Discover All Events

The Women in Circus Symposium 2026 is an upcoming premier academic and cultural gathering hosted by the National Fairground and Circus Archive at the University of Sheffield. Scheduled for Wednesday, 5 August 2026, this one-day symposium takes place at the Research Commons inside the iconic Western Bank Library in Sheffield, UK. Designed as a comprehensive celebration and critical examination, the event honors the transformative roles played by female trailblazers throughout circus history. Over the centuries, women have stood as central pillars in the evolution of circus arts, shaping the sector as spectacular performers, savvy promotional strategists, visionary entrepreneurs, and pioneering venue managers. This symposium brings together international academics, social historians, circus practitioners, and cultural researchers to explore the multifaceted narratives of these women, highlighting their achievements, navigating their unique institutional challenges, and analyzing their lasting impact on contemporary performative heritage. Historical Context and Theme: Celebrating the Legacy of Rope Women Held in conjunction with the landmark exhibition "Rope Women," the symposium highlights the courageous history of the all-female aerial troupe "Skinning the Cat." Co-curated by aerial artist and entrepreneur Rebecca Truman alongside Senior Archivist Arantza Barrutia, with an authoritative introduction by Professor Vanessa Toulmin, "Rope Women" provides a vital visual and material backdrop for the day's scholarly discussions. Symposium attendees will examine how gender dynamics influenced training, stagecraft, financial independence, and body image across different historical epochs—from the pioneering female jesters and Victorian clowns of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries to modern aerialists defying physical gravity and societal norms. By contextualizing circus history through a feminist lens, the event reclaims showwomen heritage as a form of matriarchal resistance and creative liberation. Comprehensive Program and Interactive Keynote Sessions The morning proceedings commence at 09:30 AM with welcoming remarks from Anna Clements, Director of Library Services and University Librarian, followed by an insightful presentation on archival co-production by Senior Archivist Arantza Barrutia. Throughout the morning session, delegates will hear compelling papers detailing historical research, including studies on Victorian circus clowns, female jesters, and early circus management. Following a mid-day networking lunch, delegates are invited to participate in an exclusive guided tour of the "Rope Women" exhibition, led directly by curators Rebecca Truman and Arantza Barrutia. Afternoon panel sessions will delve into complex themes such as travelling showwomen, dangerous animal acts in the twentieth century, and entrepreneurial agency in British contemporary circus. The day concludes with a dynamic, forward-looking panel discussion titled "What Does the Future Look Like for Women in Circus?", bringing together renowned industry experts and scholars to discuss gender parity, inclusivity, and creative sustainability. Exhibition Highlights, Networking, and Archival Engagement Beyond academic papers, the symposium offers delegates direct access to the world-renowned holdings of the National Fairground and Circus Archive housed at the University of Sheffield. Attendees will have rare opportunities to interact with primary source materials, historical promotional posters, rare photography, and personal diaries of famous performers. Interdisciplinary dialogue is strongly encouraged through dedicated interactive Q&A segments after each presentation, structured networking coffee breaks, and an inclusive atmosphere designed to connect emerging student researchers with established global scholars. To support accessible scholarly exchange, the symposium is offered in a hybrid format, allowing both in-person participation in Sheffield and live online streaming for international audiences. Practical Information and Registration Details Attendance for the Women in Circus Symposium 2026 is free of charge for both in-person delegates and online attendees, though advance online registration is strictly required due to limited seating capacity at the Research Commons. In-person registration closes on Friday, 17 July 2026. The University of Sheffield is also offering a dedicated student travel bursary to support UK-based scholars and practitioners attending the event. Located on Level 5 of the Western Bank Library in Sheffield (S10 2TN), the venue is fully accessible via public transport, with detailed access guides available online.

