Highlights from Flourish 2026 – A Conference to Remember
Since launching its first conference in 2022, ICAP has grown and evolved significantly, from a bold industry initiative into a leading voice and trusted community within the children’s activity sector. Each year has built on the last, and Flourish 2026 marked another major step forward in that journey, bringing together more insight and impact than ever before.
With warmth, energy and a clear sense of purpose, Andy Georgiou, ICAP’s Founder, welcomed attendees and introduced the day with exciting updates about the sector. It was a powerful reminder of just how far the industry has come and how much opportunity still lies ahead.
Industry Insights
Led by Theo Millward and Dr Jenni Bradford, this session provided a valuable overview of the current landscape of the children’s activity sector. Drawing on real experiences and sector-wide knowledge, it highlighted both the opportunities and the challenges facing operators today.
The insights shared were grounded, relevant and forward-looking, giving attendees a clear understanding of where the industry stands and where it is heading. It was the perfect foundation for the rest of the event.
Seeing What’s Really Driving Growth
Following on, Seeing What’s Really Driving Growth brought a deeper dive into the key drivers behind business success. Delivered by Theo Millward and Adam Lovelock (of Coconut Marketing), this session moved beyond theory into practical, data-driven insights.
The discussion focused on what is truly fuelling growth right now from adaptability and strong community engagement to smart marketing strategies and operational excellence. Honest and actionable, it left attendees with clear takeaways and a renewed confidence in how to move their businesses forward.
Bringing Strategy to Life
One of the most impactful sessions of the conference focused on a challenge many business owners face; turning strategy from a static document into something that genuinely drives daily action.
Led by Suzie McCafferty (from Platinum Wave Franchising), How to Bring a Strategy to Life Day-to-Day, delivered a practical and refreshing approach to embedding strategy into the everyday rhythm of running a business.
Suzie emphasised that strategy should never sit on a shelf. Instead, it should guide decision-making, shape team behaviour and influence priorities at every level. Through clear, actionable advice, she demonstrated how to break down big-picture goals into manageable, consistent actions that teams can live and breathe daily.
Live Franchisor Think Tank
One of the most dynamic and interactive sessions of the conference, the Live Franchisor Think Tank brought together real-world challenges and collaborative problem-solving in real time.
Facilitated by Dan Farrell (from Sparks Arts) and James Fay-Sedgwick (from The BFA), the session created an open space for franchisors to share experiences, explore obstacles and work through practical solutions together.
Rather than a traditional presentation, this was a working session – fast-paced, honest and highly engaging. Attendees contributed directly to discussions around growth, consistency, operational challenges and scaling effectively within a franchise model.
The value came not only from expert input, but from the collective knowledge in the room. Real scenarios were unpacked, different perspectives were shared, and actionable ideas emerged that participants could take straight back into their businesses.
It was a standout moment of collaboration, reinforcing the power of shared learning within the franchising community and leaving attendees with fresh thinking and renewed momentum.
If you’re a franchisor, check out the quarterly ICAP Franchisor Think Tanks. Email us for more details: hello@i-cap.co.uk
Tell Your Own Growth Story (in 30 minutes)
Led by Andrew Walters (from Kindling Franchise), this was a powerful reminder that growth isn’t about simply doing more – it’s about doing what matters. In a fast-paced and highly practical workshop, Andrew stripped away the overwhelm of complex data and showed delegates how to focus on the key numbers that truly drive their business forward.
With a refreshingly no-jargon approach, Andrew helped attendees turn everyday figures into a clear growth story – one that reveals opportunities, sharpens decision-making, and ultimately increases profitability. It was real, actionable insight that left people feeling more confident and in control of their next steps.
From Business Theory to Business Ownership: My Franchising Experience
Led by Roger Grogan (from Jamcoding), this session offered a clear and honest insight into the journey from business theory to real-world franchising.
Roger shared practical lessons from his own experience, highlighting what it truly takes to move from planning a business to successfully operating one.
The session focused on the realities of franchising what works, what doesn’t, and the importance of consistency, systems and adaptability. Attendees left with a grounded understanding of the franchising journey and the key factors that drive long-term success.
