Early Excellence Podcast
A podcast for early years and Key Stage 1 educators, covering best practice, provision, and resourcing for Early Years environments. It also provides updates and reviews from Ofsted and the Department for Education, offering practical guidance for teachers and practitioners.
Episodes
Bringing Puppets to Life with Emma Boor
Emma Boor from Wild Boor Ideas joins us this week as we discuss the use of puppets and drama with young children.
A Close Look at Physical development in the EYFS with Helen Buteux
Occupational Therapist Helen Buteux joins us this week on the podcast. She shares insights on physical development in the EYFS, the importance of foundational skills, and how occupational therapy can support children and families. This conversation highlights practical advice for parents and educators to foster healthy development from pregnancy through preschool.Episode LinksRead our Blog on The
A Focus on Research Informed SEND Practice with Becky Lindsay
Becky Lindsay joins us this week on the podcast as we discuss child-centred, research informed SEND practice.Episode LinksMeet the Needs of Children with SEND in the Early Years
The New Birth to 5 Matters Document with Nancy Stewart
Nancy Stewart joins us for this week’s episode of the podcast as we explore the new Birth to 5 Matters document following its official launch in July. We explore the new features included in the materials and also revisit the key principles which remain so central.Episode Links Find out more about Birth to 5 Matters and download the materials
The Power of Storytelling with Jules Pottle
Join us as Jules Pottle, an expert in storytelling and education, shares innovative methods to integrate storytelling into teaching science, drama, and literacy. Discover how engaging narratives can transform learning experiences for children from early years to primary school.Episode LinksStorytelling in the Blocks and Small World AreaDownload our free Blocks Area Planning Guide
Effective Assessment in the EYFS with Stephen Kilgour
Stephen Kilgour joins us as we discuss the key principles of effective assessment in the EYFS.Episode LinksFind Out About our Early Excellence Assessment SuiteJoin Us for Training as we Explore Effective Practice in the Reception YearExplore Effective Continuous Provision Planning
Beach Schools with Rhianne Stephens
Could regular trips to the beach be one of the most powerful things a setting can offer young children?Re-release: Originally aired on 14 Feb 2025Rhianne Stephens from Ely and Caerau Integrated Children's Centre in Cardiff joins us to talk about their year-round beach visits and the impact connecting with nature has had on the children in their care.Episode LinksDiscover our Range of Outdoor Resou
Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child with Alison Clark
In a world that keeps speeding up, what does it mean to slow down — and why might that be exactly what young children need?Re-release: Originally aired on 5 May 2023Alison Clark joins us to discuss her book Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child, making the case for slow pedagogies in early childhood education and exploring the pressures that work against them.Episode LinksWatch the Slow Pedagogy:
Professional Love in the EYFS with Dr Jools Page
What does it really mean to love the children in your care — and why does it matter so much in early years settings?Re-release: Originally aired on 31 Jan 2025Dr Jools Page joins us to explore her research on professional love in EYFS settings, and what it looks like when practitioners get this right.Episode LinksWatch the Video "Professional Love: The Dance of Reciprocity"Read the Blog "What is P
Young and Old Together: Exploring Intergenerational Practice with Judith Ish-Horowicz
What happens when young children and older generations share the same space — and the same daily life?Re-release: Originally aired on 13 Sep 2024Judith Ish-Horowicz, co-founder and director of the UK's first intergenerational nursery, talks us through the inspiring work at Apples and Honey Nightingale and the benefits it brings for everyone involved.Episode LinksWatch Judith Ish-Horowicz presentin
Navigating Ofsted Inspections: Insights from a Pilot School with Leanne Foster
What's it actually like to go through a pilot Ofsted inspection — and what did the focus on EYFS look like in practice?Re-release: Originally aired on 30 Jan 2026Leanne Foster shares her first-hand experience of a pilot Ofsted inspection, including the conversations her team had with inspectors and what schools can take from the process.Episode LinksExplore more from Ofsted at our Senior Leader Br
Navigating Change in Mixed-Age Classes: Challenges for Schools and Leaders with Anne Brass and Kate Gingles
Mixed-age classes can work brilliantly — but what happens when change is driven by necessity rather than vision?Re-release: Originally aired on 13 Feb 2026Anne Brass and Kate Gingles join us to discuss the complexities schools face with mixed-age classes, from establishing a clear guiding purpose to navigating structural change with limited guidance available.Episode LinksOrder our New Guide to Mi
