Events by Association for Learning Technology

Celebrating the Elegance of the Sweet PeaThe National Sweet Pea Society Show 2026 brings one of the United Kingdom's most cherished floral traditions to Huddersfield. Set within the vibrant surroundings of the Greenhead Park Exhibition Pavilion, this prestigious annual event gathers passionate growers, floral artists, and gardening enthusiasts from across Yorkshire and beyond. Scheduled for Saturday, 8th August 2026, the exhibition offers a magnificent celebration of color, fragrance, and horticultural mastery. Organised by The National Sweet Pea Society—a historic charity established to promote the cultivation and appreciation of Lathyrus species—this gathering stands as a landmark occasion on the summer floral calendar. Competitive Exhibition Classes and Floral DisplaysAt the heart of the event is a vast competitive exhibition showcasing dozens of open and amateur classes. Master growers display meticulously trained stems, presenting an exquisite spectrum of colors ranging from soft pastels to intense, velvety dark tones. Judges assess the entries based on stem length, bloom size, freshness, uniformity, and fragrance. Visitors can walk through rows of spectacular floral benches featuring both classic Spencer varieties and historic heirloom selections. The event also features creative floral arrangement competitions, where local artists craft imaginative displays that demonstrate the versatility of sweet peas in contemporary floristry. Expert Cultivation Workshops and Growing DemonstrationsThroughout the day, the venue hosts structured educational sessions delivered by seasoned members of the society. Attendees can participate in live practical demonstrations covering essential aspects of successful sweet pea cultivation. Seminar topics include autumn versus spring seed sowing, soil preparation techniques, pest management, and the famous cordon training method used to produce show-quality long stems. Whether you are a novice gardener aiming to produce sweet peas for your kitchen table or an experienced competitor refining your show routine, these interactive workshops provide actionable knowledge tailored to northern growing conditions. Artisan Marketplace and Specialist Plant SalesIn addition to the competitive exhibition, the showground features an artisan marketplace packed with specialized gardening supplies, handcrafted goods, and exclusive botanical products. Leading nurseries and sweet pea seed specialists present curated seed selections, young plants, and propagation tools designed to assist home gardeners. Visitors have a unique opportunity to purchase rare seed strains and newly introduced hybrids that are rarely available in general garden centers. Local food producers and craft artisans add to the atmosphere, offering refreshments, baked goods, and garden ornamentations throughout the day. Interactive Gardening Advice and Community EngagementThe National Sweet Pea Society prides itself on creating a welcoming, informative environment for plant lovers of all ages and skill levels. A dedicated "Ask the Experts" advice desk will operate continuously during show hours, allowing guests to bring their growing queries, soil concerns, or disease diagnostics directly to master horticulturists. The exhibition also features interactive children's seed-potting activities, designed to inspire the next generation of gardeners and foster an appreciation for plant life, biodiversity, and sustainable horticulture. Heritage, Hybridization, and Conservation InitiativesBeyond the immediate sensory appeal, the show highlights ongoing national efforts in botanical conservation and plant breeding. Displays present the rich history of Lathyrus odoratus, tracing its journey from Sicilian monastery origins to the famous breeding work of British horticulturists. Society members will share insights into current plant trials, climate-resilient breeding programs, and methods for preserving historical cultivars. Attending the show directly supports the society's ongoing educational outreach and scientific research initiatives across the United Kingdom.

