Tes SEND Show North 2026: Strengthening SEND Provision Across the North

Registration is now open for Tes SEND Show North 2026, the North of England’s largest dedicated event for special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Taking place on 13–14 March 2026 at Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Manchester, the two-day event brings together professionals from education, health and care to explore inclusive practice, effective SEND provision and improved outcomes for children and young people.

SEND continues to be a central focus across schools, trusts and local authorities. Rising numbers of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), increasing complexity of need, workforce capacity pressures and constrained budgets have placed SEND firmly at the heart of strategic planning and governance. Tes SEND Show North has been developed in response to these challenges, offering affordable, accessible professional development that reflects the realities professionals face every day.

Over the course of two days, delegates can access a broad programme of CPD-certified seminars delivered by experienced practitioners, researchers and SEND specialists. Sessions address the key elements of effective SEND practice, including inclusion, communication and interaction, sensory needs, emotional regulation, assessment, behaviour support and legal responsibilities. The focus throughout is on practical guidance, supporting professionals to translate learning into meaningful action within classrooms, specialist settings, services and multi-agency teams.

The event is particularly relevant for those working with learners who have diverse and complex needs, including communication and interaction differences, sensory processing needs, social, emotional and mental health challenges, and additional learning needs. With demand for specialist SEND expertise growing across mainstream and specialist provision, Tes SEND Show North provides affordable, evidence-informed training shaped by current research, professional experience and inclusive practice. Delegates can explore strategies to support learning, adapt environments, promote wellbeing and create settings where all learners are able to thrive.

Alongside the seminar programme, the event features exhibitor-led workshops and a large-scale exhibition showcasing more than 60 SEND suppliers. The exhibition offers hands-on access to specialist resources, assistive technologies, sensory equipment, therapeutic interventions and support services. For schools, trusts and local authorities, this provides a valuable opportunity to explore practical solutions, engage directly with providers and make informed decisions about SEND investment at a time when value for money is critical.

A key addition for 2026 whichs the SEND Leadership Summit, whichh runs within Tes SEND Show North on Friday 13 March. This one-day conference has been designed for senior leaders, headteachers, SENCOs, service leads and local authority teams who hold responsibility for SEND strategy and delivery. The Summit offers a smaller, more focused environment, creating space for discussion, reflection and shared problem-solving.

The Leadership Summit programme explores system leadership, inclusion, policy change and strategic decision-making. By bringing together national expertise and local insight, the Summit supports leaders involved in planning, commissioning and improving SEND provision across schools, trusts and local areas. The programme allows time for networking and collaborative problem-solving, supporting open discussion and shared learning among peers facing similar challenges.

Tes SEND Show North is highly relevant for those involved in governance and oversight, including governors and trustees. As accountability around SEND outcomes continues to increase, boards require a clear understanding of statutory duties, provision models and inclusive practice. The event offers context, clarity and professional insight to support informed decision-making at both operational and strategic levels, helping leaders fulfil their responsibilities with confidence.

Affordability remains one of the defining strengths of Tes SEND Show North. By keeping ticket prices low and offering group booking options, the event enables schools and services to prioritise staff development without adding pressure to already stretched budgets. This approach supports wider attendance across teams and encourages shared understanding and consistency in SEND practice.

Hosted at Emirates Old Trafford, the venue provides excellent transport links and accessible facilities, making the event easy to attend for professionals across the North of England. The scale and layout of the venue support a wide-ranging programme while maintaining a professional, welcoming environment for delegates.

Tes SEND Show North 2026 offers two days of learning, collaboration and practical support for professionals committed to strengthening SEND provision. By bringing together expertise from across education, health and care, the event supports confident practice, informed leadership and improved outcomes for children and young people with SEND.

It brings the SEND community together to share knowledge, insight and practical solutions.