Keynote Speakers

Our Keynote Speakers sit at the heart of the Early Years Conference 2026, bringing together inspiration, challenge, and deep professional insight. This year’s programme features voices who are shaping contemporary thinking in early childhood education, leaders who champion curiosity, creativity, play, and purposeful learning in meaningful and practical ways. Across the conference, our keynote sessions will invite delegates to reflect on their practice, reconnect with the joy of Early Years education, and explore how research, imagination, and lived experience can transform learning environments for young children.

Leading our keynote programme is Greg Botterill, whose thought-provoking and energetic sessions challenge educators to embrace adventure, wonder, and play as essential foundations for learning. Alongside him, our keynote speakers bring diverse global perspectives, rich classroom experience, and a shared commitment to placing children, relationships, and creativity at the centre of Early Years practice. Together, they will set the tone for two days of reflection, conversation, and professional renewal—leaving delegates inspired, energised, and equipped with ideas they can take back to their own settings.

Greg is the author of the bestselling ’Can I Go And Play Now?’, ‘School of the Magic of Children’ and ‘Love Letters To Play’. A passionate advocate of childhood and education done with children not to them, he is also the creator of Drawing Club, The Message Centre, Play Projects and Adventure Island. His work and thinking is deeply embedded in joy, adventure, marvel and play, four things that he believes are equally as important for adults.

Alice is an award-winning educator and leading voice in Early Years education, known for her energy, warmth and inspiring approach to teaching and learning. Creator of Adventures with Alice, she brings research to life through play, curiosity and creativity. Join us at the DCSL Early Years Conference for an unforgettable keynote that will inspire, challenge and energise your practice.

Kate is an experienced global early childhood educator, working as an advisor, author, leader, trainer, and campaigner. Her work worldwide, including the UK, has driven her deep belief that effective early learning happens by understanding each child individually—exploring their unique interests and learning styles, and partnering with their families. Her passion for early childhood is fueled by her outdoor childhood, professional encounters, family (children and grandchildren), and her Masters studies at Pen Green Research Base, UK.