Next Generation Assessment Conference 2027

12 March 2027 08:45 – 17:00

An inspiring one day conference exploring how we can broaden assessment in schools to offer a variety of pathways that allow every young person to thrive.

Following the success of the 2026 Next Generation Assessment Conference, the 2027 event will take a closer look at the ways in which different assessment pathways allow young people to demonstrate their strengths, experience success and thrive in education and beyond. Sessions will focus on different evidence-informed assessment approaches and qualifications, a broad range of methods of assessment, and a crucial reminder of why challenging the traditional assessment norms is important for different groups of students.

The event will include insights from across the sector, including a government perspective, evidence from research and classroom practice, inclusive approaches and insight from students about the impact of utilising different approaches to assessment.

Please note: Tickets are limited to two tickets per organisation, to ensure that we offer as many organisations the opportunity to attend as possible. Tickets are £65, including VAT and Booking Fees, and includes lunch and refreshments.

Next Generation Assessment Conference Overview 2026

Pathways to Success for All - conference agenda (draft)

8.45 - 9.15 Arrival and refreshments

9.15 - 10.10 Welcome and keynotes- Exploring the sector as it currently is, and what is on the horizon (12-15 mins each + Q&A) ● Vanessa Ward (Chief Executive- Chief Inspector, ISI) - Bringing the experience from the independent sector in terms of broadening measures for success and not labelling children ● Jonny Uttley - Bringing in the marginalised communities angle and discussing the attainment over wellbeing agenda, and accountability agenda, speaking on what needs to change.

10.10 - 11.00 Research review launch ● Dr Laura Kerslake to present the research reviews ● Implementing effective practice in schools ○ Halui Angus ○ Dr Jim Rogers ○ Henry Ward

11.00 - 11.30 Coffee Break 11.30 - 12.00: Sponsor slot (2x 10 minute discussion + 2x5 minute Q&A)- Exam Boards?

12.00 - 12.40 Panel Session: Pathways to Success ● V-Level qualifi cations - OCR Myles McGinley? John Laramy? ● Edge - vocational GCSEs / Compass Curriculum ● KS3 Alliance Assessment Dame Lesley Powell, North East Learning Trust ● Apprenticeships and vocational education - Ndidi Okezie CEO, Business in the Community ● Transitions from primary to secondary, pathways for work - Jed Cinnamon White Working Class Commission ● + Chair

12.40 - 12.55 Young people’s experience of T Level assessment for the world of work ● Clara Kerslake ● Bernice Kimber ● Scope for additional YP’s from EDGE

12.55 - 13.15 Georgia Gould Minister of School Standards - response to young people and general remarks to conclude the morning - TBC to her commitments but has the date in her diary.

13.15 - 14.00 Lunch 14.00 - 14.30: Sponsors (2x 10 minute discussion + 2x5 minute Q&A)- Products/AI for Assessment 14:30 - 15:15: Peter Hyman in conversation with Professor Bill Lucas

15.15 - 16:00 Research slam (x6) ● Halui Angus ● Henry Ward ● HMC slot ● HMC slot ● HMC slot ● HMC slot 16:00 - 16:30 - Engagement Piece leading into Closing Remarks- “What is your greatest hope for the future?” - Title TBC - Postcards for attendees to share feedback on something that they feel positive about for the future of learning and assessment. They will share with the person next to them, and then invite some attendees to share what they have written to the room.

16.30 - 17.00 Networking and afternoon refreshments

17.00 Conference close