TEY EDTalks 2026

TEY
EDTalks

Stories Transforming the Early Years — TED-style talks by early years educators sharing the moments, ideas, and experiences that shaped their practice.

DateSaturday, 26 September 2026
Applications Open1st July 2026

What is TEY EDTalks?

Every educator has a story.

Every child has a story. Every educator has one too. Behind every confident child, breakthrough moment, innovative classroom, or strengthened family partnership is often an educator whose actions made a lasting difference.

TEY EDTalks is a series of short, powerful TED-style talks where early years educators share a story that demonstrates the impact of early childhood education on a child, family, colleague, community, or learning environment.

These are not academic presentations or research papers. They are stories of practice, courage, growth, transformation, and the difference educators make every day.

Talk Format

8 minutes. One powerful idea.

8
Minutes to share your story, idea, or reflection

3
Speakers selected from across the early years community

0
Prior public speaking experience required — just authenticity

We are looking for stories about

Authentic, practical, and inspiring stories from across the early years community.

A moment that transformed your approach to teaching or leadership
An innovative practice that positively impacted children or families
Lessons learned from a challenge, setback, or unexpected experience
Building belonging, wellbeing, or inclusion in early years settings

Partnering with families in meaningful ways
Supporting children with diverse learning needs
Creating environments that foster curiosity, independence, and joy
A bold idea that could shape the future of early childhood education

Open to

Early Years Educators
Centre Leaders
Pedagogical Leaders
Inclusion Specialists
Teacher Trainers & Mentors
Anyone with a story to share

Why share your story?

01

TEY Voice of Impact Award

Selected speakers will be recognised for their contribution to transforming the lives of children, families, and communities through early childhood education.

02

50% Off Conference Access

Selected speakers receive 50% off registration for TEY 2026, along with access to all conference sessions, networking opportunities, and professional learning experiences.

03

Be Featured by TEY

Selected stories may be highlighted through conference publications, social media channels, newsletters, podcasts, and professional learning networks.

How to apply

We welcome both self-nominations and peer nominations. If you know an educator whose story deserves to be celebrated — nominate them.

Your Application Should Include

Your full name, designation, and contact information
A brief summary of your story (500–800 words)
The key message or lesson for the audience
Why this story matters to the early years community

What Happens Next

1

Applications reviewed by the TEY Conference team

2

Shortlisted applicants receive a call from the TEY team

3

Successful speakers notified by email by 17 September

4

Share your story at TEY 2026 on 26 September

Important Dates

1 July 2026
Applications Open

10 September 2026
Applications Close

17 September 2026
Speaker Selection Notification

26 September 2026
TEY Conference — Educators Day
Kai Early Years, Bangalore

Your Story Could Inspire Change

Apply to be a TEY EDTalk Speaker

Some of the most powerful moments in education never appear in reports or assessments. If you have a story that reminds us why early childhood education matters, we would love to hear it.

Apply Now →
Nominate an Educator →

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