SPEAKER FAQS

What do you need from me before the Show? 

  • To build out master decks and double check slides for 80+ sessions, our AV team requires all presentations to be sent through by close of play on Friday 2 May. After this point, we cannot guarantee any submissions or amendments will be accounted for. 

    Presentation slides are not required or expected for panels or fireside sessions.  

  • Your presentation: 

    • Must be in .pptx format 

    • Must be in 16:9 ratio 

    • Any embedded media must be sent through as a separate file (ideally in 1080p as an MP4 file) 

    Any files too large to attach to an e-mail should be sent to the content team directly via WeTransfer, and the WeTransfer link also shared in an e-mail to the team as a back up. 

  • We recommend bios to be between 100-250 words, but there is no set length or format. 

  • Around six weeks before the Show, the content team will be in touch to share any outstanding information required and any important information for you to be aware of. 

    If you are a panellist, the content team will connect you with your fellow speakers about four weeks before the Show, so that you can get to know each other and plan the session. 

    If you have any concerns or questions in the meantime, of course, please do not hesitate to get in touch. 

  • Please advise your main point of contact in the content team, who will be able to get you the most accurate information and liaise with our operations team on any finer points. 

    There are two step-free stations to access the ExCel. All public entrances to the ExCel allow for access by wheelchair via low gradient ramps and an automatic door. Once inside the venue, all floors are level, offering unobstructed access. Mobility scooters and wheelchairs are free of charge to hire (subject to availability; you will need to select the dates and aid you need). There is disabled parking and disabled toilets on site. Guide and assistance dogs are welcome.  

    Further general accessibility information can be found here; however, please let our team know so that we can make the best arrangements and relevant accommodations for your needs: https://www.excel.london/visitor/venue-guide/accessibility  

Registering for the event 

  • No – as a speaker, we will take care of your registration. Please ensure, if we haven’t already received it, that you send us your job title and organisation name as you’d like it to appear on your badge, and the best e-mail address for you to be reached on for sharing logistical information.  

  • Yes, absolutely. Colleagues can register for the Show on the main Schools & Academies Show website: https://www.schoolsandacademiesshow.co.uk/ 

    The event is free to attend for anyone working in the education or public sector. 

On the day

  • More information on planning the best route to the ExCel can be found here: https://www.excel.london/visitor/getting-here 

  • Parking isn’t free if you’re driving to the ExCel; however, we may be able to cover this expense for you. Please flag this with your point of contact and we will see what we can sort out for you. 

    Access to the car park is only via the A13. If you’re using satellite navigation, please enter the postcode E16 1FR for the entrance to the car park or what3words ///cheer.events.began 

    More information about parking at the ExCeL here: https://www.excel.london/visitor/getting-here/parking-and-taxis

  • You can search for your name or session title on the left-hand side of the agenda page to see your session time: https://www.schoolsandacademiesshow.co.uk/agenda 

    Generally, the time of your session will be the time on your e-mail invitation. However, session timings occasionally must be shifted slightly. The content team will inform you of any changes, but please check the website for the most up to date timings. 

  • Simply download the GovNet App on your phone, logging in using the e-mail address you were registered with (unless otherwise agreed with the content team, this is the e-mail address your speaker invitation was sent to). You can then click ‘My Badge’ to access your unique QR code which is scanned on arrival to print your badge. 

    There will be a dedicated speaker registration desk on arrival, with staff on hand to help if you can’t access your QR code for whatever reason. 

  • After collecting your badge, staff at the speaker registration desk will direct you to check in to our dedicated Speaker Lounge, where you will be able to grab some refreshments, sit and catch up on e-mails, or meet fellow panellists and check presentation slides if relevant. The content team will be based in the Speaker Lounge and will be able to answer any practical questions and direct you to your theatre as required. 

  • We recommend you arrive at least 45 minutes prior to your session, and that you arrive at your theatre 15 minutes prior to your session for the AV team to mic you up. 

    You are, of course, welcome to spend the day at the Show should your diary allow – please do not feel that your attendance is limited to the duration of your session. We very much hope that the wider content on the day is of benefit for you. 

  • Complimentary event cloakrooms are located on level 0 (down the stairs, between Hall entrances N4 & S4) and at the east end of the venue on level 0.