Full Steam Ahead: Leadership & Influence on the Right Track is an upcoming professional development event organised by AICPA & CIMA in the United Kingdom. Scheduled for 23 July 2026, the event is designed for professionals who want to strengthen their leadership presence, improve their ability to influence others and develop more effective approaches to communication and professional collaboration. Hosted at Network Rail – The Quadrant in Milton Keynes, the event provides an opportunity for finance professionals, accountants, business leaders and emerging managers to explore the practical relationship between leadership and influence. The programme is particularly relevant for professionals who want to move beyond technical expertise and become more effective in guiding teams, communicating ideas and contributing to strategic decisions. Leadership in modern organisations requires more than formal authority. Professionals increasingly need to influence colleagues, stakeholders and decision-makers through credibility, communication, trust and practical business understanding. This event offers a valuable setting for exploring these capabilities in a professional environment. Why Leadership and Influence Matter in Modern Finance The role of finance professionals has evolved significantly. Accountants and finance teams are no longer focused only on reporting historical performance or managing financial records. Today, they are increasingly expected to provide insight, support strategic decisions, manage uncertainty and communicate complex information to a wide range of stakeholders. In this environment, leadership and influence have become essential professional capabilities. A finance professional may have excellent technical knowledge, but achieving meaningful organisational impact often depends on the ability to explain ideas clearly, build trust and influence decisions. The Full Steam Ahead event focuses on this important transition. Participants can explore how effective leadership behaviours can help them make stronger contributions in meetings, projects and organisational decision-making. The event also provides an opportunity to consider how personal credibility and communication style can affect professional influence. For emerging leaders, these skills can help create a foundation for career progression. For experienced professionals, they can provide new approaches to managing relationships, leading change and influencing outcomes. Developing Practical Leadership Skills for Professional Success A central value of a leadership-focused event is the opportunity to connect professional theory with practical workplace situations. Leadership is not simply a title or position. It is demonstrated through everyday actions, including how professionals communicate, make decisions, respond to challenges and support others. The event is designed to help attendees consider the practical behaviours that contribute to effective leadership. These may include building confidence in professional conversations, presenting ideas persuasively and understanding how different people respond to communication styles. Participants can also gain insight into the importance of self-awareness. Understanding personal strengths, communication habits and areas for improvement can help professionals become more intentional in their leadership approach. Leadership development is particularly valuable for professionals who are preparing to take on greater responsibility. Whether the next step involves managing a team, leading a project or becoming a more influential adviser, stronger leadership skills can help professionals navigate new responsibilities with greater confidence. Understanding the Power of Influence in Business Environments Influence is an important professional skill because many workplace decisions are made through collaboration rather than direct authority. Finance professionals frequently work across departments and must communicate with senior executives, operational teams, clients and other stakeholders. The ability to influence effectively requires a combination of communication, credibility and relationship-building. It involves understanding what matters to different stakeholders and presenting information in a way that connects with their priorities. For example, a finance professional may need to explain the financial implications of a business proposal to a non-finance audience. Technical information alone may not be enough. The professional must also communicate the wider business impact and demonstrate why the recommendation matters. The Full Steam Ahead programme is relevant to professionals who want to improve this type of communication. By focusing on leadership and influence, the event can help attendees think about how they present ideas, build professional relationships and contribute to important conversations. A Valuable Learning Opportunity for Finance Professionals AICPA & CIMA events are designed to support the continuing professional development of accounting and finance professionals. This event provides a focused opportunity to explore leadership capabilities alongside professional networking and knowledge development. Attendees can benefit from engaging with other professionals who share similar career challenges and ambitions. Conversations with peers can provide different perspectives on leadership, workplace communication and professional development. For professionals working in accounting, finance or related business functions, attending a specialist event can also help connect leadership development with real industry challenges. Participants may be able to reflect on how leadership skills apply to their current role and identify areas they want to develop further. The event can therefore serve as more than a traditional learning opportunity. It can encourage participants to consider their broader professional identity and the ways they can create greater value within their organisations. Networking and Professional Connections in Milton Keynes Networking is another important feature of professional events. The opportunity to meet other finance professionals, accountants and business leaders can help attendees expand their professional connections. The Milton Keynes location offers a convenient setting for a business-focused event. Network Rail – The Quadrant is situated on Elder Gate in