?

The venue is easily accessible by car (Junction 3 M6, exit A444 Coventry) with on-site parking. The new Coventry Arena train station is next to the CBS arena. The main Coventry railway station is approximately 6 miles away, with black cabs available for a 10-15 minute ride costing around £10

Where can I find accommodation for the event?

Broadway Events works with Event Express to provide discounted hotel accommodation for exhibitors and attendees at hotels around the CBS arena. You can contact Event Express directly on +44 (0)1905 732737 or use their online booking service

Childcare & Education Expo

Event overview

Overview

Childcare & Education Expo is where early years leaders and professionals from the UK and internationally come together to stay ahead and discover new ideas .

The event connects you with the people, products and insights shaping the future of early education .

From strategies to support staff and business, to the latest thinking on child development, wellbeing and play, the event delivers practical ideas and inspiration through a range of expert speaker-led CPD sessions

TL;DR

1The UK's largest early years event with over 4,000 professionals attending
2Over 100 leading suppliers showcasing the latest products, resources and services
3More than 40 hours of educational content including CPD-accredited seminars, interactive workshops and peer-to-peer
4Access to over 80 expert speakers including special guests Alistair Bryce-Clegg and Professor Sam
5Free entry for all early years professionals

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Owners and senior leaders of day nursery settings, responsible for strategic direction, procurement and business growth

Operational managers and their deputies who oversee daily nursery activities, staff and curriculum delivery

Leaders of pre-school settings, focused on early years education and care for children aged 2–4

Senior school leaders with responsibility for early years foundation stage (EYFS) provision within primary schools

Home-based childcare providers seeking resources, training and networking opportunities to enhance their practice

Specialist leaders overseeing early years provision across multiple settings or within larger organisations

Independent advisors, trainers and specialists who support early years settings with expertise in areas such as SEND, curriculum and wellbeing

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Companies offering learning materials, toys, books, furniture and equipment for early years settings

Organisations providing support services such as recruitment, training, insurance, finance and legal advice for the childcare sector

Businesses specialising in digital learning tools, management software, communication platforms and other technology solutions for early education

Publishers of educational resources, curricula, assessment tools and professional development materials for early years practitioners

Providers of products, services and training focused on supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities

New and innovative businesses in early education, showcased in the dedicated Start-Up Zone

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Coventry Building Society Arena

Judds Lane, CV6 6GE Coventry, United Kingdom

Facilities

Parking

On-site parking with 2,200 spaces across Car Parks A, B, C, and D . Car Parks A, B & C: 0–1 hour free, 1–3 hours £6.50, 3–8 hours £10.50, 8–24 hours £16.50. Hotel parking £8.00 . Car Park D is a premium car park with higher charges . Rail passengers can use Car Parks A & B when using Coventry Arena Station; rail parking costs £6.00 per day . Prices subject to change. Pay at pay stations before exiting

2,200 spaces · £16.50/day

Accessibility

The venue offers step-free access routes, designated accessible entrances, and elevators to multiple levels- - . Wheelchair-designated positions (up to 86) and companion seats are available- . Accessible restrooms are provided- . Staff assistance is available upon request- . Accessible parking spaces are located near venue entrances- . Coventry Arena station is step-free category B1 (ramp access to platforms)

On-site shuttle

There is no on-site shuttle service within the venue. The exhibition halls are within walking distance of the entrances and car parks. The Coventry Arena train station is adjacent to the venue (5-minute walk)

Food options

The Anecdote, The Mill Bar & Brasserie, Coffee Shop, Concession stands

On-site dining

Parking: On-site car parking available. Car Parks A, B & C charges: 0–1 hour free; 1–3 hours £6.50; 3–8 hours £10.50; 8–24 hours £16.50. Premium Car Park D has higher charges. Prices subject to change by the venue

Attend

Entry & tickets

Free registration

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Friday 2nd October 202610:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Saturday 3rd October 202610:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Ticket info

Badge collection

Visitor registration typically opens in advance; register to secure your free place, book seminar sessions, and plan your visit