Visual Arts in Early Childhood Settings with Dr Gai Lindsay
What can visual art experiences really unlock for young children — and how do you make the most of them in practice?Re-release: Originally aired on 27 Mar 2026Dr Gai Lindsay joins us to explore the rich learning opportunities that visual art experiences offer young children, with practical guidance for teachers and practitioners on bringing creativity to life in their settings.Episode LinksExplore
Going Screen Free in the EYFS with Lucy Fox
Lucy Fox from Stoke Primary School in Coventry joins us for this week’s episode, as we explore the impact of screen-free practice in the EYFS.Episode Links Read the Blog: Block Play Alongside Small World ResourcesRead the Blog: Navigating the Sea of Talk - why language-rich environments go beyond labels and key wordsExplore language-rich environment resources on the Inspiration Hub App
Closing the Communication Gap: Early Talk for York with Rachel Shearer and Martin Cumming
What does it look like when a whole city gets behind children's communication and language?Re-release: Originally aired on 17 Apr 2026Rachel Shearer and Martin Cumming join us to explore Early Talk for York — a citywide initiative aimed at closing the communication and language gap in young children, and what it takes to make that kind of joined-up approach work.Episode LinksExplore the Early Talk
The Power of Role Play with Becky Hoare
Role play is our focus this week as we welcome Becky Hoare to the podcast. Becky is a Primary Teacher and the Founder of Pop Up Play Village Ltd. We discuss children’s natural desire to role play what they see in the world around them. There is lots of key advice here too for developing effective and inspiring domestic role play in your setting.Episode LinksRead the Blog "Exploring Powerful Learni
The Wonder of Storytelling with Ed Finch
We’re joined on the podcast this week by Ed Finch, a Headteacher with a passion for storytelling. We have a great chat about our natural desire to tell stories and the impact of this on our lives. We also explore how storytelling provides wonderfully engaging learning opportunities for our youngest children.Episode LinksRead the Blog - Unlocking the Power of Block Play in the EYFSListen to this Ep
Making Space for Play - A Conversation with Eugene Minogue
Play isn't a luxury — so why does it keep getting pushed to the margins?Re-release: Originally aired on 20 Feb 2026Eugene Minogue, Interim Executive Director at Play England, joins us to discuss why play matters so much for children's development, the barriers standing in its way, and what a genuine cultural shift around play would look like.Episode LinksExplore Play England's Official WebsiteList
Exploring Transition and Pace with Dixie-Louise Dexter
Dixie-Louise Dexter joins us for this week’s episode as we explore effective transition processes and the value of slowing down the pace.Episode LinksExplore our Transition to Year 1 BlogDiscover our EYFS CPD & Training ProgrammeTransform your Learning Environment
Premature Birth, Development and Early Support with Caroline Woodman
What do educators really need to know about supporting children born prematurely?Re-release: Originally aired on 7 Mar 2025Caroline Woodman joins us this week as we explore the impact of premature birth on children's development. Caroline shares her own story and that of her son, Reuben, who was born prematurely. She emphasises the importance of early intervention, understanding developmental chal
Anji Inspired Play with Patana School in Bangkok
Gemma Wales and Sarah Gaughan from Patana School in Bangkok join us for this week’s episode. We discuss how their early years practice has been inspired by Anji Play and discuss key aspects such as the theory, resources, the practice and the impact on the young learners.Episode LinksDiscover our support for International Schools and SettingsExplore more on Anji Play
Creativity, Culture and the Child with Gemma Shadid
What does child-centred creative practice really look like in the early years?Re-release: Originally aired on 9 May 2025In this episode, Gemma Shadid joins us to explore the power of child-centred creative practice in the EYFS. We discuss the Reggio Emilia approach, the role of quality materials in art, and how sensory experiences and cultural diversity shape children's learning and identity.Episo
The Can Do Approach to Supporting Speech, Language and Communication Skills with Joanne Jones
Speech Therapist and online educator Joanne Jones joins us on the podcast this week. We discuss positive approaches to supporting speech, language and communication skills in young children.Episode LinksExplore language-rich environment resources on the Inspiration Hub AppDevelop your understanding of language and communication with Let's Get Talking in the EYFSRead the Blog Navigating the Sea of
Developing an Inspiring Forest Schools Site with Charnwood Nursery and Preschool Group