The Great Fete is an upcoming two-day music festival scheduled for Saturday 8 August and Sunday 9 August 2026 at Hatfield Park in Hertfordshire. The event is designed as a major summer festival combining live music, electronic sounds, dance music, rock, Britpop and UK Garage in a large outdoor setting. The festival offers an extensive programme for music lovers seeking a full weekend experience. With a diverse line-up featuring well-known performers and DJs, The Great Fete aims to bring together different generations and audiences through a broad selection of popular music styles. The festival is positioned as a new festival for Hertfordshire and is scheduled to take place at the historic Hatfield Park venue. A Diverse Musical Line-Up One of the key strengths of The Great Fete is its wide-ranging musical programme. The event features artists associated with electronic music, dance, rock, Britpop, house and UK Garage. This genre diversity gives the festival a broad appeal and enables visitors to experience different sounds throughout the weekend. The line-up includes Dizzee Rascal, SIGMA, Faithless, Ocean Colour Scene, Feeder, Majestic, Inner City, DJ Luck & MC Neat, Graeme Park, Derrick Carter, Oxide & Neutrino, Kenny Dope, DJ Spoony, Lisa Maffia, Kele Le Roc and Romeo, among other performers. The combination of live acts and DJs creates a varied programme that can appeal to both concert audiences and dance music fans. A Festival Designed for Multiple Music Communities The Great Fete is structured around a mixture of music styles rather than one single genre. This creates an opportunity for different communities of music fans to attend the same event. Electronic music lovers can enjoy DJ performances and dance-focused sets, while fans of rock and Britpop can experience live performances from established acts. The inclusion of UK Garage and house music further expands the festival's appeal. These genres have strong fan communities across the United Kingdom, making the event relevant to audiences who enjoy both classic and contemporary dance music. This broad musical identity also makes The Great Fete suitable for groups of friends with different preferences. Visitors can enjoy their favourite performers while discovering new acts and genres throughout the festival. Hatfield Park Provides a Distinctive Outdoor Setting The festival takes place at Hatfield Park in Hatfield, Hertfordshire. The venue provides a large outdoor environment suitable for a summer music festival and allows The Great Fete to create an expansive event atmosphere. Outdoor festivals offer visitors more than a standard indoor concert experience. The open-air setting allows attendees to spend an entire day moving between performances, socialising with friends and enjoying the wider festival environment. The location also contributes to the event's identity as a destination festival. Visitors can travel to Hertfordshire for a full weekend of live music, entertainment and social activities. The setting is particularly suitable for a summer event that combines large-scale performances with a relaxed outdoor atmosphere. Two Days of Live Music and Entertainment The Great Fete runs across two days, with the Saturday programme scheduled from 12:00 to 22:30 and the Sunday programme from 12:00 to 22:00. This provides attendees with a substantial amount of live entertainment across the weekend. A two-day format gives the festival enough time to present a varied line-up without limiting the event to a single day. Visitors can plan their schedules around their preferred artists and enjoy performances throughout the afternoon and evening. The extended format also encourages a stronger festival atmosphere. Instead of attending for only a few hours, visitors can experience the event as a complete weekend entertainment programme. Headline Entertainment for a Broad Audience The presence of major artists gives The Great Fete strong appeal among mainstream music audiences. Dizzee Rascal brings a distinctive UK rap and grime influence, while SIGMA adds a strong electronic and drum-and-bass presence. Faithless represents influential electronic music, and Ocean Colour Scene and Feeder add live rock and alternative sounds to the programme. The combination of these performers helps the festival reach audiences with different musical backgrounds. The event does not rely on one type of performer or one style of music. Instead, it presents a broad programme designed to provide variety throughout the weekend. For visitors, this means that the festival can offer multiple highlights across the two-day schedule. The line-up may attract fans who attend specifically for one artist as well as those who want to explore the complete programme. VIP and VVIP Festival Experiences The Great Fete also offers enhanced festival experiences for visitors seeking additional comfort and access. VIP tickets include access to an additional bar and arena, improved toilet facilities, additional chill-out areas and furniture, along with a side-stage view. The event also lists a VVIP experience with additional features including food and bars, private parking, a separate entrance and selected stage access. The VVIP package also includes access to the VIP area and additional backstage privileges. Backstage VVIP access is strictly for attendees aged 18 and over. These options allow visitors to choose an experience that matches their preferences. Some attendees may prefer the standard festival environment, while others may value additional facilities and premium access. A Summer Festival for Music and Social Experiences The Great Fete is designed as a social event as well as a live music festival. Outdoor music events provide an opportunity for visitors to spend time with friends, meet other music fans and enjoy performances in a shared environment. The wide variety of genres makes the festival particularly suitable for groups. Friends can attend together while choosing different performances throughout the day. The presence of multiple styles also helps create a constantly changing atmosphere across the festival programme. Summer festivals are often valued for the combination of music, outdoor surroundings and social interaction. The Great Fete brings these elements together through its two-day format at Hatfield Park. Why The Great Fete May Appeal to Festival Visitors The event offers several features that make it attractive to UK festival audiences. Its broad musical line-up provides variety, while the outdoor venue creates a traditional summer festival atmosphere. The festival may appeal to people who enjoy: Large live music performances Electronic and dance music UK Garage and house music Rock and Britpop acts Premium VIP and VVIP festival experiences The presence of both live bands and DJs means the event can offer different types of entertainment throughout the weekend. This variety can make the festival appealing to visitors who enjoy changing between live concerts and DJ-led performances. A Strong Entertainment Event for Hertfordshire The Great Fete adds a significant new music event to the Hertfordshire festival calendar. Its location at Hatfield Park provides a suitable venue for a large-scale summer festival and allows the event to attract audiences from across the region and beyond. The festival's location may make it accessible to visitors from London, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas. Its diverse line-up provides a strong reason for audiences to travel to the event, particularly those interested in electronic music, dance, rock and British popular music. The event also contributes to the wider UK summer festival scene by combining established artists with a new festival concept. Planning a Visit to The Great Fete Visitors should check the latest official event information and ticket details before travelling. The event is a paid festival, and ticket availability, pricing and access arrangements may change as the event approaches. Those attending should also review the specific schedule for each day, as Saturday and Sunday have different finishing times. Visitors interested in VIP or VVIP packages should carefully check the benefits and age requirements before purchasing tickets. As with any large outdoor festival, advance planning can help visitors make the most of the event. Checking travel arrangements, ticket conditions and event updates before arrival can provide a smoother experience. The Great Fete is an upcoming two-day music festival taking place on 8 and 9 August 2026 at Hatfield Park in Hertfordshire. With a line-up spanning electronic music, dance, house, UK Garage, rock and Britpop, the event offers a broad entertainment experience for a wide range of music fans. Featuring artists such as Dizzee Rascal, SIGMA, Faithless, Ocean Colour Scene and Feeder, the festival combines live performances and DJ-led entertainment in an outdoor summer setting. VIP and VVIP options add further flexibility for visitors seeking enhanced facilities and premium access. With its diverse programme, two-day format and distinctive Hatfield Park setting, The Great Fete is positioned as a significant upcoming entertainment event for UK festival audiences.

