The overarching theme of the 10th International Action Learning Conference is ‘Sustaining Work and Practice in a Changing World’. We invite exploration of how action learning supports people and organisations to sustain work and practice in the face of deep, interconnected changes in how work is organised, experienced, and valued.

In particular, we encourage submissions focused on one or more of the following three areas:

Supporting Learning and Action in Complex, Evolving Practice

This theme explores how action learning - as methodology, intervention or practice - can sustain work in different sectors and situations characterised by uncertainty and rapid change. We welcome papers on how action learning supports learning from experience, shared inquiry and thoughtful action in complex and evolving practices.

Making Sense of Work

This theme explores how action learning can deepen participants’ sense of purpose, engagement, and value in their work. Contributions might examine how reflection, questioning, and collaborative problem-solving can help individuals reconnect with why their work matters, reshape professional identity, and align personal values with organisational goals.

Developing Relationships Through Action Learning

This theme focuses on how action learning strengthens relationships within sets and beyond. Using AL to develop positive relationships can be seen in particular in cases where people from different backgrounds, organisations or professions are brought together to work on issues of common concern.

Submission types

We invite proposals for papers, workshops and other suggested contributions for submission:

• Research papers – abstract of 300-450 words
  
• Accounts of practice or workshops – outline of 150-300 words

Submission guidelines

The submission window for the conference is open from Friday 4 September to Friday 4 December 2026. Proposals must be submitted by email to ALC@bath.ac.uk along with author(s) affiliation details and a clear indication of the submission type.

Conference dates and schedule

Conference costs

Registration opens on Monday 3 August 2026, with a secure link available on this page to book your place and complete payment.

• Early bird bookings: £275 – closes 22 January 2027
• Full delegate fee: £325 – closes 26 February 2027
• Daily rate – closes 26 February 2027
  • Day 1: £175
  • Day 2: £210
  • Day 3: £155

The delegate fee and early bird rate includes:

• Welcome reception on Tuesday evening
  
• Admission to all sessions and plenaries
  
• Access to conference materials
  
• Tea, coffee and light refreshments throughout the conference
  
• Lunches for day 2 and 3
  
• Conference dinner on Wednesday

Please note:

• The day rate only allows access to the conference for a specified day and refreshments during that day
  
• Accommodation is not included in the fees and must be booked separately. There are several options available in the city of Bath.

Accommodation

Bath is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors year-round. As a result, the city offers an extensive range of accommodation, from boutique and luxury hotels to spa properties and budget-friendly options, ensuring ample choice for all conference attendees. For more information, please see the Visit Bath website.

The conference committee has negotiated delegate rates with the following hotels:

• The Hampton
• The Bird
• Hotel Indigo

Conference location

10 East Building, University of Bath School of Management, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, Bath, UK

About the University of Bath

The University of Bath is a top 10 UK university with a reputation for research and teaching excellence, ranked 132nd globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026.

The campus is located on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath, which is famous for its Roman heritage and Georgian architecture. The University is well-served with public transport links to the city centre.

The School of Management is home to a large body of academics carrying out world-leading research on experiences of the workplace, the shifting landscape of employment and the impacts of artificial intelligence. This includes the Future of Work research centre, a knowledge hub focusing on how work is changing and will continue to change, with new technologies, attitudes and ways of working.

Getting here

The University of Bath is easily accessible from major UK airports and nearby cities, with Bristol Airport just 45 minutes away by car or Air Decker bus from the city centre. Travellers from Heathrow or Gatwick can reach Bath Spa railway station via rail or coach networks.

From Bath Spa station, the University campus is a short taxi ride away, with frequent bus services (operated by the First Bus Company) running between the city centre and campus.

For those driving, the campus is reached via the M4 (Junction 18) and A46, with parking available in designated car parks.

Please view our full information pack on how to get to the University of Bath School of Management.

Organising committee

For enquiries about the conference, email us: ALC@bath.ac.uk