Ticket notes

Free entry for visitors

Who runs the show

Organisers

Broadway Events

Organiser

Website

Broadway Events Sales Team

Exhibitor Sales

Email Call Website

What's on

Programme

CPD-Accredited Seminar

Event days

12:30–15:15

Typical time

Official agenda

This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

Speakers

Dr Alistair Bryce-Clegg

Early Years Expert, Author, Former Headteacher @ ABC Does

High-quality continuous provision; emotional safety in learning spaces

Professor Sam Wass

Psychologist, Researcher, Broadcaster

Child development, attention, stress, and emotional regulation in early childhood

John Parnell

Educational Entertainer @ The Hoop Guy

Physical activity, interactive hoop workshops, high-energy performances

Catherine Mole MBE

Chief Executive @ Dingley's Promise

SEND inclusion, equity, and leadership in early years

Belonging Before Learning: Emotional Safety in Learning Spaces

CPD-Accredited Seminar

Main Stage

Growing Slow: Repetition, Rhythm, Brain Development & Attention in Under-2s

CPD-Accredited Seminar

Main Stage

Friday, Oct 2, 2026

12:30 – 13:15

Strategic Leadership for Sustainable Growth

CPD-Accredited Seminar

Main Stage

14:30 – 15:15

Continuous Provision Where the Real Learning Happens

CPD-Accredited Seminar

Main Stage

Saturday, Oct 3, 2026

12:30 – 13:15

Building a Resilient Early Years Workforce: Recruitment, Retention & Wellbeing

CPD-Accredited Seminar

Main Stage

13:30 – 14:15

A Strategic Vision: Delivering Inclusion Holistically Across Your Setting

CPD-Accredited Seminar

Main Stage

14:30 – 15:15

Exploring Regulation Reform with Ofsted

CPD-Accredited Seminar

Main Stage

Topic tracks

Leadership & StrategyCurriculum & PedagogyWorkforce & WellbeingInclusion & SENDRegulation & Compliance

Co-located events

SEND in Early Years Conference

Separate ticket

Awards

UK's Longest-Running and Award-Winning Early Years Event

Annual

Childcare & Education Expo is recognised as the UK's longest-running and award-winning early years event, serving the early education sector since 2009. The event has gained the trust of a 60,000-strong community of nursery owners, directors, managers and practitioners

Best Trade ShowIndustry Excellence

source

Government supporters

Ofsted

Regulatory Body

NDNA

National Day Nurseries Association

Early Years Alliance

Early Years Membership Organisation

Early Years Wales

Early Years Membership Organisation (Wales)

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Current edition

2026 · 3,000 visitors · 100 exhibitors

Current edition details are based on the official event page; specific attendee and exhibitor counts have not been published yet

Forecast — not final

Visitors

2,000

Exhibitors

100

Growth over time

Edition recap

Childcare & Education Expo Midlands 2025: Post-Show Highlights

On 26th – 27th September, Childcare & Education Expo Midlands 2025 welcomed over 2000 attendees and over 100 exhibitors to the CBS Arena in Coventry. This marks the second record-breaking event for Childcare & Education Expo in 2025 following the success of our London show further solidifying its status as the UK's leading trade event for the early years sector

Highlights included the successful launch of the SEND in Early Years Conference, a free session from. His Majesty's Chief Inspector Sir Martyn Oliver on Ofsted updates, and the return of Michael Rosen with two CPD seminars and a popular book signing

The event featured more than 40 hours of CPD early years educational content, and access to over 40 expert speakers covering topics such as outdoor learning, leading success, supporting regulation, and the power of storytelling

New this edition

1
SEND in Early Years Conference
A one-day conference for Early Years Leaders, including owners, managers, lead SEND advisors, SENCOs, and SLT leads, launched at the Midlands 2025 edition. It will return for the National 2026 edition
Source
2
Ofsted Advice Corner
A dedicated space offering guidance and support on inspection and regulatory matters, introduced as a new feature in 2024
Source
3
Share & Support Hub
A dedicated space for open discussions on sector challenges, fostering networking and idea-sharing. Introduced as a new feature in 2024
Source
4
What's My Why? Wall
A giant interactive art piece for visitors to share their reasons for working in early education, initiated as a campaign to address the recruitment crisis. Launched at the London 2024 edition
Source
5
Champions of Sport
An interactive space focused on the benefits of physical play, introduced as a new addition for the London 2025 edition
Source
6
Early Years Breakfast Summit
An invitation-only summit for Nursery Owners, Directors and Senior Leaders, offering a focused space for networking and discussion. Featured at the Midlands 2024 and subsequent editions
Source