Listen in as we’re joined by Jess Watson and Claire Curtis from the Charnwood Nursery and Preschool Group and discuss all things forest schools. We explore the development of their forest school site, the wonderfully rich experiences provided and the impact on their children.Episode LinksFind out more about the forest school on their instagram pages @_beyondtheforest @charnwood_nursery_preschoolDi
The Power of a Great Room Plan with Holme Valley Primary School
What does a transformative learning environment actually look like when a room plan really comes together? Re-release: Originally aired on 16 May 2025In this episode, we chat with Rachel Stephenson and Sue Lonsdale from Holme Valley Primary School in Scunthorpe. They share their experience of developing inspirational learning environments and reflect on the impact this had during their recent Ofst
Early Talk for York with Rachel Shearer and Martin Cumming
This week, we’re joined by Rachel Shearer and Martin Cumming as we discuss a citywide initiative in York aimed at closing the communication and language gap in young children.Episode LinksExplore the Early Talk for York InitiativeRead about Developing Language in the Early YearsDiscover our Communication and Language CPD
Getting Two Year Old Practice Right with Dulwich College in Shanghai
What does truly high-quality education for two year olds actually look like in practice?Re-release: Originally aired on 5 Sep 2025In this episode, Andy Burt speaks with Gemma Stanton and Kate Kelly from Dulwich College Shanghai about their experiences and insights into two-year-old practice in early years education. They discuss the challenges of establishing a nurturing environment for toddlers,
The Outdoor Classroom with Kathryn Solly
What does creating an inspiring outdoor space actually look like in early years settings?Re-release: Originally aired on 16 Jan 2026In this episode, we explore the key features of effective practice outdoors with the inspirational Kathryn Solly. As part of the conversation, we discuss the importance of creating a positive culture towards outdoor learning and explore a broad range of rich outdoor e
Visual Arts in Early Childhood Settings with Dr Gai Lindsay
Dr Gai Lindsay joins us this week on the podcast as we explore the rich learning opportunities provided by visual art experiences. We discuss the wonderful nature of creative experiences for young children and offer practical guidance for teachers and practitioners.Episode LinksExplore Dr Gai Lindsay’s websiteOrder a copy of her book on AmazonDiscover Early Excellence resources to facilitate creat
Exploring BBC Bitesize
In this episode, Jonathan Tremewan and Jess Denning from the BBC Bitesize team join us as we explore their recent projects and resources to inspire young learners.Episode LinksExplore BBC BitesizeDiscover Early Excellences Free Learning Resources
Birth to 5 Matters with Nancy Stewart
In this, our 200th Episode, we’re joined by Nancy Stewart. We explore Nancy’s career at the forefront of early years education and also the new updated version of Birth to 5 Matters.Episode LinksExplore the Birth to 5 Matters GuidanceRead the Survey ResponsesInvest in the Continuous Provision GuidesDiscover the EExREC Baseline Assessment Tool
Wonderwood: Outdoor Learning in the Early Years with Claire Underwood
What happens when you take early years learning outside the classroom — and into the woods?Re-release: Originally aired on 24 Oct 2025Claire Underwood shares her journey in early years education, from teaching in affluent areas to leading outdoor learning at Hopping Hill School. She introduces Wonderwood, a nature-based space that inspires creativity and connection, and reflects on the importance
Designing Inspirational Learning Opportunities with Emma Weston
Emma Weston is our guest for this week’s episode of the podcast. Emma is a Learning Designer at Verso International School in Bangkok. As part of the conversation, Emma takes us on a tour of their inspirational learning environments and we also explore how Emma and her team follow children’s interests, and plan fascinating projects.Episode LinksDiscover our support for International Schools &
Exploring the Vital Importance of Play with Eugene Minogue, Interim Executive Director, Play England
This week, we’re joined by Eugene Minogue, Interim Executive Director at Play England. We discuss the vital importance of play and the barriers to it within society. We also explore what needs to happen to create a positive cultural shift around play.Episode LinksExplore Play England's Official WebsiteListen to our Episode with Ruth Lue-Quee
Navigating Change in Mixed-Age Classes: Challenges for Schools and Leaders
In this episode, Anne Brass and Kate Gingles join us to discuss mixed-age classes and the complexities schools face when change is driven by necessity rather than vision. The conversation explores the difficulty of establishing a clear guiding purpose, the pressures that can lead to structural change, and the limited guidance available for schools navigating transformation in mixed-age classrooms.
