Taking place online on Wednesday 21 January 2026, 16:00–17:30, Professionally Speaking 2026 will feature Professor Kelly Mackintosh of Swansea University as the keynote speaker. The session will explore one of the most pressing challenges facing the education workforce today, learner behaviour, and the potential role physical activity can play in supporting positive behaviour and wellbeing.
Across schools, colleges, and other learning settings, behaviour remains a topic that consistently tests educators’ resilience and creativity. Low-level disruption, emotional regulation, disengagement, and the growing pressures on learner wellbeing have all been widely reported.
Professor Mackintosh, an expert in physical activity for health, will explore how integrating movement, from active learning and short activity breaks to more structured physical education, can make a measurable difference to behaviour and engagement.
The 90-minute session will feature a keynote presentation followed by a live Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to share their own experiences and put questions directly to Professor Mackintosh.
Professionally Speaking has become a highlight of the EWC’s annual calendar, offering a space for education practitioners to come together, reflect on key issues, and draw on the latest thinking shaping the sector.
Launching registration, EWC Chief Executive Lisa Winstone said “We know behaviour and wellbeing are at the heart of many current challenges in education. This event will provide valuable perspectives on how physical activity can play a part in creating more positive learning environments.”
Open and free to all 91,000+ registered education professionals across Wales, Professionally Speaking 2026 promises an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that blends research insight with practical, real-world relevance.