The Schools and Academies Show
SAA Show 2026, the The Schools and Academies Show, returns to Birmingham, United Kingdom from 18 November 2026 to 19 November 2026, bringing the trade fair community together. Under one roof it unites producers, wholesalers, retailers and buyers, turning a few days into a season's worth of deals. The annual format gives organisers time to raise the bar with every return. Expect to join around 4000 attendees over the course of the event. GovNet Communications produces the event, drawing on years of practice to keep each edition sharp. Doors open at National Exhibition Centre, a space designed to keep large gatherings flowing smoothly.
Part of what makes SAA Show 2026 worth the trip is Birmingham itself — a city that knows how to put on an event and give visitors something to remember. Birmingham is well connected by air and supported by an extensive local transport network, so travelling in from abroad or elsewhere in the United Kingdom is rarely a hassle. When it comes to where to stay, Birmingham offers everything from convenient venue-side hotels to boutique options in the heart of the city. Leave a little time to explore: Birmingham's dining, culture and attractions make the trip about more than just the event.
This edition puts the spotlight on Education Sector, Educational Technologies, School Improvement, School Solutions and Education & Professional Development, with exhibitors presenting their latest collections, products and innovations across these areas. It rewards the prepared: come with a plan and you can line up a season's worth of suppliers in an afternoon. With 250+ exhibitors taking part, there is no shortage of partnerships to explore. Expect to hear from Christie Spurling MBE (Founder & Chief Executive Officer, N-Gage), Emma Balchin (Chief Executive, National Governance Association (NGA)) and Paul Ainsworth (Chief Executive Officer, National Association for Able Children in Education (NACE)), alongside others.
The mix of products, people and business potential makes it a genuinely worthwhile trip. SAA Show 2026 earns its place on the calendar for producers, resellers and category buyers, edition after edition.
Travel, tickets and a rough daily plan are worth locking in early; the rest tends to fall into place once you are there.
For practical details on visiting United Kingdom — transport, visas and hotel districts — see our United Kingdom guide.
Event dates and details can change. Please verify on the official event website before booking travel or accommodation.