The Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Conference is a flagship annual event that brings together practitioners, academics, and senior leaders from across the globe to share learning, challenge thinking and advance the equity agenda in higher education.
Each year, the conference explores a timely theme through a range of keynote sessions, panels, workshops, and poster presentations, creating a space for honest dialogue, practical insights, and collaborative action. Whether you are working on policy, pedagogy, leadership, or culture change, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with emerging thinking and innovative practice in EDI.
Event Information
Date: 25-26 March 2026
Location: Radisson Blu Hotel, Manchester Airport
This is a conference that anyone serious about matters of Inclusivity, Equity and Diversity, should attend. It really is a box of delights with something for everyone to take away".Dr Barbara Howard-Hunt, Senior Lecturer Inclusivity Hub, Birmingham City University
Conference outcomes
In addition to opportunities to hear from a range of interesting speakers and enhance personal networks, this conference offers:
- Critical reflection: Space to reflect and gain a deeper understanding of different frameworks (Equality Act, Athena Swan, PSED etc.) that shape institutional culture in higher education.
- Practice sharing: Whether it is for navigating contested or addressing contemporary challenges within higher education, delegates will have ample of opportunity to hear from others within and beyond HE.
- Skills building: A practical focus on developing expertise for embedding EDI across governance, curriculum, HR and student experience.
- Networking with likeminded professionals for mutual support and peer challenge that build resilience and trust.
We are committed to showcasing the diverse range of staff working in higher education, including student unions, and academic and professional services staff.
Who should attend?
Anyone tasked with developing initiatives which create a more equitable future for staff and students. This includes but is not restricted to EDI leads, APP/WP teams, teaching practitioners, including heads of departments, academic programme leaders and developers, lecturers, academic and support staff, and learning technologists.
Speakers
Panel Chair
Panellists
Professor Frances Corner OBE
Chair of the Maudsley Charity, board member of LAMDA, Creative UK and the All-Party Parliamentary University Group
Download Resource
EDI Conference 2026 Poster Programme
Download
Download Resource
EDI Programme - day one 25 March 2026
Download
Download Resource
EDI Programme - day two 26 March 2026
Download
Conference explores intersectionality as key to advancing equality
Advance HE's 2025 Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Conference tackles the complex dimensions of identity in challenging times.
This week I attended the #AdvanceHE #EDIConference2025 in Newcastle. Thank you @advancehe.bsky.social for organising such a thought-provoking & impactful event. #Equity #Equality #Diversity #Inclusion #Intersectionality #Decolonisation #HigherEducation #EssentialPraxisConsulting ... (1/7)
— Dr. Ramisha Rafique (@drramisharafique.bsky.social) 4 April 2025 at 10:36
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Had a great time presenting my poster at the #EDI @advancehe.bsky.social conference today in Newcastle! 🎉Huge thanks to the organizers for the badge and certificate—much appreciated! 🙌 #EDI2025 #AdvanceHE #Newcastle #Conference @lborouniversity.bsky.social
— Vittorio Cecconi (@cecconivittorio.bsky.social) 3 April 2025 at 23:20
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Accommodation
Please note that the conference fee dose not include accommodation, this will need to be booked separately via the venue or an alternative hotel.
Please find below some details on how and where to use the code if you’d like to book accommodation at the venue:
1. Go to Radisson Blu Manchester Airport - https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-manchester-airport
2. Select your relevant date and room occupancy.
3. Under “Selected Rates”, choose Promotional Code and enter the code ADHE2403.
Please note this code will expire 6 weeks prior to the event. From this time period onwards rooms will be sold at the best available rate, subject to availability.
Accessibility and On-Site Facilities
The Radisson Blu Hotel, Manchester Airport provides a fully accessible environment for all guests. The hotel features wheelchair-friendly event spaces and meeting rooms, accessible entrances, and step-free access throughout. It is directly connected to the airport terminals via a covered walkway, ensuring ease of movement for all attendees.
On-site parking is available, and accessible parking spaces can be arranged directly with the hotel. Alternatively, Manchester Airport offers a designated drop-off zone for Blue Badge holders. Delegates are encouraged to contact the hotel in advance to confirm specific requirements relating to wheelchair access or parking arrangements.
For further accessibility information or to make arrangements, please contact [email protected]
Resources and publications
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