The ALT Northern Summer Summit is the premier gathering for learning technology professionals in the North of England. This two-day conference in Leeds brings together a diverse community to celebrate the achievements of the past academic year and look forward to the challenges of the next. The theme for 2026 is "Sustainable Innovation," focusing on how we can build resilient digital systems that are environmentally conscious and socially responsible. Day one features a series of high-profile keynotes and panel discussions. We are honored to host international speakers who will provide a global perspective on educational trends. The afternoon sessions are dedicated to "Member Showcases," where ALT members present their own research and projects. This is a fantastic way to see the incredible work happening across the sector and to find potential collaborators for your next project. Day two is more informal, with a focus on community-led unconference sessions. Attendees can propose topics on the morning of the event, ensuring that the most current and pressing issues are addressed. This flexible format allows for deep dives into niche topics that might not fit into a traditional conference schedule. Whether it's the role of blockchain in micro-credentials or the use of gaming in the classroom, the unconference sessions are often the most memorable part of the summit. The social highlight of the event is the Summer Gala Dinner, held at a prestigious Leeds venue. This is a time to relax, celebrate, and recognize the contributions of our members with the regional ALT awards. With plenty of opportunities for networking, learning, and celebration, the Northern Summer Summit is the perfect way to wrap up the academic year. Join us in Leeds for two days of inspiration, connection, and forward-thinking dialogue.

As more institutions move toward hybrid and fully online models, the physical campus is being supplemented—and in some cases replaced—by digital environments. The Association for Learning Technology (ALT) is hosting a hands-on workshop in Leeds titled "Designing the Virtual Campus." This event is a deep dive into the UX (User Experience) and UI (User Interface) design of educational spaces. Participants will spend the day working in a high-tech "Design Studio" environment. The morning is dedicated to understanding the psychology of online learning. Why do students engage in some spaces and feel isolated in others? We will examine case studies of "Virtual Worlds" and 3D learning environments, looking at what works and what fails. You will learn how to apply architectural principles to digital space, focusing on navigation, "third spaces" for social interaction, and the seamless integration of synchronous and asynchronous tools. In the afternoon, the focus shifts to production. Using a variety of low-code and no-code platforms, attendees will prototype a "Virtual Hub" for a specific student cohort. Whether you are building a landing page for a postgraduate department or a complex VR classroom, our mentors will be on hand to provide technical guidance. This is not just about making things look good; it's about functional design that supports learning outcomes. The workshop is limited to 30 participants to ensure a high level of individual support. This small group setting fosters a collaborative atmosphere where you can share your own challenges and receive peer feedback. We will also provide a "Design Toolkit" to all attendees, containing templates, checklists, and resource links to help you continue your work after the workshop. If you are responsible for the digital "look and feel" of your institution, this workshop is a vital investment in your professional skills.

