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Interdisciplinary Academic Conference 2026
How do different disciplines understand, respond to, and learn from failure? This inaugural conference brings together alumni, academics and leading professionals from Medicine & Healthcare, Law, Politics & Public Policy, Engineering & Technology, and Economics, Finance & Business to explore how failure, disaster and near misses shape innovation, safety, leadership, ethics and decision-making.
Under the theme “Failure, Disaster, and Near Misses – An Interdisciplinary Conversation,” the event examines how different fields interpret and learn from failure, generating insights that transcend traditional boundaries, foster collaboration and promote reflective professional practice across sectors.
Through keynote talks, panel discussions, interactive sessions and informal networking, the conference offers a unique opportunity to learn across disciplines, exchange perspectives and build meaningful professional connections. Whether you are a seasoned alumnus ready to share your insights, early in your career and seeking support, or anywhere in between, this conference reaffirms that Reading School remains a place for everyone to learn, connect, and grow together.
Date: Friday 23rd October 2026
Venue: Reading School, Erleigh Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 5LW
Conference Fee: £37 per person – includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and refreshments throughout the day.
Accommodation
We have secured special rates at the Novotel Reading Centre (25b Friar Street, Reading, RG1 1DP) for conference attendees, recognising that some guests may be travelling from further afield, including overseas. To book, please email the hotel directly at h5432@accor.com and quote the reference code SCHOOL26. The rate is valid for 4 nights from 22nd October 2026.
Rates include breakfast, VAT, local fees, and are offered without commission. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and guests also enjoy full access to the leisure centre, including the sauna, steam room, swimming pool and gym.
Programme Highlights:
The event programme, including speaker information, will be shared with you in advance of the event.
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Parking Information
Parking is available onsite. If you are a blue badge holder or require any specific support with parking, please email events@reading-school.co.uk.
Photography & videography
By attending this event/activity, you consent to the capture of photography and videography for the purpose of marketing and historical archiving by Reading School. These images and recordings may be used in printed materials (e.g., the school prospectus), on the school website, and on official school social media channels.
Reading School processes personal data in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR). Your data will be handled securely and will not be used for commercial purposes.
If you do not wish to be photographed or filmed, or if you would like to withdraw your consent at any time, please contact Events Team at events@reading-school-co.uk.
For any queries relating to event logistics, please contact Mrs Chong at events@reading-school.co.uk.
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