Children in Wales’s Annual Conference this year will focus on the importance of the Early Years and Childcare. International research tells us that the experiences and influences of the early years and the childcare chosen sets the template for the child’s future, including educational achievement, health and wellbeing and future job opportunities.

We are drawing together a range of internationally renowned speakers to examine the key issues for young children and their families living in Wales in 2015, set against the backdrop of the Welsh Government’s Building a Brighter Future: Early Years and Childcare Plan.

Sian Wyn Siencyn, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Communities

The University of Wales: Trinity Saint David will chair the conference and confirmed speakers include: 

– Lesley Griffiths AM & Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty who will set the scene in terms of the aspirations for children in Wales

– Prof Jane Barlow, Professor of Public Health in the Early Years, Warwick Medical School will focus on Early Years, Wellbeing and Mental Health

– Prof Karen Graham, Professor of Early Childhood Studies, Glyndwr University will highlight the importance of a skilled and competent early years and childcare workforce

– Dr Gwenllian Lansdown Davies, Chief Executive, Mudiad Meithrin will consider childcare in Wales and the importance of the Welsh Language

– Prof Mathias Urban, Professor of Early Childhood, Director, Early Childhood Research Centre, University of Roehampton will consider the messages from Early Childhood Education and Care and the European Quality Frameworks

– Professor Iram Siraj, Professor of Early Childhood Education, Institute of Education, University of London will present on her evaluation of the Foundation Phase across Wales, and research evidence in relation to closing the attainment gap

– Charlotte Drury, Chair, Attachment Network Wales will present on the importance of Attachment in the early years

£80 for members of Children in Wales; £100 for non-members

Book online via the Children in Wales website.

Exhibition Opportunities

Exhibition opportunities will be available at the conference at a cost of £50 (in addition to the delegate fee). If you are interested in showcasing the work of your organisation, then please send an email to membership@childreninwales.org.uk