What Comes Next? The Future of Education Exchange
Where students' ideas meet the House of Commons
Young people have many ideas about learning and where it should lead. So, let’s share these with the people shaping what education looks like.
We’re inviting schools and colleges to nominate students to join us, as we bring educators, policymakers and sector leaders together at the House of Commons to explore what will make the biggest difference to education and young people now and in the future.
House of Commons (Palace of Westminster), London
Afternoon tea will be provided
About the event
What Comes Next? The Future of Education Exchange is all about turning insight into ideas, and conversations into action.
Building on perspectives from the Pearson School & College Report series, students will lead discussions about learning today and shaping its future – from choices and pathways, to skills and AI. Together, we'll explore their hopes, the changes they believe could matter most to young people, and how we can make these a reality.
Being part of the conversation
Education should be shaped with the people it affects most. Whether your students are passionate about skills, curious about the impact of technology on life and learning, or have ideas about what could help future students thrive, we'd love to hear from them.
Secondary schools and colleges in England can nominate up to three students to share their views on:
What we’re learning and why
The knowledge and skills that matter for life and work
Where choices lead
Subject options, qualification pathways, and what success looks like
How learning is changing
The impact of technology and AI on education and everyday life
How can learning help everyone thrive
Supporting wellbeing, belonging and confidence
Your students don’t need all the answers or lots of public speaking experience. We’re simply looking for young people who’d like – and would feel comfortable – sharing their experiences and ideas with those who are involved in making decisions about education now and in the years to come.
All you need to tell us at the nomination stage is how many students you'd like to put forward, their age range, and the topic areas you think they'd like to discuss.
Ready to nominate your students?
Great! Simply complete our nomination form.* It includes some short questions about your secondary school/college and what your students would like to discuss, so we can showcase a range of perspectives on the day.
Take me to the nomination form
* As space at the event is limited, submitting a nomination is an expression of interest and does not guarantee a place. We'll review all applications and let you know the outcomes by Wednesday 23 September 2026.
Got a question that isn't listed? Send it to us by email!