ColegauCymru to Host Inaugural National Safeguarding Conference for Further Education Colleges

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Safeguarding in Education: Excellence Through Delivery

Professionals from across the FE sector will come together this summer for the first ColegauCymru Welsh National Safeguarding Conference for Further Education, a major sector event focused on strengthening practice, policy and delivery.

Funded by Medr, the conference will take place on Monday 22 June 2026 in Cardiff and will provide delegates with a comprehensive update on key developments in Wales while exploring the challenges, responsibilities and opportunities shaping the sector’s landscape.

Held under the theme Safeguarding in Education: Excellence Through Delivery, the day will bring together leading experts, practitioners and policymakers to share the latest guidance, legal updates and practical approaches for further education settings.

ColegauCymru Chief Executive, David Hagendyk, said,

“Safeguarding is the most important responsibilities across FE, and this conference provides an invaluable opportunity for the sector to come together, share expertise and strengthen practice across Wales. We are delighted to welcome such a distinguished line-up of speakers who will provide important insight into the evolving landscape and support colleges in continuing to deliver safe, supportive learning environments for all learners and staff.”

The programme will feature keynote addresses from nationally recognised specialists including Jan Pickles, who will deliver a keynote exploring multi-agency learning and strengthening governance.

Delegates will also hear from Dai Durbridge, who will speak on Professional Safeguarding Excellence and later deliver a practical session titled Get Court Ready.

Additional sessions will include an update on policy, governance and next steps from Siân Jones, alongside a specialist session from Zoe Lodrick on Understanding the Psychology of the Offender.

Delegates will also gain insight into lived experience perspectives through a session led by Pembrokeshire College’s Maxine Thomas, as well as opportunities throughout the day to network with colleagues from across Wales.

ColegauCymru Learner Experience Group Co-Chair, Catherine Lewis, added,

“This conference will provide colleagues with practical knowledge, professional insight and valuable opportunities to reflect on how we continue to strengthen delivery across FE. The quality of speakers and breadth of topics throughout the day will ensure delegates leave feeling informed, supported and better equipped to respond to current and emerging challenges.”

The day will conclude with a panel discussion and delegate Q&A featuring strategic leaders from across Wales, providing attendees with the opportunity to discuss key themes, emerging priorities and next steps for the sector.

Further Information
For further information, please contact Rachel.Rimanti@ColegauCymru.ac.uk

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