Milton Keynes and provides a professional venue for learning and discussion. The venue is also located close to Milton Keynes Central, making it accessible for attendees travelling from different parts of the United Kingdom. Professional networking can be especially valuable for people who are developing their careers or moving into leadership roles. Conversations with peers may introduce new ideas, professional perspectives and potential opportunities for future collaboration. Networking also allows attendees to compare experiences. Leadership challenges can vary between organisations, but many professionals face common issues involving communication, influence, confidence and stakeholder relationships. Who Should Attend the Full Steam Ahead Event? The event is particularly suitable for finance professionals, accountants, CIMA members, business leaders and emerging managers. It may also be relevant to professionals who are preparing to move into a leadership position or who want to become more effective in their current role. Professionals early in their careers can benefit from learning how leadership capabilities support long-term development. Those already managing teams or projects may find value in exploring new approaches to influence and communication. The event can also be useful for professionals who work closely with senior decision-makers. Developing the ability to communicate with confidence and influence strategic discussions can support greater visibility and professional impact. Attendees do not need to be senior executives to benefit from leadership development. Leadership behaviours can be applied at every career stage, from contributing to team projects to managing complex stakeholder relationships. Building Confidence Beyond Technical Expertise Technical knowledge remains an essential part of a successful finance career. However, professional success increasingly depends on how effectively individuals apply and communicate that knowledge. A professional who can analyse information but cannot communicate recommendations clearly may struggle to influence important decisions. Similarly, a technically strong team member may need additional leadership skills before taking responsibility for projects or teams. This is why leadership development can complement technical education. The Full Steam Ahead event provides an opportunity for professionals to focus on the human and interpersonal aspects of professional performance. Building confidence can help attendees participate more actively in meetings, communicate recommendations more effectively and approach challenging professional conversations with greater clarity. Key Benefits of Attending the Event Participants attending this leadership and influence event can expect to gain valuable professional insights. The event is structured around practical professional development rather than purely theoretical learning. Key benefits include: Improved understanding of leadership behaviours and professional influence Greater confidence when communicating ideas and recommendations Practical approaches to building workplace credibility Opportunities to connect with finance and business professionals Ideas for applying leadership development to career progression These benefits can support professionals across a range of finance and business roles. The skills developed through leadership and influence training can be applied in team management, project delivery, client communication and strategic decision-making. The Importance of Continuous Professional Development Professional development is an ongoing process. The business environment continues to change, and finance professionals must continually adapt to new expectations, technologies and organisational challenges. Continuous learning allows professionals to maintain their technical knowledge while also developing broader capabilities. Leadership, communication and influence are increasingly important as finance professionals take on more strategic responsibilities. Events such as Full Steam Ahead can provide a structured opportunity to pause, reflect and focus on professional growth. Attendees can use the experience to consider their current strengths and identify areas for further development. For organisations, supporting employees in professional development can also contribute to stronger leadership pipelines. Professionals who develop confidence and influence skills may be better prepared to take on future responsibilities. Why This Event Is Relevant for Emerging Leaders Emerging leaders often face a transition from being responsible primarily for their own work to influencing the work of others. This transition requires new skills. A professional may need to delegate tasks, manage different personalities, explain decisions and communicate priorities. These responsibilities require both leadership awareness and interpersonal influence. The Full Steam Ahead event offers a relevant development opportunity for professionals at this stage of their careers. By exploring leadership and influence, participants can begin to develop a more deliberate approach to their professional presence. The lessons from such an event can be applied immediately. Attendees may return to their organisations with new ideas about how to communicate, collaborate and contribute to decision-making. Full Steam Ahead: Leadership & Influence on the Right Track is an upcoming AICPA & CIMA professional development event taking place on 23 July 2026 at Network Rail – The Quadrant in Milton Keynes. The event is designed to help professionals strengthen leadership capabilities, improve workplace influence and develop greater confidence in professional communication. For finance professionals and business leaders, the event offers an opportunity to focus on skills that complement technical expertise. In an increasingly collaborative and strategic business environment, the ability to influence, communicate and lead effectively can make a significant difference to professional performance. With its focus on leadership development, influence and professional growth, the event is well suited to accountants, finance professionals, emerging managers and business leaders looking to enhance their impact. Attendees can gain practical insights, connect with peers and explore new ways to contribute more effectively within their organisations.

