Facing the Future, Shaping the Now
Date: 10 and 11 November (national), 12 November 2025
Blended approach: SDF Zoom, Advance HE connect and Regional Networks
“The storm doesn’t break those who learn to navigate its waves.”
As learning and development professionals, we find ourselves at a pivotal juncture. The landscape of work, leadership, learning and organisational development is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by technological advancements, shifting workforce expectations, and the constant demand for adaptability.
We have faced numerous challenges, both anticipated and unforeseen. As we forge ahead, we must address crucial questions: How do we shape the future whilst responding to present demands? How can we harness AI, data, leadership, and culture to drive meaningful change?
The SDF Festival of Learning and Development 2025 will delve into these pressing issues, bringing together thought leaders, practitioners, and change-makers in a collaborative learning environment. We aim to challenge assumptions, share strategies, and develop the skills necessary to foster thriving organisations.
Festival Themes
This year’s festival will centre on four primary themes:
- Leadership and Organisational Change – Lead boldly through transformative times, equipping teams with essential tools and support. Foster a culture of coaching and open dialogue, laying the groundwork for trust and transparency. Develop leadership frameworks that nurture resilience and adaptability for future challenges.
- AI, Automation and the Digital Shift – Harness the potential of AI to revolutionise processes and create engaging content. Explore Virtual Reality and emerging technologies to reshape learning experiences. Equip learning professionals with cutting-edge digital skills to unlock new possibilities.
- The Future of Learning and Development – Make learning an integral part of everyday work life, woven seamlessly into the flow. Design flexible, inclusive learning strategies that embrace diversity and individual needs. Drive continuous improvement through upskilling, reskilling, and fostering innovation.
- Impact, Accountability and Strategic Growth – Demonstrate the significant impact of OD interventions with clarity and conviction. Shift from reactive problem-solving to proactive, strategic decision-making. Cultivate a culture of accountability and constructive performance dialogue, where feedback drives excellence.
Engaging learning formats
To create an interactive and immersive online experience, all sessions will be delivered in 45 mins via Zoom with a variety of engaging formats:
- Workshops – Hands-on learning with a mix of presentation, group activity, and discussions.
- Symposiums – Two expert-led presentations followed by a Q&A session.
- Pecha Kucha – Three dynamic & fast-paced storytelling PKs followed by a Q&A session. Each PK includes 20 slides, 20 seconds per slide.
- Learning Playground – Interactive demos and trials of new tools and techniques followed by a Q&A session.
- Panel discussions – Engaging conversations with thought leaders followed by a Q&A session.
- Case study deep dives – Real-world examples with actionable takeaways, presented by experts from Higher Education & Industry followed by a Q&A session.
- Microlearning sprints – Three short, focused sessions (15 min) delivering high-impact learning in a digestible format.
- Action Learning Sets – Small group problem-solving sessions using real challenges brought by participants (Regional sessions).
Proposal Form
We invite proposals that address these themes and contribute to the advancement of learning and development in our rapidly changing professional landscape.
Session contribution proposal form – please complete and submit if you would like to propose a session.
Deadline for submissions: 26th May 2025 5 PM