Conference Overview

The Forum for Access and Continuing Education (FACE) Conference is a flagship event bringing together educators, policymakers, researchers, employers, and community partners to explore innovative approaches to widening participation and advancing social mobility. Now more than ever, the higher education sector faces complex challenges—this conference aims to spark inclusive dialogue, share evidence-based solutions, and galvanize collaborative action.

More Than ‘Just Another Conference’

This isn’t a standard sit-and-listen event. It’s an action-focused gathering that brings together sector leaders, practitioners, and policymakers with one shared goal: to drive meaningful change. The FACE Conference is run by the sector, for the sector, ensuring that every conversation is rooted in real priorities and lived experiences. 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 aim to create a supportive environment that inspires tangible outcomes and empowers delegates to shape the future of widening access and participation and social mobility.

What to Expect

• Thought-Provoking Talks & Panels: Hear from leading voices on topics such as policy reform, social mobility, and the future of the higher education landscape.
• Interactive Breakout Sessions: Contribute your ideas, showcase effective practices, and help co-create sector-wide strategies.
• Networking & Collaboration: Build lasting connections with colleagues from across the UK and beyond, during scheduled networking events and informal meetups.
• Practical Takeaways: Gain insights and tools to apply in your own institution or organization—ensuring that research informs real-world impact.

Our Mission: Why This Matters

FACE is dedicated to the principle that education should be accessible to all, regardless of background. By convening a diverse community of practitioners and experts, the Conference works to:

1. Highlight Barriers: Identify where systemic inequalities and outdated practices limit student success.
2. Share Success Stories: Showcase grassroots projects and research findings that demonstrate tangible impact.
3. Drive Policy & Practice: Inform the development of evidence-based strategies and collaborations.
4. Inspire Action: Motivate institutions, policymakers, and individuals to translate dialogue into meaningful change.

The focus of the conference

Throughout the three days of dialogue and collaboration, we aim to co-create practical outputs—such as shared guidelines, policy recommendations, and evidence-based best practices—that can be implemented across institutions nationwide. By drawing together cutting-edge research and frontline experiences, our collective insights will help shape new strategies for expanding opportunities in higher education. Ultimately, these outcomes will drive sustained, systemic change, fostering an environment where all students—regardless of their backgrounds—can flourish and achieve their full potential.

accessibilty 

We are a community that is delivering activity to support all groups of students and so we want to make sure that our events are also accessible. Bath works with AccessAble to provide detailed information about the accessibility of their facilities. Please ensure you let the organisers know of any access needs you have and the team will get in touch to ensure you have everything you need to be able to fully access the conference.