Effective Outdoor Learning in the EYFS – Key Principles with Evan McCormick
Practical guidance for planning, resourcing, and delivering high-quality outdoor learning in the EYFS.Re-release: Originally aired on 15 Nov 2024In this episode, Evan McCormick explores the key principles of effective outdoor learning in the early years. We discuss the importance of thoughtful organisation, purposeful resourcing, and careful planning, alongside the vital role of the adult in suppo
Navigating Ofsted Inspections: Insights from a Pilot School
This week, we’re joined by Leanne Foster as we discuss her experience of a pilot Ofsted inspection at her school. We discuss the focus on the EYFS and the conversations that Leanne and her team had with the inspectors as part of the process.Episode LinksExplore more from Ofsted at our Senior Leader BriefingStay up to date with our Early Years Update Blogs
The International Language of Learning
In this week’s episode we meet with Charlotte Knight- Benjafield and Rob Spillane from Wellington College in Shanghai. We discuss their bilingual and immersive curriculum and how they use project based learning to fully embed effective learning characteristics.Episode LinksDiscover our support for International Schools and SettingsExplore more about Wellington College
Creating Inspiring Outdoor Spaces with Kathryn Solly
In this episode, we explore the key features of effective practice outdoors with the inspirational Kathryn Solly. As part of the conversation, we discuss the importance of creating a positive culture towards outdoor learning and explore a broad range of rich outdoor experiences.Episode LinksDiscover our brand new Outdoor RangeWatch the Outdoor Range launch videoExplore the Outdoor RoadshowOrder Ka
The Transformative Power of Forest Schools with Lana Webster
In this episode, Lana Webster shares her experience of Forest School and outdoor learning, exploring how child-led experiences in nature support wellbeing, skill development, and meaningful learning. Lana reflects on creating safe, magical outdoor environments, working with families, and the positive impact outdoor provision has on both children and staff.Episode LinksDiscover our brand new Outdoo
Playful Potty Learning with Nurse Rebecca Mottram
In this week’s episode, we’re joined by children’s Nurse and potty training expert Rebecca Mottram. Rebecca discusses the different stages of the potty training process and offers key advice for Teachers, Practitioners and parents.Episode LinksExplore Rebecca's Website to Find Out MoreDownload the FREE Supporting Children’s Toileting Needs in Early Years Settings Guidance for Preschools and Nurser
The Role of Play in Key Stage One Education with Ruth Lue-Quee
Ruth Lue-Quee joins us this week to discuss her campaign to make play and continuous provision statutory in England’s Key Stage One Curriculum. As part of the conversation, we explore how learning through play is vital for young children’s learning beyond the EYFS.Episode LinksFind out More and Sign the Petition To Make Play and Continuous Provision statutory in England's Key Stage 1 CurriculumExp
The Muddy Puddle Teacher's Journey with Sarah Seaman
Discover how outdoor learning can transform teaching and inspire young minds.In this episode, Sarah Seaman, also known as The Muddy Puddle Teacher, shares her journey from traditional classroom teaching to pioneering outdoor learning. With over 17 years of experience, Sarah discusses the benefits of nature-based education, offers practical tips for teachers, and introduces her new K
Exploring Powerful Learning Through Home Corner Role Play with Amanda Belbin
Practical ways to enrich learning and meaningful talk through home corner role play in the early years.Re-release: Originally aired on 1 Apr 2022In this episode, Andy chats with Amanda Belbin from Bincombe Valley Primary School in Weymouth. Amanda shares how purposeful enhancements and high-quality interactions have made Home Corner Role Play a central part of their early years
100 Years of Nursery World with Karen Faux
In this engaging conversation, Karen Faux, the editor of Nursery World, discusses the magazine's significant role in early childhood education over the past 100 years. She reflects on the evolution of the publication, the societal changes it has witnessed, and the influential figures who have contributed to its content. The discussion also highlights the upcoming anniversary edition, which aims to
Understanding Cultural Capital in the EYFS with Nicky Turner
Practical ways to recognise and build on every child’s cultural capital in the EYFS.Re-release: Originally aired on 3 Mar 2023 What does ‘cultural capital’ really mean in the early years? Nicky Turner from Astrea Multi-Academy Trust joins us to discuss how educators can celebrate children’s experiences, backgrounds, and interests — and use them to shape meaningful learning every day.Episode LinksR
Teaching Beyond the Classroom: Lessons from Wonderwood with Claire Underwood
