Skills Summit 2026

The Council of Deans of Health’s Skills Summit is a one-day, London-based event and the first of its kind, specifically designed for academics in the healthcare education sector who are preparing for their next career stage: Dean-level leadership. This inaugural Summit responds directly to the growing need to strengthen and support the academic pipeline by equipping leaders with the skills required to succeed at the highest levels of healthcare education.

The programme is purposefully tailored to the realities of healthcare education leadership and is not a generic leadership offering. Content will focus on the specific strategic leadership skills required for Dean-level roles, with particular relevance for those from nursing, midwifery, and allied health professional backgrounds. Participants will engage with sector-specific challenges and opportunities, ensuring learning is directly applicable to their career progression.

Alongside a high-quality learning experience delivered by prestigious and respected speakers from across the sector, the Summit offers an exciting opportunity for professional growth, reflection, and development. Attendees will also benefit from dedicated networking opportunities, enabling them to connect with like-minded peers from across the UK, share experiences, and build relationships that extend beyond the event itself.

Recognising the importance of investing in the future of healthcare education leadership, the Skills Summit is being offered to member institutions at a heavily discounted rate. This reflects the Council’s clear commitment to supporting the academic pipeline and ensuring that emerging leaders have access to targeted, high-impact development opportunities at a pivotal stage in their careers.

See the draft programme

Venue: Woburn House, London

Accommodation is not included for this event. If you do wish to book your own accommodation, there are a wide range of nearby hotels including several Premier Inns, Four Points Flex by Sheraton London Euston, Hilton London Euston and the Tavistock Hotel.

Booking terms and conditions: All bookings must be made online and we cannot offer payment by invoice. No VAT is applicable for this event and no VAT invoices will be issued. Booking confirmation will be sent directly to the delegate's email address. If you need to cancel your place, the cancellation must be received at least 30 days prior to the event to be entitled to a full refund. Alternatively you may choose to send a substitute. If a cancellation is received less than 30 days prior to the date of the event then the full fee is payable; however, a substitute may still be sent up until 7 days prior to the event. If you have any questions, please email events@cod-health.ac.uk. You can read our privacy notice on our website.