Testimonials

Michael's seminar was nothing short of inspiring. It's rare to get the chance to hear from someone with such passion and experience. The practical tips he shared will definitely shape the way I approach language development with children
Attendee · 2025

The range of topics covered was impressive. I walked away with new ideas that I can immediately implement in my setting, especially around early literacy and creative learning
Delegate · 2025

It's refreshing to have open conversations with people who are as committed to the development of early childhood education as I am. I've learned so much already and am excited to implement new ideas in my setting
Attendee · 2025

Speaking directly with companies we're considering for supplies was incredibly valuable. It made all the difference to see and discuss things in person
First-time attendee · 2024

It was a fantastic opportunity to network and learn from industry experts. The CPD sessions were excellent and I've left with so many ideas to implement in my setting
Attendee · 2024

Next edition outlook

2026-10-02 – 2026-10-03

confirmed

Childcare & Education Expo National 2026 returns to the Coventry Building Society Arena on 2–3 October 2026, building on the record-breaking momentum of 2025. The 2026 edition is expected to feature over 100 exhibitors and attract more than 3,000 early years professionals. New for 2026: a dedicated VIP Lounge for senior leaders, a Business Stage content stream focused on operational strategy, and enhanced workshop programmes covering wellbeing, play, outdoor learning, behaviour, and SEND The SEND in Early Years Conference will return by popular demand. The event continues to offer free CPD-accredited seminars, interactive workshops, and direct access to Ofsted and industry regulators

Introduction of a VIP Lounge for nursery owners, directors and senior leaders to network and recharge New Business Stage content stream with targeted seminars on recruitment, AI, digital play, funding, and growth strategies Enhanced workshop programme covering wellbeing, play, outdoor learning, behaviour, and SEND Return of the SEND in Early Years Conference with an expanded programme Free sessions with Ofsted covering the latest updates and Q&A Improved entry experience with faster entry times and morning queue entertainment New All-Access Passes making seminar attendance more affordable

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The 2025 editions of Childcare & Education Expo cemented the event's status as the UK's leading trade show for the early years sector. The London edition broke records with 3,881 attendees and 120 exhibitors, while the Midlands edition followed with over 2,000 attendees and 100 exhibitors, marking the second record-breaking event of the year. The launch of the SEND in Early Years Conference addressed the growing demand for inclusive practice, and the presence of His Majesty's Chief Inspector Sir Martyn Oliver provided a unique opportunity for delegates to engage directly with Ofsted on regulatory updates. Michael Rosen's seminars on storytelling drew hundreds, underscoring the sector's focus on literacy and creativity. With over 40 hours of CPD content across multiple streams, the 2025 expos delivered practical, actionable insights on topics ranging from outdoor learning to staff wellbeing, directly responding to the pressures of recruitment, funding, and regulation facing the sector

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The 2025 editions attracted a highly qualified audience of early years professionals, including Day Nursery Owners & Directors, Nursery Managers, Pre-School Owners & Managers, School Headteachers, Childminders, and Early Years Consultants. Attendees were predominantly decision-makers actively seeking products, resources, and training to improve their settings. The event's CPD-accredited content and networking opportunities were praised for their practical value. One first-time attendee noted: 'Speaking directly with companies we're considering for supplies was incredibly valuable. It made all the difference to see and discuss things in person.'- 19 Another attendee highlighted: 'It was a fantastic opportunity to network and learn from industry experts. The CPD sessions were excellent and I've left with so many ideas to implement in my setting.'- 19 The presence of senior leaders and regulators, including the Minister for Early Education and His Majesty's Chief Inspector, further underscored the event's credibility and its role as a forum for high-level sector dialogue

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitors at the 2025 editions reported strong engagement and lead generation. The Midlands edition was described by one exhibitor as 'our best so far in terms of our product resonating with nursery owners, plenty of leads generated and it's just day one of two.'- With over 100 exhibitors at the Midlands show and 120 at the London show, the event provided direct access to thousands of qualified buyers. The exhibition floor featured immersive feature areas, including the Share & Support Hub, Ofsted Advice Corner, and interactive zones, which facilitated meaningful conversations between exhibitors and attendees. While specific ROI metrics are not published, the high rebooking rates and the organiser's decision to expand the event to two record-breaking editions in 2025 suggest strong exhibitor satisfaction and commercial value