Claire Underwood shares her journey in early years education, from teaching in affluent areas to leading outdoor learning at Hopping Hill School. She introduces Wonderwood, a nature-based space that inspires creativity and connection, and reflects on the importance of adult engagement, teacher wellbeing, and belonging in early education.Episode LinksJoin the New Outdoor Roadshow at a Location Near
Why Rich Experiences in Early Childhood are the Key to Brain Development with Ben Kingston-Hughes
Re-release: Originally aired on 17 Feb 2023This week, we’re joined on the podcast by Ben Kingston-Hughes. Ben is an author, trainer, keynote speaker and also the Managing Director of Inspired Children. Our conversation takes many twists and turns but focuses on the vital importance of early childhood.Episode LinksJoin our "The Child in Mind" ConferenceOrder a copy of Ben's BookExplore our Training
From Both Sides: Exploring Key SEND Advice with Jenny Nechvatal
This week we talk to Jenny Nechvatal about her experience as a parent of children with autism. She shares key advice for effective practice when working with children with SEND.Episode LinksDiscover SEND Training and Support to Guide YouExplore the Innovative Disability Solutions WebsiteOrder Embracing Disability in Early Childhood on Amazon
An In-Depth Look at Physical Development with Helen Hawes
Re-release: Originally aired on 18 Nov 2022As one of the prime areas of learning, physical development underpins children’s overall learning and development. Yet how often do we consider children’s physical development in real depth? In this week’s episode, we talk with Helen Hawes about her support work in schools and how small changes to our practice can have a big impact for our children.Episod
Fostering Independence in Early Years Education with San Silvestre School in Peru
The team from San Silvestre School in Lima, Peru, shares their journey in early years education, exploring continuous provision, fostering independence, and creating nurturing environments that inspire inquiry, collaboration, and lifelong learning.Episode LinksExplore what International Services we can offerRead San Silvestre's Case Study from the Visit
Transforming Education Through Outdoor Learning with Helen Quincey
In this episode, Andy Burt and Helen Quincey discuss the value of outdoor learning and creating educational outdoor spaces. Helen shares her early years experience and passion for designing environments that support children’s development. They explore the process of building these spaces, their impact on engagement and learning, and the role of collaboration and community. Helen also reflects on
The Secret Lives of Young Learners with Professor Sam Wass
Re-release: Originally aired on 7 Oct 2022This week, we’re joined by Professor Sam Wass from The University of East London. Sam is a child psychologist and neuroscientist specialising in concentration and stress in young children. You will probably remember Sam as the on-screen child psychologist in the popular Channel 4 programmes The Secret Lives of 4 Year Olds and The Secret Lives of 5 Year Old
Transforming Two-Year-Old Education with Dulwich College in Shanghai
In this podcast episode, Andy Burt speaks with Gemma Stanton and Kate Kelly from Dulwich College Shanghai about their experiences and insights into two-year-old practice in early years education. They discuss the challenges faced in establishing a nurturing environment for toddlers, the importance of understanding child development, and the role of parents in the learning process. The conversation
Young and Old Together: Exploring Intergenerational Practice with Judith Ish-Horowicz
Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 13 Sep 2024Judith Ish-Horowicz, the co-founder and director of the UK’s first intergenerational nursery, joins us for our first episode of the new school year. As part of our chat, Judith tells us all about the inspirational multi-generational work at Apples and Honey Nightingale and the benefits for all involved.Episode LinksWatch Judith Ish-Horowicz pr
Why Children Need Joy with Ben Kingston-Hughes
Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 17 Jan 2025The brilliant Ben Kingston-Hughes joins us this week as we explore the power of joy when working with young children.Episode LinksOrder Your Copy of Ben’s Book "Why Children Need Joy"Join us for our Inspiring Leaders Conference
Professional Love in the EYFS with Dr Jools Page
Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 31 Jan 2025This week we’re joined by Dr. Jools Page as we explore her highly important research on professional love within EYFS settings.Episode LinksWatch the Video "Professional Love: The Dance of Reciprocity."Read the Blog "What is Professional Love?"Explore EYFS CPD Training
Exploring Early Literacy with Karen Boardman
Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 21 Feb 2025We welcome Dr Karen Boardman from Edge Hill University to the podcast this week as we discuss all things early literacy.Episode LinksExplore Early Excellence Training on Strengthening Early Literacy in the EYFSFind Out More on the Work of Dr Karen BoardmanDiscover our Range of Literacy Resources
