Shaping the Future of Early Childhood Education
Where Research, Practice, Policy & Partnerships Unite
Connecting London, Abu Dhabi and participants worldwide through one shared global programme, the 2026 Bright Start Conference brings together educators, researchers, policymakers, philanthropies, innovators and practitioners to exchange ideas, inspire action and shape the future of early childhood education.
Shape the Global Conversation
Present • Connect • Publish • Influence
Whether you are a researcher, educator, policymaker, foundation, NGO, educational leader, innovator, or practitioner, the Conference offers multiple opportunities to showcase your work, establish international collaborations, and contribute to shaping the future of early childhood education.
OECD High-Level Round Table and Action Dialogues
Help Shape the Global Call to Action
Led by the OECD Network of Foundations Working for Development (netFWD), the High-Level Roundtable and Action Dialogues will bring together governments, philanthropies, international organisations, researchers, and education leaders.
Share innovative research, work in progress, partnership models, policy initiatives, and practical solutions to help shape future collaboration, policy, and investment.
The Global Research & Innovation Poster Gallery
Share Your Work • Connect with Global Leaders • Get Published
Showcase your research, innovative practice, emerging ideas, and work in progress through dedicated Online Poster Sessions or in person within the Global Research & Innovation Poster Gallery in London or Abu Dhabi.
Accepted posters will be featured in the Official Conference Programme, and will be eligible for publication in the 2026 Bright Start Conference Proceedings (ISBN 978-2-8399-5151-7).
Journal of Early Childhood Research-Special Edition - The Next Chapter is Taking Shape
Submissions for the inaugural edition are now closed, and its international collection of research, practice and perspectives is taking shape. At the 2026 Bright Start International Conference, participants can meet contributing authors, explore their work and build cross-country collaborations. Submissions reopen in January 2027, offering a new opportunity to contribute to the evolving Voices of Children Pedagogy™.
Join the Bright Start Foundation Community
🌟 Enter a global network of early childhood practitioners and researchers, united to drive positive change in early childhood care and education across the world.