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

United Kingdom

Why it matters

Childcare & Education Expo National 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment for the UK early years sector. With unprecedented government investment of over £9.5 billion in early years entitlements, expanded childcare places, and major regulatory reforms from Ofsted, the sector is undergoing its most significant transformation in a decade. Yet providers face acute workforce shortages, rising operational costs, and growing SEND demand. The Expo provides a critical platform where over 3,000 professionals can access practical CPD, discover innovative products and services from 100+ suppliers, and engage directly with regulators and thought leaders. For buyers, it offers a concentrated opportunity to compare solutions, secure show deals, and stay compliant with evolving frameworks. For exhibitors, it delivers direct access to decision-makers actively seeking resources to navigate change. The event's new VIP Lounge and Breakfast Summit underscore its commitment to supporting senior leaders with the strategic insights needed to build sustainable, high-quality settings in a rapidly evolving landscape

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Workforce Shortages and Retention Challenges

The early years sector is struggling with recruitment and retention, particularly for qualified practitioners in baby and toddler rooms. The Department for Education estimated a need for 35,000 additional staff between 2023 and 2025 to meet expanded entitlement demand, but the workforce grew by only 20,600 in that period. NFER research suggests recruitment may have stalled, with staff numbers rising by just 600 between 2024 and 2025. Staffing absorbs around 75% of total nursery expenditure, and many providers are competing with higher-paying sectors

Source

Expanded Childcare Entitlements and Funding

The government expects to provide over £9.5 billion for early years entitlements in 2026/27, more than doubling annual public investment since 2023/24. Local authorities will receive average funding increases of 4.3% for under-twos, 4.4% for two-year-olds and 4.95% for three- and four-year-olds. The national average funding rate for 2026/27 is £12.04 for under twos. However, funding rates still lag behind rising costs, with three-quarters of nurseries operating at a loss or only breaking even

Source

SEND Demand and Inclusion Pressures

Rising numbers of children with additional needs, combined with delays in assessment and inconsistent access to support, are placing significant pressure on early years settings. Settings are embedding inclusion more deeply into everyday practice, including early identification through daily observation and introducing SEND champions. The SEND in Early Years Conference at the Expo directly addresses this trend

Source

Ofsted Inspection Reform

From April 2026, Ofsted will inspect early years providers more frequently, with all providers on the Early Years Register inspected at least once every four years, replacing the previous six-year window. Updated inspection frameworks from September 2026 include greater focus on safeguarding, safer sleeping and weaning practices. The Expo's Ofsted Advice Corner helps providers navigate these changes

Source

Market Consolidation and Growth

The day-nursery market has grown more than 50% in value since 2017, from around £7 billion to £10.5 billion. Consolidation is accelerating, with the top three childcare groups holding only around 7% of the market but larger groups acquiring rapidly. Average sale prices rose 3.8% in 2025 However, the average nursery faces around £45,000 per annum in employer's national insurance contributions following April 2025 changes

Source

Digital Integration and Technology in Early Years

Technology is playing a greater role in administration, communication with families, and pedagogy. Settings are increasingly using digital tools for management information and data-driven decision-making, though under-utilisation of data within management systems remains a challenge. The Childcare & Education Expo National 2026 features a dedicated focus on EdTech in Early Years

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

What does growth actually look like in childcare and early years in 2026?

Read

Ofsted figures show provider numbers falling despite rising demand

Read

Early Years in 2026 – Trends, policy and practice

Read

The Biggest Challenges Facing Early Years Providers Today

Read

Childcare & Education Expo London Announces Move to Excel London for 2027

Read

Concerns early years recruitment has 'stalled'

Read

UK Early Years and Childcare Event Circuit 2026–2027

Next 12 months (September 2026 – September 2027)

The UK early years events calendar is dense, with several major national and regional gatherings complementing the Childcare & Education Expo National. Key events include the Nursery World Business Summit (March), the Nursery Management Show (June and November), the Nursery World Show (May), and the Childcare & Education Expo London (March 2027). These events range from one-day conferences focused on business strategy and leadership to larger trade shows with extensive exhibition floors. The circuit provides year-round opportunities for professional development, networking, and supplier engagement, with the National Expo in October serving as a major autumn anchor