Focusing on the critical issue of the digital divide, the Association for Learning Technology (ALT) presents a specialized networking seminar in Leeds titled "Digital Inclusion: Bridging the Gap." This event is designed for those on the front lines of education who are struggling to ensure that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has equal access to digital learning opportunities. The afternoon will start with a series of lightning talks. These five-minute presentations from various institutions across Yorkshire will highlight successful projects that have improved accessibility and participation. From providing low-cost hardware to students in rural areas to designing course materials for neurodivergent learners, these talks offer a wealth of "stolen ideas" that you can bring back to your own organization. Following the lightning talks, the event shifts into a structured networking format. We use a "World Cafe" style setup where attendees rotate through different tables, each focused on a specific sub-topic such as "Mobile-First Design," "Zero-Data Learning," and "Assistive Technologies." This ensures that you meet a diverse range of colleagues and contribute to multiple conversations throughout the session. It is a highly interactive format that moves away from the "sage on the stage" model and empowers every attendee to be an expert. The venue, The Tetley, provides a unique and inspiring backdrop for these discussions. As a center for contemporary art and learning, it reflects the creative thinking required to solve systemic issues like digital exclusion. The event will conclude with a social hour, featuring local Leeds refreshments, allowing for deeper one-on-one connections. If you believe that technology should be a tool for equity rather than a barrier, this is an essential event for your 2026 calendar.

The Association for Learning Technology invites you to an intensive one-day conference: The Future of AI in Northern Education. Hosted at the University of Leeds, this event is a deep dive into how Artificial Intelligence is specifically reshaping the educational landscape of Northern England. With the rise of large language models and predictive analytics, the role of the educator is evolving, and this conference aims to provide the roadmap for that evolution. The program is split into three core tracks: "Implementation and Infrastructure," "Ethics and Equity," and "Pedagogical Innovation." In the Infrastructure track, IT professionals and administrators will discuss the logistical challenges of deploying AI at scale, including security concerns and cost-benefit analyses. The Ethics and Equity track will tackle the "digital divide," ensuring that AI tools do not inadvertently disadvantage students from lower-socioeconomic backgrounds or those with specific learning needs. Finally, the Pedagogical Innovation track showcases real-world examples of AI-assisted grading, personalized learning paths, and virtual tutoring systems. A major highlight of the afternoon is the "AI Playground," an exhibition space where attendees can get hands-on experience with the latest software and hardware. Unlike a traditional trade show, the Playground is moderated by ALT experts who can provide unbiased critiques and advice on how these tools fit into an academic framework. This is a rare opportunity to test-drive expensive technology before committing institutional budgets. As the day winds down, we will host a "Northern Powerhouse" roundtable. This session brings together leaders from Leeds, Manchester, and Sheffield to discuss how regional partnerships can strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader in EdTech. By attending, you become part of a powerful network of educators and technologists dedicated to excellence. The insights gained here will be compiled into a post-conference white paper distributed to all ALT members, ensuring the conversations in Leeds have a lasting national impact.

The Association for Learning Technology (ALT) is proud to present the 2026 Digital Pedagogy Symposium in the heart of Leeds. This landmark event is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical pedagogical frameworks and the practical, day-to-day application of educational technology in higher and further education. As we navigate an era defined by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and immersive learning, this symposium serves as a vital touchpoint for professionals committed to student success. The day will begin with a provocative keynote address focusing on the "human-in-the-loop" philosophy, ensuring that as we adopt more automated systems, the core values of empathy and personal mentorship remain at the forefront of the student experience. Following the keynote, attendees can choose from a variety of breakout sessions. These sessions are curated to cover a broad spectrum of interests, from the technicalities of API integration in Learning Management Systems to the creative design of inclusive, accessible digital content. One of the unique features of the Leeds Chapter event is its focus on regional collaboration. Leeds has established itself as a major tech hub in the UK, and this event leverages that local expertise by bringing together university staff and local EdTech innovators. You will have the opportunity to participate in "Solution Sprints," where small groups work together to solve a specific digital learning challenge presented by a local institution. This hands-on approach ensures that you leave not just with notes, but with practical strategies you can implement immediately. Networking is a cornerstone of the ALT experience. Extended coffee breaks and a catered lunch are designed to foster organic conversations. Whether you are a veteran learning technologist or a faculty member just beginning to explore digital tools, the environment is inclusive and supportive. We will conclude the day with a plenary panel discussing the ethical implications of data privacy in the modern classroom, providing a somber yet necessary look at our responsibilities as digital citizens. This symposium isn't just a meeting; it's a catalyst for the next year of innovation in your professional practice.