The CIPD Student Conference this March attracted record numbers. Nearly 1,200 CIPD members attended on the day, making it our most successful conference ever for aspiring people professionals. Those who couldn’t make it can catch up on the CIPD website. 

Exclusive to CIPD members, the Student Conference takes place each March and is held online to accommodate a global audience. At this year’s event, an impressive line-up of speakers and panel discussions gave them valuable insight into the future of work and the evolving role of the profession, while showcasing how CIPD membership supports students throughout their professional journey. 

Equipping students for success in the ever-changing world of work 

The free, annual event is designed to give student CIPD members extra support in their studies and professional development. Through a series of engaging sessions designed to equip them with practical knowledge and insights, the conference offered in-depth guidance on the CIPD Profession Map, networking strategies and navigating early career challenges. 

“The conference inspired me to take a more proactive approach to my career development. I’m now more engaged with the HR community and excited to apply the insights I gained.” 

Patricia Catto, MSc Human Resource Management student

In the opening keynote session, CIPD Chief Executive Peter Cheese reflected on the impact of economic pressures and artificial intelligence (AI) on the profession. He also emphasised the need for people professionals to be adaptable and continuously develop and assess their skills to stay relevant. Miriam Stephens, Head of Organisation Assessment and CPD at the CIPD, covered how HR professionals can use the CIPD Profession Map to regularly assess their skills and develop a clear path to success. 

There were also several panel discussions, including one that focused on ‘Securing your first role in HR’. The energetic conversation featured insights from industry experts on job search strategies, standing out in interviews and the value of networking. In another session, a panel of experts explored the profession's growth over the past decade and discussed current challenges and future opportunities, including how the profession might evolve in the coming years.  

To close the conference, Dr. Daniel Hulme, Chief AI Officer at WPP, gave a thought-provoking talk on AI’s evolving role in business and society. Attendees came away with a framework for understanding AI and an awareness of the challenges and opportunities it presents to unlock creativity within organisations.

“This event helped me explore the challenges and opportunities in the future of work, while also deepening my understanding of the profession.” 

Alejandra Campos, conference attendee

A long-term career partner for people professionals 

In a world of work that never stands still, experts in people, work and change are key, and it’s never been a more exciting time to join the profession. CIPD Student Membership is for those who want to demonstrate their commitment to their professional future. It offers CIPD support throughout your studies and works alongside CIPD qualifications to put you on the path to professional recognition.  

Student members are equipped for success with access to practical and insightful content, study guides and tips for assessment. As a member, you’re also part of a vibrant community where you can network and learn from the experience of senior professionals and connect with fellow Student Members for friendly support.  

The people professionals that make the greatest impact are those with the capability, confidence and credibility to drive change. After completing your studies, you’ll be eligible to upgrade to Foundation or Associate Membership, giving you a globally recognised badge of professionalism that employers increasingly expect to see. The CIPD is a trusted career partner for more than 162,000 people professionals worldwide. We inspire and support them to make the biggest impact in their workplaces and the wider work of work.  

“The record attendance at the conference demonstrates how committed our student members are to their professional development. We’re proud to be a trusted partner for people professionals at the start of their careers and beyond.” 

Oli Howard, Head of Membership, CIPD

Looking ahead to 2026 

The CIPD Student Conference is our flagship event for student members, providing valuable opportunities for learning and networking. If you’re a member and you missed this year’s conference, you can catch up with the conference recordings 

We’re committed to making continual improvements and next year’s conference promises to build on this year’s huge success. Look out for more information. 

In the meantime, make the most of your student membership by: 

  • Using our trusted, evidence-based resources 
  • Connecting with other members through our online student community 
  • Exploring your career goals with our member mentoring programme. 

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Championing better work and working lives

At the CIPD, we champion better work and working lives. We help organisations to thrive by focusing on their people, supporting economies and society for the future. We lead debate as the voice for everyone wanting a better world of work. 

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