4 Mar 2026

Nursery World Business Summit 2026

London, United Kingdom

One-day conference at the America Square Conference Centre. Rates £429 + VAT

website

15 May 2026

Nursery World Show 2026

London, United Kingdom

One-day event at the Business Design Centre, London

website

26 Jun 2026

Nursery Management Show (Birmingham) 2026

Birmingham, United Kingdom

Held at the NEC Birmingham

website

26 Sep 2026

Nursery World Awards 2026

London, United Kingdom

Ceremony at The Brewery, London

website

2–3 Oct 2026

Childcare & Education Expo National 2026

Coventry, United Kingdom

Expected to welcome more than 3,000 professionals. Features 30+ speakers, 100+ exhibitors, and SEND conference

website

27 Nov 2026

Nursery Management Show (London) 2026

London, United Kingdom

Held at Excel London

website

5–6 Mar 2027

Childcare & Education Expo London 2027

London, United Kingdom

UK's largest business and networking event for day nursery owners, directors, managers and early years leaders

website

14 May 2027

Nursery World's Big Day Out 2027

London, United Kingdom

Held at the Business Design Centre, London

website

Spring (March–May)

Nursery World Business Summit 2026Childcare & Education Expo London 2027Nursery World Show 2026Nursery World's Big Day Out 2027

Early-year conferences and shows focusing on business strategy, large-scale exhibitions, and celebration

Summer (June–August)

Nursery Management Show (Birmingham) 2026

Mid-year management-focused event for leaders and managers

Autumn (September–November)

Nursery World Awards 2026Childcare & Education Expo National 2026Nursery Management Show (London) 2026

Peak season for awards, the national anchor event, and late-year trade shows

Event dates and details sourced from official event websites and trade press. The Childcare & Education Expo National 2026 serves as the central autumn event in the UK early years circuit, complemented by regional and London editions throughout the year

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · GBP

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

BHX

Birmingham Airport (BHX)

Birmingham Airport is the nearest major international airport and only a 20-minute drive from the venue . Direct train connections from Birmingham International to Coventry take approximately 15–20 minutes, with onward travel to Coventry Arena station- . A taxi from the airport to the venue costs around £31

22.9 km

to venue

20 minutes

by car

CVT

Coventry Airport (CVT)

Coventry Airport is a smaller regional airport located approximately 11 km from the venue- . It serves limited general aviation and some charter flights. For most international travellers, Birmingham Airport is the primary gateway

11 km

to venue

15 minutes

by car

EMA

East Midlands Airport (EMA)

East Midlands Airport is a secondary option for international flights, located about 50 km north of the venue. It offers flights from European and some long-haul destinations. Taxis and rental cars are available, but train connections require a change at Birmingham or Derby

50 km

to venue

40–50 minutes

by car

LTN

London Luton Airport (LTN)

London Luton Airport is a major international airport serving London and the South East. It is approximately 100 km from the venue. Train connections from Luton Airport Parkway to Coventry via London are available but take over 2 hours

100 km

to venue

75–90 minutes

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

On-site / Premium

Coventry Building Society Arena

USD 134–200 / night

The on-site DoubleTree by Hilton offers 121 bedrooms- and is within walking distance of the venue- . Prices from third-party booking sites range from $71 to $134+ per night

Mid-range

Coventry city centre & M6 corridor

USD 80–150 / night

Includes 3-4 star hotels such as Novotel Coventry M6 J3 (approx. 1.2 km from venue)- , Ramada Hotel & Suites- , and Premier Inn Coventry City Centre- . Rates from third-party sites start around $59-$80+ per night

Budget

Coventry city centre & outskirts

USD 55–90 / night

Includes budget chain hotels such as ibis Coventry Centre- , Britannia Hotel- , and Travelodge- . Estimated rates from £45-£70 ($55-$90) per night

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

Train

Estimated costVaries by distance; rail parking at venue costs £6.00 per day for those driving to the station

Best forCoventry Arena Station (adjacent to venue, 5-min walk) on the Leamington Spa–Nuneaton line . Hourly service in each direction . Additional services may operate between Coventry Arena and Coventry main station for major events

Coventry Arena Station is unstaffed with step-free access (category B1) but no lifts . Main Coventry station is 6 miles away with black cabs outside (~10-15 min journey)

Bus

Estimated costStandard single fare (exact price not published; check nxbus.co.uk/coventry for current fares)

