As Melbourne gears up for the National Education Summit in August, there’s one part of the event that promises to transform classrooms: The Education Show.
The National Education Summit in Melbourne is proving to be a popular event on the education calendar, with registrations up 92 per cent on last year.
Taking place Thursday 28 – Friday 29 August at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, organisers say this year’s event promises to be an unmissable opportunity to connect, learn, and walk away inspired.
“After a demanding few years, educators are craving opportunities to step out of the classroom, connect face to face, and reignite their passion for teaching,” Ms Margo Metcalf, Creative Director, IE Group, organisers of the Summit, said.
“This event offers exactly that – a chance to collaborate, discover fresh ideas, and return to school with renewed energy and practical strategies. Plus, attending the Summit will count toward your professional development hours, making it a valuable experience both personally and professionally.”
At the heart of the Summit is The Education Show, a free expo where educators can explore the latest innovations in teaching tools, technology, and classroom resources.
“This is their chance to touch, test, and try the newest products making waves in the education space, directly from leading brands and solution providers,” Ms Metcalf said.
This year’s Summit introduces new free activations, designed to support the wellbeing, development, and engagement of educators.
“From virtual reality (VR) learning labs to sensory supports, the Expo is designed for educators to engage directly with products, ensuring every tool fits their unique classroom needs,” Ms Metcalf said.
“Attendees can expect inspiring live demonstrations, competitions, and exclusive giveaways. This is their chance to experience what’s next in education first-hand.”
Highlights include:
- Mindflight7’s immersive VR demos like the Anatomy Lab and Math Worlds, giving you a taste of what’s possible for STEM education.
- Apsis VR’s interactive Escape Room programs, where you can try innovative VR tools and even secure discounts for your next excursion or incursion.
- Canine Comprehension’s therapy dogs, Gruffalo and Maisey, showcasing the power of dog-assisted learning.
- The Sensory Specialist’s classroom tools, where you can claim a free stress ball and try flexible seating options like wobble stools.
- Yakult Australia’s prize wheel, virtual tours, and free educational resources perfect for lessons on health and sustainability.
Free programs: Professional development hours that matter
On the Expo floor, the Summit also offers a wealth of free professional development sessions in the Knowledge Centre and Classroom of the Future.
Led by renowned educators and thought leaders, these expert-led talks allow teachers to earn valuable PD hours, all while exploring the key topics that matter most to them — from inclusive education strategies to the future of digital learning.
“With a pick-and-choose approach, every attendee can tailor their learning journey to their own professional goals,” Ms Metcalf said.
Connect, relax, and capture the moment
Education thrives on community, and the summit’s Networking Lounge provides a welcoming space for educators to exchange ideas and build lasting connections with like-minded peers and exhibitors.
Dive deep into timely topics with innovative educators in dynamic, small-group settings. Round Table Discussions allows attendees to ask questions, share their insights, and walk away with actionable ideas.
For those wanting a break, the Chill Zone, hosted by Fiona Sullivan of Samuda Creative Consulting, offers a tranquil escape. It features breathing techniques, gentle yoga flows, and creative workshops to help educators recharge.
Meanwhile, the Social Snap station lets attendees capture professional headshots or fun (free) team photos — perfect for updating LinkedIn profiles or school newsletters.
The Summit is also hosting a Book Signing nook, where attendees can meet influential education authors, get their book signed, and snap selfies with minds shaping modern classrooms.
The National Education Summit is a standout opportunity for educators to innovate, rejuvenate, and collaborate. Whether eager to experiment with the latest tech, gain actionable strategies, or simply connect with fellow educators, this free Expo promises practical takeaways to inspire and empower every teacher to transform their classroom.
Speaker spotlight
Marcus Veerman, Founder & Co-Designer, Nüdel Kart
Discover the story behind the Nüdel Kart, a globally recognised, modular play-based learning tool designed to spark creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving in children. The presentation explores the power of loose parts play, the research behind the design, and how the Nüdel Kart is transforming education around the world.
Dr Ian Hunter, Founder, Writer’s Toolbox
Using the world’s largest case study on writing intervention using educational AI, Dr Ian Hunter explores the profound impact on student performance, joy, confidence, and self-belief that is possible. For any school or school leader concerned about school underperformance in writing, or low student engagement or self-belief around writing, this session is a must see. For those wanting to understand the evidence-backed impact of educational AI in the classroom and what an effective digital journey in education might look like, this session provides compelling insights and practical applications.
Secure your free ticket now at www.nationaleducationsummit.com.au/register
