Pen
Radical Connections: The Relational Twists and Turns of Early Childhood
Relational Pedagogies: Trusting the Child and Knowing Yourself
A Fully Funded East Midlands Early Years Stronger Practice Hub Conference
Join us for an inspiring day exploring how relationships, kindness, play and self-reflection can transform educational practice and strengthen outcomes for children.
Bringing together two of the most influential voices in relational education, Dave Whitaker and Greg Bottrill, this conference will explore how emotionally intelligent leadership, authentic relationships and child-centred pedagogy create the conditions for children and adults to thrive.
Dave Whitaker’s work on The Kindness Principle challenges us to place relationships at the heart of leadership, behaviour and inclusion. Greg Bottrill’s emerging work on Inner Child-Led Pedagogy invites educators to reconnect with their own sense of wonder and curiosity, ensuring children remain at the centre of educational experiences. Together, their perspectives offer a compelling vision for relational practice in today’s educational landscape.
Throughout the day, delegates will hear keynote presentations from both speakers, take part in opportunities for reflection and discussion, explore inspiring learning environments, and join a panel conversation examining what relational pedagogy looks like in practice.
This conference is for early years practitioners, teachers, school leaders, childminders, family support professionals and anyone passionate about creating environments where children feel safe, connected, valued and able to flourish.
What You’ll Explore
- Leading with kindness, empathy and connection
- Understanding the role of relationships in learning and development
- Inner Child-Led Pedagogy: the wonder child and the wounded child
- Creating emotionally safe environments for children and adults
- Moving beyond transactional approaches to education
- Practical reflections for strengthening relational practice in your own setting
Event Details
📅 Saturday 5 September 2026
🕙 10:00am – 4:00pm
📍 Pen Green Research Base, Corby
🎟️ Fully Funded – Free to Attend
✅ Advance Booking Required
Places are fully funded through the East Midlands Early Years Stronger Practice Hub, making this a free professional development opportunity for practitioners across the region.
We look forward to welcoming you for a day of inspiration, reflection and meaningful conversation about the future of relational education.