The Portal Trust Education Lecture 2026: “Putting Children First: Education, opportunity and the children who shaped my life” delivered by Edward Timpson CBE KC

In this lecture, Edward will explore what it really means to put children first — and what it takes to give every child the best possible start in life. Drawing on the children and young people who have influenced his thinking throughout his own life and career, he will consider the importance of education, opportunity, strong relationships and high expectations, particularly for those facing disadvantage.

The lecture will look at the difference that effective policy and practice can make, and at how we can better understand and respond to what children need to fulfil their potential. Above all, it will reflect on how listening to children, believing in what they can achieve and putting their needs at the heart of decision-making can lead to better outcomes and lasting change.

Speaker Bio

Edward Timpson CBE KC is passionate about creating better opportunities for children and young people, particularly those who have faced disadvantage. Growing up in a family that fostered more than 80 children gave him a lifelong understanding of the difference that stable relationships, high expectations and the right support can make.

Edward served as Children’s Minister for five years, during which he championed reforms to improve the lives of children in care, care leavers and those with special educational needs. Since leaving Parliament, he has continued to focus on improving the lives of vulnerable children through charity leadership, public policy and system reform. He chaired Cafcass and the National Child Safeguarding Panel, led the independent Timpson Review of School Exclusions, and now chairs Frontline, the charity that recruits, develops and supports children’s social workers. He also serves on the boards of Coram and Care for Children and is a patron of The Difference.

Edward brings together lived experience, leadership and a deep commitment to practical change. He believes lasting improvement comes through strong relationships, ambitious expectations and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

About the Portal Trust

The Portal Trust, is a grant making charity providing funds to individuals and organisations to further the education of young people from inner London. We are a small team of ten staff, ten Trustees and a number of advisors and ambassadors who work together to make a meaningful education available to all.

Each year we bring our friends and partners – old and new - together for a lecture, kindly hosted in the auditorium at the Bayes Business School, to explore an important topic of the day, before a relaxed drinks and canapés reception.

We hope to see you there but do feel free to forward this invite to any colleagues you feel would be interested in joining us.