Best forNumber 20: Direct from Coventry Railway Station to Coventry Building Society Arena, stopping on Foleshill Road (short walk from venue) - . Runs seven days a week until 11pm

Other nearby routes include National Express Coventry 3, 5, 20A/B/C, Stagecoach 48, 60, 703, and Arriva 78/78A

Taxi / Ride-hailing

Estimated cost£10–£15

Best forFrom Coventry main station to venue (approx. 6 miles, 10-15 mins)

Uber, Bolt, and black cabs operate city-wide- . Local taxi service: MGMTaxi (02476 375550) . Birmingham Airport to venue taxi ~£31

Cycle

Estimated costLime: pay-per-ride; Hygglo: from £15/day

Best forCycle lanes connect the city centre to the venue; bike hire available via Lime (short-term rental) or Hygglo (peer-to-peer hire from £15/day)

Cycle One Stop offers delivery of hired bikes . Ryton Pools cycle hire available weekends and school holidays

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
Standard Visitor visa (business)	Nationals of countries listed in the UK visa national list who do not qualify for visa-free entry or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), and who wish to attend the expo for business purposes. This includes nationals of China, India, Nigeria, Turkey, and many other countries	$170.00	3 weeks (15 working days) for standard processing outside the UK- ; priority (5 working days) and super priority (24 hours) services available for an additional fee
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)	Nationals of countries that do not require a visa for short visits (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, many EU countries) who are visiting for business or academic activities but not working in the UK	$25.00	Typically issued within hours or a few days; apply online before travel
Permitted Paid Engagement Visitor	Experts invited to the UK for a specific paid engagement (e.g., speaking at the expo for a UK-based organiser) who do not qualify for visa-free entry or an ETA	$170.00	3 weeks (15 working days) standard outside the UK

Nationals of the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and most EU/EEA countries do not need a visa for short business visits (up to 6 months) but may require an ETA from 2025 onwards . Nationals of Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan (with specific passport conditions) also do not need a visa . For a full list of visa nationalities, refer to the UK Immigration Rules Appendix Visitor: Visa national list

ATA Carnets are accepted in the UK for temporarily importing goods for trade fairs, exhibitions, and professional equipment . They allow goods to be moved temporarily without paying customs duties or taxes . Carnets are valid for up to one year and can be used multiple times . They must be presented at every entry, exit, or transit point . Goods must be re-exported within the authorised time limit (usually 24 months) . Consumable goods (e.g., food, beverages) and items intended for sale, hire, or processing are excluded . In the UK, ATA Carnets are issued by authorised Chambers of Commerce

Official visa page

Weather

Coventry in October typically has mild autumn conditions. Average daytime highs range from 13°C to 15°C (55–59°F), with overnight lows around 7–8°C (45–46°F)- . Rainfall averages 66–72 mm (2.6–2.8 inches) over 13–14 rain days- - . Mornings can be foggy, and frost is possible from late October- . Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable footwear

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

By Air: Birmingham International Airport (BHX) is the primary gateway, 20 minutes by car or train from the venue . By Rail: Coventry Arena Station is adjacent to the venue (5-minute walk) on the Leamington Spa–Nuneaton line . Trains run hourly; journey time from Coventry main station is 8 minutes- . Main Coventry station is 6 miles away, with black cabs available (£10, 10–15 mins) . London Euston to Coventry is 55 minutes by train- . By Road: The venue is 800 yards from Junction 3 of the M6 . By Bus: Number 20 bus runs direct from Coventry station to the arena (7 days a week until 11pm)- ; other routes (3, 703) serve Arena Park- . By Bike: Cycle routes connect the city centre to the arena; Lime e-bikes and West Midlands cycle hire are available

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Punctuality and Professionalism

British business culture places a high value on punctuality. Seminar and workshop start times are strictly observed. Arrive early to allow time for registration and navigating the exhibition halls. A firm handshake with eye contact is the standard greeting in professional settings

Networking Style

The early years sector in the UK is known for its collaborative and supportive community. The Expo's Share & Support Hub and VIP Lounge are designed to facilitate open conversations and peer-to-peer learning. Bringing business cards is recommended. The British tend to be polite and formal with new contacts, with a preference for building rapport gradually

CPD and Professional Development

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is highly valued in the UK early years sector. The Expo offers over 40 hours of CPD-accredited content across seminars, workshops, and peer-to-peer sessions. Plan your schedule in advance to maximise learning opportunities

