Playful Learning Conference 2026
Playful Learning is pitched at the intersection of learning and play for adults. Playful in approach and outlook, yet underpinned by robust research and working practices, we provide a space where teachers, researchers and students can play, learn and think together. A space to meet other playful people and be inspired by talks, workshops, activities and events. In its new home on the South Coast of England in Brighton, we have spaces that open the programme up to both indoor and outdoor activities, and evening activities that continue the playful learning and conversations after the formal programme ends.

The next Playful Learning Conference will take place on 1st – 3rd July 2026
at the University of Sussex in Brighton
Who is Playful Learning for?
Higher and Further Education teachers, researchers, trainers and students; library, museum and local government education officers; workplace trainers; educational designers; learning technologists; in fact anyone involved in adult learning who has an interest in engaging people through play.
Our conference is shaped through our Playful Conference Design Principles.
We also have a Playful Learning Conference Code of Conduct, please take a look before taking part in the Conference.
Timeline 2026
🌲 Call for sessions – now closed
🌳 Deadline for session proposals – Monday 2nd February 2026
🦉 Notification of acceptance to authors: Early March 2026
🌳 Registration open to all (presenters and non-presenters): 11th March 2026
The conference is expected to sell-out quickly (places limited to 120 – first-come-first-served)
🦌 Publication of conference timetable: May 2026
🌳 Booking deadline for presenters: June 2026
🌲 Conference 1st – 3rd July 2026
