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By the sector, for the sector
The FACE Conference
Three days of dialogue and collaboration to widen participation and advance social mobility.
The FACE Conference is a flagship event bringing together educators, policymakers, researchers, employers and community partners to explore new approaches to widening participation and advancing social mobility. Now more than ever the higher education sector faces complex challenges, and this conference sets out to spark inclusive dialogue, share solutions grounded in evidence, and galvanise collaborative action.
More than just another conference
This is not a sit and listen event. It is a gathering focused on action, bringing sector leaders, practitioners and policymakers together with one shared goal: to drive meaningful change. The FACE Conference is run by the sector, for the sector, so every conversation is rooted in real priorities and lived experience.
We foster a friendly, collegiate atmosphere where every voice is valued, from early career staff and PhD researchers to senior managers and community advocates. By encouraging open dialogue, collaboration and the honest exchange of ideas, we create a supportive environment that inspires tangible outcomes and helps delegates shape the future of access, participation and social mobility.
What to expect
Talks and panels
Hear from leading voices on policy reform, social mobility and the future of higher education.
Breakout sessions
Contribute your ideas, showcase effective practice and help shape strategies for the whole sector.
Networking
Build lasting connections with colleagues from across the UK and beyond, in scheduled events and informal meetups.
Practical takeaways
Gain insight and tools to apply in your own institution or organisation, so research informs impact in the real world.
Our mission: why this matters
FACE holds to the principle that education should be accessible to all, whatever a person's background. By convening a diverse community of practitioners and experts, the conference works to:
- Highlight barriers. Identify where systemic inequality and outdated practice limit student success.
- Share success stories. Showcase grassroots projects and research that demonstrate tangible impact.
- Drive policy and practice. Inform strategies and collaborations that are based on evidence.
- Inspire action. Motivate institutions, policymakers and individuals to turn dialogue into meaningful change.
The focus of the conference
Across three days of dialogue and collaboration we set out to create practical outputs, such as shared guidelines, policy recommendations and examples of good practice, that can be put to work across institutions nationwide. By drawing together the latest research and frontline experience, our collective insight helps shape new strategies for expanding opportunity in higher education. Ultimately these outcomes drive sustained, systemic change, building an environment where all students, whatever their background, can flourish and reach their full potential.
Accessibility
We are a community delivering activity to support all groups of students, so we want our events to be accessible too. The host venue works with AccessAble to provide detailed information about the accessibility of its facilities. Please let the organisers know of any access needs you have and the team will get in touch to make sure you have everything you need to take full part in the conference.