Regulatory Focus – Ofsted

Ofsted inspections and regulatory compliance are central concerns for UK early years providers. The Expo's Ofsted Advice Corner is a unique feature where attendees can speak directly with experts about inspection frameworks and regulatory updates

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Birmingham Airport (BHX)

Birmingham Airport (BHX) is the primary gateway, served by major airlines including British Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa, KLM, and Ryanair. Direct flights are available from most European capitals, New York (JFK/EWR), Dubai, Doha, and many other international hubs. Book at least 6–8 weeks in advance for best fares. From BHX, take a train to Coventry (20 mins) or a taxi (£31, 20 mins)

Visa

Most non-UK nationals require either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK for business purposes. A Standard Visitor visa (business) is required for nationals of visa-national countries . The visa costs £135 (approx. $170) and allows a stay of up to 6 months for attending conferences and meetings - . For nationals of visa-exempt countries, an ETA (£10, approx. $13) may be required from 2025 onwards . Applications should be made well in advance of travel; standard processing takes 3 weeks

Processing: 3 weeks (standard)

You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before your travel date- . You must provide a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and evidence that you can support yourself during your stay- . If you are attending as a paid speaker or expert, you may need a Permitted Paid Engagement visa or a Standard Visitor visa with the appropriate endorsement

Official

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Areas to stay

Coventry Building Society Arena (on-site) · Coventry city centre · M6 corridor (Junction 2-3)

On-site

$134 – $200+

Mid-range (3-4 star)

$80 – $150

Budget

$55 – $90

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: Birmingham Airport (BHX) is the primary gateway. Take a train from Birmingham International to Coventry (approx. 20 mins), then a taxi to the venue (£10, 10-15 mins) , or a direct taxi (£31, 20 mins)

Hotel → venue: On-site: walking distance. City centre: taxi (£10, 10-15 mins) , bus (Number 20 direct to arena), or train from Coventry station to Coventry Arena station (8 mins, adjacent to venue)

Ride-hail: Uber and Bolt operate in Coventry. Taxi from city centre to venue costs approximately £10

Public transit: Coventry Arena Station is adjacent to the venue (5-minute walk) . Main Coventry station is 6 miles away with black cabs outside . Number 20 bus runs direct from Coventry station to the arena

Parking: On-site parking with 2,200 spaces. Car Parks A, B & C: 0-1 hour free, 1-3 hours £6.50, 3-8 hours £10.50, 8-24 hours £16.50 . Hotel parking £8.00 . Car Park D is premium with higher charges

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: October

Temperature: 7–15°C (45–59°F)

Seasonality: Moderate rainfall (66–72 mm over 13–14 days); autumn conditions with occasional fog and frost risk

Packing: Pack layers: a medium-weight jacket or waterproof coat, sweaters, long-sleeved tops, and comfortable walking shoes. An umbrella is advisable. Evenings can be cool, so a scarf or light gloves may be useful

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:30Arrive at venue, park, and register
10:00Expo opens – visit key exhibitors and attend morning seminars
12:30Lunch break at on-site eateries or nearby retail park
14:00Attend CPD sessions and network in the Share & Support Hub
16:00Expo closes – depart or explore Coventry

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Friday

Friday tends to be slightly less crowded than Saturday, allowing more time for in-depth conversations with exhibitors and easier access to popular seminars. However, both days offer the full programme, and the SEND in Early Years Conference takes place on Friday

T-30

Register for your free ticket online — Secure your free entry ticket via the official website. Registration is free and takes a few minutes

T-14

Review the programme and select sessions — Browse the 30+ CPD-accredited sessions and workshops. Plan your schedule to avoid clashes and book paid seminars early as places are limited

T-7

Plan your travel and accommodation — Book train or coach travel. If staying overnight, consider hotels in Coventry city centre or use the event's accommodation partner Event Express for discounted rates

T-3

Print your ticket and prepare materials — Print or download your ticket to your phone. Bring business cards for networking and a notebook for session takeaways

T-1

Check weather and pack accordingly — Coventry in October can be cool and wet. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes

T-0

Arrive early and allow time for parking — The expo opens at 10:00 AM. On-site parking is available but fills quickly. Arrive by 09:30 to secure a spot and register smoothly

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day