Norland expertise recognised on international stage at GESS Saudi Arabia
30 September 2026
Norland strengthened its international presence this week as Professor Mandy Edmond, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and Andrew Elias, International Development Lead, spoke at GESS Saudi Arabia 2026, while the university was also shortlisted in the prestigious GESS Awards.
Professor Edmond delivered a session titled Brain Architects, not Babysitters: why the earliest years matter most. The presentation explored the critical role of early childhood education in shaping lifelong learning and examined how specialist early years expertise can strengthen international school settings, highlighting the Kingdom’s ambitions for its youngest citizens and their families in its Vision 2030.
Drawing on Norland’s journey from its founding in 1892 to becoming the world’s first university dedicated to early childhood, the session highlighted the practitioners, leadership and philosophy required to deliver high-quality early years provision.
Professor Edmond also explored the wider benefits of investing in early childhood education, from supporting children’s development and strengthening family relationships to enhancing educational outcomes across whole-school communities.
Norland has also been shortlisted in the Early Years Resource/Equipment Supplier of the Year category at the 13th Annual GESS Awards. The awards celebrate excellence across the education sector and recognise organisations and individuals making a significant contribution to teaching and learning worldwide.
Professor Edmond said: “It was a privilege to share Norland’s expertise with education professionals from across the region and beyond. Early childhood is the foundation of lifelong learning, and it is encouraging to see growing recognition of the importance of specialist knowledge and high-quality provision for our youngest learners.
“Being shortlisted for a GESS Award alongside speaking at the conference reflects Norland’s commitment to advancing early childhood education internationally and supporting educators, leaders and organisations to provide the very best start for children.”
GESS Saudi Arabia brings together more than 23,000 education professionals and visitors from 47 countries, providing a platform for educators, leaders and innovators to share ideas and explore developments in teaching and learning.
The GESS Awards ceremony will take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 10 to 12 November 2026.
