The 9th China Festival of Education: Shaping the Future, Together
The 9th China Festival of Education
Education is constantly evolving. Join us at the 9th China Festival of Education to explore what’s next. Hosted by Wellington College Education (China) on 18 April 2026, this flagship event will bring together educators, thought leaders and innovators from China and around the world, all united by a shared passion for shaping the future of education.
Meet Our Speakers
We’re excited to introduce our outstanding roster of speakers. This list grows by the day, so stay tuned!
Chloe Combi
Author and Leading Expert on Gen Z and Gen Alpha
Chloe is a leading authority on Generations Z and Alpha, with over 20,000 interviews to her name. A bestselling author and podcast creator, she advises global organisations and works directly with young people, translating their experiences into practical advice for educators and parents.
Owen O’Kane
Psychotherapist and Author
Owen is a renowned psychotherapist and bestselling author, with over 25 years’ experience in mental health. A former NHS Clinical Lead, he is known for his warm, accessible style and expertise in wellbeing. He regularly appears on BBC Radio 5 Live and collaborates with leading media personalities.
Rita Bateson
Co-Founder and Director of Education, Eblana Learning
Rita is an experienced educator, curriculum designer and consultant, specialising in international education and AI. Formerly at IB Global Headquarters, she helps schools worldwide integrate innovative, ethical practices. Her forthcoming book guides school leaders through the challenges and opportunities of AI in education.
Tom Sherrington
Author and Consultant, Teaching WalkThrus International Ltd
Tom is an education consultant, author and former school leader with 30 years’ experience. He co-authored the Teaching WalkThrus series and writes the popular teacherhead.com blog. Tom supports schools globally with training, focusing on practical strategies to improve teaching and learning.
Stuart Kime
Co-Founder and Director of Education, Evidence Based Education
Stuart is a qualified teacher and education researcher, specialising in evidence-based professional learning. He has held senior roles in schools, government and universities, including as Policy Fellow at the Department for Education. Stuart actively contributes to international research and educational advisory boards.
Valentina Devid
Co-Founder and Educational Consultant, Formative Action School
Valentina is a former school leader and history teacher, now specialising in formative assessment. She co-founded the Formative Action School, designs professional development programmes, and co-authored Formative Action: From Instrument to Design. Valentina also co-hosts the LLEARN podcast on assessment and curriculum.
Attend Our Partner Events
In conjunction with this year’s Festival, our partners will also offer even more opportunities to learn, connect, and innovate. Don’t miss these sessions!
AISH OASIS Day Shanghai:
Leading with Confidence in the Age of AI
Hosted by the Academy for International School Heads (AISH), OASIS Day Shanghai is a hands-on, full-day workshop empowering school leaders to navigate AI with confidence, ethics, and purpose. Designed for current and aspiring school heads, this is an opportunity to work with experts, real case studies and practical frameworks to develop actionable plans and keep innovation purposeful and student-focused.
Inspiring Young Writers:
Building a Joyful, Inclusive Writing Culture
Discover practical, play-based strategies for nurturing confident young writers with Kym Scott. These workshops offer fresh ideas for building inclusive, inspiring writing environments. This session is for any teachers working with children aged 3-7 years.