Understanding the Impact of Premature Birth with Caroline Woodman
Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 7 Mar 2025Caroline Woodman joins us this week as we explore the impact of premature birth on children’s development. Caroline shares her own story and that of her son, Reuben, who was born prematurely. She emphasizes the importance of early intervention, understanding developmental challenges, and the need for educational professionals to be aware of the uniq
The Unplugged Early Years Movement
In this episode, Andy Burt talks with Karen Snook and Mienna Jones about the Unplugged Early Years movement, exploring how to reconnect children with real-world experiences amid growing tech use. They discuss early childhood development, the effects of technology on parenting, and the importance of meaningful, present learning in nurseries.Episode LinksExplore the Unplugged Early Years WebsiteShop
Self-Regulation at the Heart of Effective Practice with Rawmarsh Nursery School
Re-release: Originally aired on 20 Oct 2023Does your practice reflect the value of self-regulation? In this week’s episode, we’re joined by members of the senior team from Rawmarsh Nursery School in Rotherham as we explore the vital importance of nurturing self-regulation skills. Episode LinksExplore Continuous Provision Inside OutShop our Complete Classroom Solutions
Putting the Characteristics of Effective Learning at the Heart of the Practice With Kirsty Page
In this episode, Kirsty Page, deputy head at Gampton CofE Primary, shares insights from her early years experience - exploring the characteristics of effective learning, the importance of character development, supportive environments, smooth transitions to Key Stage 1, and evolving assessment practices at ACE Academy.Episode linksExplore our Blog on the Importance of the Characteristics of Effect
Key SEND Questions Answered with Louise Herbert and Gareth Shaw
Re-release: Originally aired on 1 Nov 2024Louise Herbert and Gareth Shaw join us this week as we offer valuable SEND advice and answer key questions to support practice.Episode LinksAccess our Free SEND Framework MaterialsJoin us for our New Course on Strengthening SEND Practice
The Reggio Emilia Approach with Hayley Peacock
In this conversation, Hayley Peacock, founder of Little Barn Owls Nurseries, shares her transformative journey in early years education, inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach. She discusses the importance of play, the role of educators, and the need for a shift in perspective regarding children's capabilities. Hayley reflects on her experiences, the challenges of implementing change, and her aspi
Developing Rich Opportunities for Maths in the EYFS with Newcastle High School for Girls
Re-release: Originally aired on 4 Nov 2022Mixing the Mathematical Milkshake! In this week’s episode, we’re joined by Kate Gingles and the EYFS team at Newcastle High School for Girls. As part of our chat, we talk about the team’s key focus on developing enjoyable and rich mathematical learning opportunities for their Nursery and Reception children.Episode LinksFind out more about our Developi
The Power of Going Home Discovery Bags
Andy Burt, Lizzie Battersby, and Nova Robinson discuss Discovery Bags - open-ended resources designed to boost early childhood language and communication through play. They highlight the importance of parental involvement, the impact of technology on language skills, and strategies to build trust and confidence in families to support children's learning.Episode LinksShop the Going Home Discov
Redesigning EYFS Environments with Emma Hudson
Re-release: Originally aired on 26 Jan 2024Emma Hudson, Early Years Lead at Willerby Carr Lane Primary School, discusses the impact of the redesigned EYFS environment on children and staff. She highlights the importance of stripping back and refining provision to focus on core continuous provision and interactions. Emma also shares the school's approach to peer coaching and the ongoing process of
Introducing EExREC: Bridging Gaps in Reception Baseline Assessment
Andy Burt and Sarah Carey explore the challenges of assessment in early years education, highlighting the importance of child development and effective practices. Sarah introduces EExREC, a new tool designed to support educators and improve understanding of young children’s needs.Episode LinksExplore the EExREC Baseline Assessment Tool
Helicopter Stories in Action with Trisha Lee
Re-release: Originally aired on 11 Nov 2022In this episode, we talk to Trisha Lee all about the importance of nurturing and celebrating children’s storytelling. Trisha tells us all about her work in schools and also about her new book, The Growth of a Storyteller, which explores the practice of using helicopter stories to value, nurture and inspire young learners.Episode LinksOrder your copy of Th
When a Room Plan Comes Together!