The National Education Leadership Forum in Birmingham is the premier annual gathering for decision-makers across the UK’s primary, secondary, and higher education sectors. In 2026, the focus has shifted toward "The Adaptive Curriculum," exploring how educational institutions can evolve to meet the demands of an AI-driven workforce. This forum provides the space for headteachers, university deans, and policy experts to share blueprints for institutional success. The forum features a series of "Leadership Roundtables" that tackle the most pressing issues: student mental health, teacher retention, and the integration of immersive technology in the classroom. Keynote speakers include representatives from the Department for Education and leading educational psychologists. The sessions are designed to be interactive, encouraging delegates to debate the future of assessment and the role of vocational training in the 21st century. Networking is facilitated through "Common Ground" lounges, where leaders from similar institutions can discuss shared challenges in a confidential setting. Furthermore, the forum hosts an "EdTech Discovery Zone," showcasing the latest in VR learning and adaptive testing platforms. For those tasked with steering educational institutions through a period of rapid change, this forum offers the clarity, community, and inspiration needed to lead with confidence.

Birmingham’s reputation as a financial powerhouse is the backdrop for the National FinTech Growth & Networking Forum. This event is a high-octane gathering of the UK’s most influential banking executives, blockchain developers, and fintech entrepreneurs. As traditional finance and decentralized technologies continue to merge in 2026, this forum acts as the primary site for navigating regulatory shifts and technological breakthroughs. The forum's primary goal is to foster a robust ecosystem for fintech scaling. Panels will dive deep into the implementation of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and the role of AI in fraud prevention and personalized banking. One of the most anticipated segments is the "Regulatory Sandbox Live," where experts from the FCA provide direct feedback on emerging business models. The networking component is enhanced by an AI-powered matchmaking app that connects attendees based on their specific goals—whether it's Series B funding, technical recruitment, or institutional partnerships. Evening social events provide a relaxed atmosphere for high-level deal-making. This forum is essential for anyone looking to stay at the forefront of the UK's financial evolution, offering a rare opportunity to engage with both the disruptors and the established giants of the industry.

The National Sustainable Infrastructure Forum arrives in Birmingham during a pivotal year for the UK's Net Zero strategy. Hosted at the NEC, this event brings together the architects of our future cities, transport networks, and energy grids. The forum is designed to address the urgent need for resilient, low-carbon infrastructure that supports both economic growth and environmental stewardship. The 2026 agenda features a heavy focus on "The Circular Economy in Construction." Speakers from major national projects, including high-speed rail and renewable energy hubs, will share insights into decarbonizing supply chains. This is not just a series of lectures; it is a collaborative space where civil engineers, urban planners, and environmental consultants work through the logistical challenges of sustainable development. Attendees will benefit from an expansive exhibition floor featuring the latest in green building materials and smart city sensors. The "Green Finance" track is a particular highlight, connecting project leads with investors focused on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria. Networking sessions are categorized by sector—Energy, Transport, and Residential—allowing for targeted conversations and the formation of multi-disciplinary consortia. By attending, you join a national movement dedicated to building a smarter, cleaner Britain.

