Our Wales event provides you with the latest sector updates and support in policy and practice from the experts.
And best of all? It’s free to members.
When: 26 February 2026 – 12:30 to 16:30pm
Where: Ramada Plaza, Ellice Way, Wrexham, LL13 7YH
Price: FREE to attend
Speakers include
Tim McLachlan, Chief Executive – NDNA
Tim McLachlan will give an update on the state of the sector.
More about Tim:
Tim’s career as a leader in the voluntary sector spans over 25 years developing national charities in allergy, education and social care.
Prior to joining NDNA Tim led the Institute of Food Science and Technology, the internationally respected independent membership body, supporting food professionals through knowledge sharing and professional recognition. That followed leading the rapid growth of the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation from start-up to national high-profile charity including the UK-wide implementation of Natasha’s Law and defining and funding a pioneering clinical trial to enable food allergy oral immunotherapy to be available on the NHS.
Prior to that, Tim was National Director of Services for Alzheimer’s Society across the UK. Tim holds an MBA from the University of Liverpool, their first student to do so focussing on the voluntary sector.
Jenny Smillie, Journeys, Leaves and Seeds C.I.C Founder and Director
During the session we will look at:
- Exploring the benefits of outdoor learning for 0–3s
- Practical strategies for practitioners
- Confidence-building approaches
- Aligning with the Welsh context
More about Jenny:
Jenny Smillie is an experienced early years teacher, consultant and trainer, and the founder of Journeys, Leaves & Seeds C.I.C., a community-focused organisation promoting outdoor and nature-based learning. With a background spanning teaching, leadership, and advisory roles across diverse educational settings, Jenny works with practitioners and organisations to develop inclusive, nurturing, and reflective practice.
A qualified Forest School Leader, Early Years Specialist and Certified Outdoor Mental Health Practitioner, she is passionate about the therapeutic and educational value of nature, supporting children’s holistic development through outdoor experiences and empowering educators to embed this approach in their own settings.
Iola Francis William, Manager of Childcare and Play Team, Care Inspectorate Wales
In this session, Iola will provide information on CIW’s expectations around the Welsh Language and the Active Offer, as well as some helpful updates and tips around celebrating cultural diversity and embedding anti-racist practice.
More about Iola
Iola has spent over ten years with Care Inspectorate Wales, working across the Childcare and Play and Children’s Services teams. She manages the Childcare and Play team, leading work that supports high‑quality provision and positive experiences for children. Before joining CIW, Iola worked as a local authority social worker in fostering, safeguarding, and supporting children who were looked after. Iola’s career has always centred on children and families, shaped by a strong commitment to safety, well-being, and positive outcomes. Iola is passionate about improving services and ensuring every child can thrive.
More speakers to be announced soon
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