This week we chat with Rachel Stephenson and Sue Lonsdale from Holme Valley Primary School in Scunthorpe. We discuss their recent Ofsted inspection and the development of their inspirational learning environments.Episode LinksFind out more about our Room Planning ServiceShop our Complete Classroom Solutions
Exploring Child-Centred Creative Practice with Gemma Shadid
Gemma Shadid joins us this week to explore the power of child-centred creative practice in the EYFS. We discuss the Reggio Emilia approach, the role of quality materials in art, and how sensory experiences and cultural diversity shape children’s learning and identity.Episode Links Transform your Learning Environment with our Room Planning Service.Shop our NEW Range of Sensory ResourcesExplore
A Guide to SEND in the Early Years with Kerry Murphy
Re-release: Originally aired on 6 May 2022. This week, Andy interviews Kerry Murphy, Early Years Lecturer and Consultant, about her new book A Guide to SEND in the Early Years. Andy and Kerry discuss and reflect on EYFS practice, how best to support children with SEND and also challenge some common misconceptions.Episode LinksOrder Kerry’s book: A Guide to SEND in the Early YearsExplore our dedica
Navigating Speech and Language Challenges with Georgina Durrant
Georgina Durrant shares her journey from teacher to SEN advocate, stressing the need for better training, play in learning, and strong parent-teacher collaboration. She discusses supporting speech and language needs, highlighting communication, sensory experiences, and understanding behaviour as communication.Episode LinksExplore our dedicated SEND page with Training, Resources and GuidanceDiscove
Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child with Alison Clark
Re-release: Originally aired on 5 May 2023. We talk to Alison Clark about her recent book Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child. As part of the conversation, Alison discusses the pressures within Early Childhood Education and makes the case for slow pedagogies when working with young children.Episode LinksWatch the low Pedagogy-Making Time for Children’s Learning and Development Video ClipOr
How the National Gallery Inspires Young Minds with Alison Wain
Alison Wain from the National Gallery explores the role of creativity in children’s learning, how young learner engage with art differently than adults, and the gallery’s efforts to make art education accessible. She also shares details about the new family learning centre and the gallery’s 200th anniversary celebrations, including free programs for children and families.Episode LinksExplore the N
Exploring Early Literacy and Phonics Skills with Nicky Turner
Re-release: Originally aired on 3 Nov 2023. Nikki Turner, from the Astrea Multi-Academy Trust, joins us to discuss early literacy, emphasizing storytelling, music, and physical development as key to learning. The discussion highlights the importance of rich language exposure and a holistic teaching approach.Episode LinksBook your Place on Early Excellence TrainingVisit the Early Excellence StudioL
Story Steps: The Power of Storytelling with Trisha Lee
Trisha Lee joins us to explore the power of storytelling and poetry in early childhood education, the role of improvisation, and the importance of a rich story diet. Plus, she shares exciting news about her new program, Story Steps!Episode LinksDiscover Trisha Lee's Story Steps ProgrammeSupport Reading and Storytelling Skills at Home with the NEW Going Home Discovery BagsJoin our CPD Course on Str
Celebrating Outdoor Learning with Sarah Watkins
Re-release: Originally aired on 8 Dec 2023. This episode explores the benefits of outdoor learning in early childhood education, from mental health and development to fostering independence and community. Sarah Watkins discusses the challenges of reclaiming outdoor spaces, balancing risk, and ensuring older students don’t miss out on these vital experiences.Episode LinksOrder your copy of our Earl
Understanding the Impact of Premature Birth with Caroline Woodman
Caroline Woodman joins us this week as we explore the impact of premature birth on children’s development. Caroline shares her own story and that of her son, Reuben, who was born prematurely. She emphasizes the importance of early intervention, understanding developmental challenges, and the need for educational professionals to be aware of the unique needs of premature children. Caroline also hig
Physical Engagement with Dr Simone Tomaz
Dr Simone Tomaz joins us this week as we explore the importance of physical opportunities for young children and how these experiences support other areas of development. The discussion also covers the balance between sleep, screen time and physical engagement in young children.Episode LinksFind Out About the Work of Dr Simone TomazExplore How to Provide Big Physical Experiences Outdoors With Our
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