The National Digital Health Networking Forum is the UK's cornerstone event for the integration of technology within the healthcare sector. As we navigate the complexities of 2026, this forum serves as a critical junction for NHS leaders, private health tech innovators, and clinical researchers to converge. The day is meticulously structured to move beyond theoretical discussions, focusing instead on the practical implementation of AI-driven diagnostics and interoperable data systems across national trusts. Participants will engage in high-impact keynote sessions led by the pioneers of the "Paperless NHS" initiative and regional digital transformation leads. The morning session explores the successful rollout of nationwide electronic patient record (EPR) systems, highlighting case studies from the West Midlands. Following a networking lunch, the forum transitions into a series of "Solution Labs," where attendees can interact with the latest wearable tech and remote monitoring platforms. Networking is at the heart of this event. With dedicated zones for "Startup Meets Scaleup" and "Clinical-Tech Partnerships," the forum ensures that every attendee leaves with a refreshed contact list and actionable strategies. We prioritize the human element of digital change, discussing workforce digital literacy and the ethics of patient data sovereignty. Whether you are looking to benchmark your trust’s digital maturity or seeking the next breakthrough partnership, this forum provides the environment to make it happen.

The U21 Global Leaders’ Networking Summit is an exclusive, high-impact event that brings together the strategic decision-makers of the Universitas 21 network. Held at the historic and luxurious Grand Hotel in the heart of Birmingham’s business district, this summit is the premier networking event for Vice-Chancellors, Presidents, and International Directors. The 2026 theme, "Knowledge Diplomacy in a Fragmented World," explores how universities can remain bridges for international cooperation during times of geopolitical tension. This event is designed for high-level dialogue and the formation of strategic alliances. The schedule is intentionally less formal than a research conference, prioritizing curated networking lunches, "Fireside Chats" with former heads of state, and breakout sessions focused on "The Future of International Mobility." Leaders will discuss the logistics of global student exchanges, the development of dual-degree programs between continents, and the impact of national funding policies on international research. A highlight of the 2026 summit is the "Global Impact Showcase," where leaders present the societal changes sparked by U21 collaborations—ranging from sustainability initiatives in South Africa to technological breakthroughs in Scandinavia. The evening program includes a formal reception in the hotel’s ornate ballroom, providing a sophisticated atmosphere for finalizing partnership agreements and strengthening the ties that bind the 29 member institutions. For the University of Birmingham, hosting this summit is a testament to its role as a global civic university and its commitment to fostering an interconnected world.

The Universitas 21 Global Education Innovation Symposium 2026 is a high-level meeting of educational strategists, vice-provosts of learning, and digital pedagogists. The 2026 symposium in Birmingham addresses the most pressing shift in higher education: "The AI-Integrated Campus: From Policy to Practice." This event is a deep dive into how research-intensive universities are evolving their teaching methods to incorporate generative artificial intelligence while maintaining academic integrity and the value of human-led inquiry. The symposium is structured as a series of "Strategy Sprints"—fast-paced, collaborative sessions where leaders from institutions like the National University of Singapore and the University of California, Davis, share their frameworks for digital transformation. Unlike a standard lecture-based conference, this event emphasizes co-creation. Participants will work together to draft a "U21 Manifesto for AI in Education," a document intended to guide member universities in creating ethical, future-proof curricula. Beyond the technological focus, the event also explores "The Evolving Student Persona." Discussions will center on how the university ecosystem must adapt to the needs of Gen Alpha, focusing on mental health, transdisciplinary learning, and global citizenship. The venue, the Bramall Music Building, provides a state-of-the-art acoustic environment for the plenary sessions, ensuring that every keynote is heard with crystal clarity. This symposium is an essential gathering for anyone involved in the strategic direction of higher education, offering a rare look at the inner workings of the world’s leading educational innovators.

The U21 Early Career Summer Research Conference is a flagship event dedicated to empowering the next generation of academic leaders. This peer-led conference is designed specifically for PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers from the 29 member universities of the Universitas 21 network. Set against the historic backdrop of the Aston Webb Building at the University of Birmingham, the 2026 conference focuses on "Interdisciplinary Solutions for Global Resilience." Unlike traditional academic gatherings, this event prioritizes professional development and mentorship alongside scientific presentation. The first day is dedicated to intensive "Skills Labs," where participants can learn advanced techniques in grant writing, public engagement, and data visualization from seasoned experts. The subsequent days feature multi-track sessions where researchers present their findings to a supportive, international audience. This environment is intentionally crafted to be "introductory and friendly," reducing the intimidation factor often associated with major international conferences while maintaining the highest standards of academic rigor. The 2026 program includes a unique "Speed-Networking" session where early career researchers (ECRs) are paired with senior faculty mentors from across the globe, including representatives from the University of Hong Kong and the University of Edinburgh. This provides a rare opportunity for ECRs to discuss career trajectories and potential international fellowships in an informal setting. The conference concludes with a formal dinner in the Great Hall, celebrating the collaborative spirit of the U21 network and the diverse research that will shape the future of society, environment, and technology.

