Next Step Exhibitions unveils first venture

Next Step Exhibitions has launched its first event, The Next Step: Independent Schools Show, to be held at The Battersea Evolution, on 2-3 November 2007.

Next Step Exhibitions was formed earlier this year by dynamic young entrepreneur David Wellesley-Wesley, backed by Ben and Kate Goldsmith, has launched its first event, The Next Step: Independent Schools Show.

The Next Step will bring together over 70 of the country's leading private schools (from nursery through to 6th Form tutorials) in a stimulating environment which will help parents to make an informed and considered decision about the future education of their children.

Amongst the many schools already on board are Stowe, Cheltenham Ladies College, Wellington, Kings Canterbury, Lancing College, Eastbourne College, North Bridge House, Summer Fields and Kensington Prep.

Wellesley-Wesley, who boarded at Ashdown House from the age of seven and went on to King's Canterbury, said: "Research showed there is a gap in the market that parents needed filling - this exhibition is the solution to the eternal problem of choosing the right school; it is also the opportunity to do away with the stuffy image of independent schools with a fresh and modern event in the ideal London venue".

An Education Theatre with respected speakers such as Dr Anthony F Seldon (political commentator, Master of Wellington College and Tony Blair biographer), Professor Chris Woodhead, Stowe's Headmaster Dr Anthony Wallersteiner, and Mrs Vicky Tuck, Principal of Cheltenham Ladies College, will prove an invaluable resource and exciting debating forum for the inquisitive parent.

Wellesley-Wesley has a wealth of experience in the exhibition industry, having worked at Single Market Events and BBC Haymarket Exhibitions prior to establishing Next Step Exhibitions.

Sponsored by private bank Coutts and Co and with a significant marketing spend which has led to the appointment of Brand Development and Marketing agency Ricochet Design and PR agency Red Hot, the two day Next Step Show is assured of a high profile and significant footfall.

Ben Goldsmith said: "As the parents of two young children, this exhibition seemed to be a logical and convenient alternative to looking at glossy brochures and to traipsing all over the country visiting schools.

"For this reason Kate and I decided to back David in starting this exciting venture".

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