Offering a candid and relatable perspective on the leap from idea to execution, this session resonated particularly strongly with those considering franchising or looking to scale.
Protecting Children and Your Business: Legal Obligations on Background Checking
Led by Jim Flower (from uCheck), this essential session focused on the legal responsibilities involved in safeguarding children within the activity sector.
Jim provided clear, practical guidance on background checking and compliance requirements, helping operators understand what is needed to meet legal obligations and maintain the highest standards of safety.
The session reinforced the importance of robust safeguarding processes – not only to protect children, but also to protect businesses and build long-term trust and credibility within the sector.
Fireside Chat
The Fireside Chat brought a warm, open and reflective moment to the conference, offering attendees the chance to step back and explore the wider challenges and opportunities shaping the sector.
Featuring Pip Wilkins (from The BFA) and Sarah Cressall OBE (founder of The Creation Station), the conversation was honest, engaging and full of real insight drawn from years of leadership and experience.
Together, they discussed the realities of running and growing businesses in today’s environment, sharing perspectives on leadership, resilience and the importance of community within the children’s activity sector.
It was an inspiring and thoughtful session that encouraged reflection while reinforcing a strong sense of shared purpose across the audience.
From Solo to Scalable: Growing Your Team Without Losing Your Identity
In this insightful session, Dylan Jones (from CELS) explored the journey of scaling a business while staying true to its core identity.
Dylan shared practical strategies for moving from a solo operator mindset to building a structured, scalable team – without losing the values, culture and personal touch that made the business successful in the first place.
The session focused on leadership, delegation and creating systems that support growth while protecting brand integrity. Attendees left with a clearer understanding of how to expand confidently while maintaining what makes their business unique.
Dylan is the inaugural winner of the ICAP 2025 Pioneer in Education Award.
Increasing Participation: How to Increase Your Attendance Figures
Led by Craig Jones (from High Five Group), this practical session focused on one of the sector’s biggest priorities – boosting attendance and improving retention.
Craig shared clear, actionable strategies to help operators attract more families, increase engagement, and turn enquiries into consistent bookings.
The session explored simple but effective approaches to communication, customer experience and community connection, giving attendees practical tools they could implement immediately to grow their attendance figures and strengthen long-term participation.
Marketing That Truly Works
In an increasingly digital world, marketing remains a key driver of growth – and Tamara Holland (from Dot & Stripe) delivered one of the most talked-about sessions of the event.
Tamara’s session, How to Capture Attention Using Instagram and Convert It Into Class Bookings, was packed with practical advice. From creating engaging content to building trust and driving conversions, attendees gained clear, actionable strategies to turn social media activity into real business results.
Tamara is running a follow-on session titled “From Instagram to Inbox: Turn Followers Into Full Classes.” If you’re growing your Instagram but struggling to convert followers into bookings, this free webinar will share practical strategies to turn engagement into real, repeat customers for your children’s activity classes. It takes place on Wednesday, 22nd April at 12:00 PM 
Register here:
The Big Report: Panel Session
The Big Report: Panel Session brought together a powerful line-up of voices from across the sector to explore the findings of the brand-new Children’s Activity Sector Benchmark Report.
Featuring Dr Jenni Bradford (ICAP), Abi Jacks (Love Admin), Andrew Walters (Kindling Franchise Consultants) and Nicole Bateman (The Friendly SEND Advisor), the discussion provided a first look at what is really happening across the industry.
The panel unpacked key trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the sector, offering honest reflections and data-driven insight. It was a standout moment of the conference, sparking valuable discussion and giving attendees a clearer understanding of where the industry is heading next.
Celebrating Success: ICAP Awards 2026
A true highlight of the event was the ICAP Awards 2026. Truly outstanding achievements across the sector were recognised and celebrated.
These awards showcased the incredible passion, innovation and dedication that continue to drive the children’s activity and education industry forward. They didn’t just celebrate success – they inspired it.
Congratulations to all of this year’s winners:
- Customer Service Champion – Outstanding Achievement in Customer Service
Winner: Barracudas Activity Day Camps
Thank you to Book That In for sponsoring this award and making it possible to celebrate amazing customer service in the sector. Book That In is the fastest-growing online booking system for children’s activities in the UK. Dedicated to helping you grow your business, they have processed over £7 million in bookings since their launch in 2017 and enabled over 200,000 people to find and book activities they will enjoy.