The Universitas 21 (U21) Health Research Exchange (HREx) Symposium is a premier gathering of medical researchers, healthcare professionals, and academic leaders from the world’s most prestigious research-intensive universities. Hosted at the University of Birmingham’s iconic city-center hub, "The Exchange," this three-day symposium focuses on the critical theme of "Health Policymaking and Global Equity." As the world continues to navigate the complexities of post-pandemic healthcare systems, this event serves as a vital platform for cross-border collaboration and the sharing of evidence-based research that directly influences legislative action. The 2026 symposium is particularly significant as it brings together high-level policymakers from both the United Kingdom and the United States. Keynote sessions will feature prominent figures, including members of the Maryland House of Delegates and leading UK health advisors, providing a unique opportunity for researchers to see how their data translates into real-world policy. The program is designed to bridge the gap between bench-side research and bedside application, ensuring that scientific breakthroughs are accessible and equitable on a global scale. Attendees will engage in a series of seminar sessions, oral presentations, and interactive workshops. These sessions are curated to foster the "Community of Practice" (CoP) model, encouraging long-term relationships between institutions such as the University of Melbourne, Fudan University, and the University of Amsterdam. Topics for 2026 include the ethics of AI in health diagnostics, sustainable healthcare infrastructure in developing nations, and the role of regional politics in public health funding. This event is not just a conference but a catalyst for international research partnerships that will define the next decade of medical science.

The NASUWT Health and Safety Representative (Stage 1) course is a vital training initiative designed to empower teachers to take control of their working environment. Held at the NASUWT Head Office training facilities near Birmingham, this course is the first step for members who wish to become certified Health and Safety Reps. In an era where teacher burnout and workplace stress are at an all-time high, the role of the H&S Rep is essential in identifying and mitigating risks before they lead to long-term illness or injury. Throughout the session, participants will learn about the "Health and Safety at Work Act" and how it specifically applies to schools and colleges. The training covers practical skills such as conducting workplace inspections, investigating accidents, and representing members in consultations with management regarding safety protocols. A significant portion of the day is dedicated to mental health and wellbeing, focusing on how to use health and safety legislation to tackle excessive workload and work-related stress. This is not just about physical hazards like fire safety or asbestos; it is about the holistic wellbeing of the teaching workforce. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of their legal rights to information and time off for training, as well as the confidence to challenge unsafe practices in their schools.

The NASUWT LGBTI+ Teachers’ Consultation Conference is a landmark event held in the heart of Birmingham, dedicated to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by LGBTI+ educators in the modern classroom. As social dynamics evolve, the union remains committed to ensuring that every teacher can work in an environment free from discrimination and prejudice. This conference acts as a vital platform for members to voice their concerns directly to the union’s national leadership, helping to shape future policy and campaigning priorities. The day is structured around a series of keynote speeches from equality experts and breakout consultation sessions. Participants will discuss a range of pressing topics, including the implementation of inclusive curricula, tackling homophobic and transphobic bullying in schools, and the specific employment protections afforded to LGBTI+ staff. Beyond the formal agenda, the conference provides a safe and supportive space for networking, allowing teachers from across the UK to share best practices and personal experiences. It is an empowering day that blends activism with professional development, ensuring that the voice of the LGBTI+ teaching community is heard loud and clear. Participants will also receive updates on the latest legal developments regarding equality legislation and how these apply specifically to the education sector in England and Wales.