Annual conference programme details released

QAA has released details of the programme for QAA Connect 2026, our annual conference which will be held at the University of Bath on 9 July.

The conference will focus on shaping the future of quality by connecting colleagues and strengthening practice. It will include sessions based around the themes of navigating policy, regulation and sector change, transforming quality processes and decision-making, futureproofing assessment and academic integrity, strengthening partnership oversight and collaborative provision, and curriculum redesign for future-ready learning, as well as a series of interactive workshops designed to create space for deeper discussion, shared problem-solving and the hands-on exploration of current quality challenges facing the sector.

In addition to QAA's array of resident experts, our confirmed speakers are so far scheduled to include Dr Kate Wicklow (Director of Policy & Strategy, GuildHE), Annie Bell (Associate Director Education at Public First), Richard Maconachie (Director of Institutional Performance, Scottish Funding Council), Professor Liz Cleaver (Cleaver Consulting Ltd), Dr Phil Berry (Director of Academic Quality, King's College London), Professor Sarah Williams (Pro Vice-Chancellor, External Collaborations, Buckinghamshire New University), Gianina Harvey-Brewin (Dean of Continuing Education, University of Roehampton), Professor Huw Morris (Institute of Education, UCL), Professor Beverley Hawkins (Dean for Taught Students, University of Exeter), Dr Richard Puttock (Head of Business Intelligence & Data Analytics, University of Leeds), and Gareth Smith (Chief of Strategy & Student Life, University Academy 92).

The conference will also of course feature opportunities for sector networking and a social event in the evening. Registration is free for QAA Members. Accommodation can be booked on campus via the university.

QAA's Head of UK & International Membership Delivery Steph Tindall said: "This is our first major in-person annual conference since the pandemic, and we have designed it to be a day of open and inclusive discussion, for connecting, networking, and sharing best practice and considering common challenges. We very much look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be a packed programme of dynamic debate and lively learning – on what we trust will be a beautifully sunny summer's day in Bath this July!"