Every year, Wellington College hosts the Festival of Education – one of the most influential and forward‑thinking events in global education. What began as a pioneering idea in the UK has now grown into an international movement that brings educators, innovators, and thought‑leaders together from around the world.
Founded in 2010, the original UK Festival quickly established itself as a landmark event on the education calendar. Today, EdFest has expanded well beyond its British roots and now forms a global series of festivals celebrated across multiple continents.
Alongside the flagship event at Wellington College, Festivals of Education are held in China, Washington DC, and Bangkok, each shaped by the needs, innovations, and perspectives of their regional education communities.
In June 2026, the Festival will launch in the Netherlands and Spain, marking the next stage of its international growth. Further locations are already being planned as part of our ambition to unite the global education community and champion pioneering practice for future generations.
EdFest UK
EdFest UK
The UK Festival takes place annually over two days each July, attracting several thousand attendees—including teachers, leaders, policymakers, and education specialists from the UK and around the world. Around 80% come from UK state schools, while many others travel internationally to take part in the wide range of keynotes, panels, workshops, interviews, and debates.
Our international Festivals follow the same vibrant model, adapted to suit their local context, culture, and educational priorities.
“Glastonbury for educators”
“Glastonbury for educators”
The Festival is deliberately designed as a festival—not a conference. Sir Bob Geldof famously described it as “Glastonbury for educators,” capturing its atmosphere of energy, creativity, and celebration.
Live music, street food, ice cream, and deckchairs set the tone, while the programme features a blend of curated sessions led by leading voices in education and contributions selected through our open speaker application process. This unique combination ensures a diverse and dynamic range of perspectives at every Festival, wherever it takes place in the world.