- Community Beacon – Outstanding Achievement in Inclusivity & Community Engagement
Winner: Fixation Academy of Performing Arts
Thank you to Happity for sponsoring this award and making it possible to recognise outstanding inclusivity and community engagement. Happity is the UK’s largest marketplace for baby and toddler classes, supporting millions of parents in finding activities, building connections, and feeling less alone during early parenthood.
- Trailblazer – Outstanding Achievement in Innovation
Winner: Stem Club UK
Thank you to FranScape for sponsoring this award and making it possible to celebrate innovation across the sector. FranScape is a multi award-winning franchise management platform for children’s activity businesses, helping organisations streamline bookings, harness powerful data, and scale with industry-leading automation.
- Pioneer in Education – Outstanding Achievement in Educating Children
Winner: KidsLingo
Thank you to Skilltime Training Academy for sponsoring this award and making it possible to recognise excellence in children’s education. Skilltime is a trusted UK training provider, delivering high-quality, flexible courses that meet and exceed industry standards, supported by experienced tutors and accredited by leading awarding organisations.
- Rising Star – Outstanding Achievement in Growth and Vision for the Future
Winner: Stem Club UK
Thank you to the BFA for sponsoring this award and making it possible to celebrate growth and future vision within the sector. With over 40 years of experience, the BFA supports and educates franchisors and franchisees at every stage of their journey, promoting high ethical standards and helping to shape the future of franchising in the UK.
- ICAP Icon – Outstanding Contribution to the Children’s Activities Sector
Winner: Cerys Keneally
Thank you to uCheck for sponsoring this award and supporting excellence across the children’s activities sector. uCheck is a leading UK online employment screening service, providing fast and secure checks including DBS, Right to Work, and identity verification, helping organisations recruit safely and with confidence.
A huge congratulations to all winners for their well-deserved recognition, and a sincere thank you to our awards sponsors for supporting and celebrating excellence across the sector.
Connections, Collaboration and Community
Beyond the sessions, Flourish 2026 truly came alive in the spaces between. The Networking & Supplier Showcase was a vibrant hub of activity, bringing together a curated selection of leading brands alongside operators from across the children’s activity and education sector.
A huge thank you to our incredible sponsors and exhibitors who helped make the event possible:
Gold Sponsors: FranScape and uCheck
Silver Sponsors: Citation Cyber and Citation
Exhibitors: Book That In, Booking Autopilot, Cerys, Coconut Marketing, Dot & Stripe, Excels Law, Kindling Franchise, Koffee Klatch, LoveAdmin, Pebble, Skilltime, BFA, and the dt group.
A Conference That Delivers
Every session went beyond insight. It was built for action. Attendees didn’t just gain inspiration they left with clarity, confidence and practical tools they could immediately apply within their businesses.
From fresh ideas to proven strategies, the conference equipped delegates to think bigger, act smarter and take meaningful steps towards sustainable growth.
What attendees are saying:
“Big shoutout to the entire ICAP team! This was my second year attending ICAP Flourish, and once again, I loved every moment of it.
STEM CLUB UK has grown massively as a brand, and ICAP has played a huge part in that journey. I’ve learned so much—from Jenni, the workshops, and the overall experience. The value provided is genuinely next level.
The membership itself is excellent. From insurance and DBS checks to safeguarding support, it takes care of so much of the admin side of running a company, which is a game changer.
The way the event is put together is also spot on—it really connects with people who are actively working in the industry, making everything feel relevant and practical.
Already looking forward to next year!”- RAJVEER MAHARAUL
Thank You – and See You Next Year
Flourish 2026 brought together the very best of the children’s activity and education sector – and showcased what’s possible when passionate people come together.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us, and to our incredible speakers, partners and sponsors for their continued support.
We hope you left feeling inspired, energised and ready to take the next step in your journey.
We can’t wait to see you again next year.
The ICAP 2027 ‘Flourish’ Conference is already in the works…
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