Early Excellence Podcast

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 Discovery Bag Range

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 skill progression within each area of provision.Episode LinksDiscover our Room Planning ServiceExplore our Free Audit for your Indoor AreasWatch the Free Planning your Environment Webinar

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

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 The Growth of a StorytellerExplore our Themed Role Play Resources

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

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 the EYFS Framework and its Guidance for Early Years Practice.

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 dedicated page all about SEND in the Early YearsShop our Sensory Learning Resource Collections

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 GuidanceDiscover Georgina's SEN Blog pageShop Georgina's SEND Books

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 ClipOrder a copy of Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried ChildBook your Place on Early Excellence TrainingVisit the Early Excellence Studio

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 National Gallery's exhibitions, events, and educational programsLearn more about the National Gallery's 200th anniversary celebrationsFind art resources and guidance from Early Excellence

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 StudioListen to our Podcast Episode on Brilliant Books and Poems to Inspire Young Writers

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 Strengthening Early Literacy in the EYFS

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 Early Excellence Guide to Outdoor ProvisionRead our Early Excellence Blog - The Fantastic Possibilities of Learning Outdoors in Cold, Wet and Windy WeatherExplore our range of Outdoor Resources

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 highlights the resources available for families and educators to support children like Reuben, advocating for greater awareness and understanding of the long-term effects of prematurity.Episode LinksExplore The Smallest Things Charity websiteAccess Free Online Training from PRISM (Premature Infants' Skills in Mathematics)Discover the Prem Aware Award and its Free Resources

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 "Let's Step Outside in the EYFS" CPD Training

We 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

This week, we're joined by Rhianne Stephens from Ely and Caerau Integrated Children's Centre in Cardiff. We discuss the setting's regular visits to the beach throughout the year and the fantastic impact of connecting with nature.Episode LinksJoin our Upcoming Inspiring Leaders ConferenceDiscover our Range of Outdoor Resources

This week we're joined by Jayne Hosmer from the charity Pets as Therapy as we explore the impact of pets on our youngest children.Episode LinksFind out more about the work of Pets as Therapy

This 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

This week, Sara Adams returns to give us an update on her time as an Early Career Teacher working in Nursery. As part of the episode, we discuss the diverse needs of the children, reflective practice and the wonder of mathematics in the EYFS.Episode LinksJoin our Free ECT Webinar Listen to Sara's first ECT EpisodeNew to the EYFS? Join This Key Online Training PackageHave you Booked your Place at One of our Inspiring Leaders Conference Events Yet?

The 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

Anna Wells joins us this week as we explore inspirational practice from a senior leader's perspective. We discuss observation and monitoring and the key markers in terms of effective EYFS practice.Episode LinksBook your place on the Inspiring Leaders ConferenceExplore Training for Senior Leaders

In this week's episode, we're joined by Rhyannan Porter and Evie Askew from Mayfield School in Cumbria. We discuss how well-planned continuous provision has been developed to help meet the diverse range of children's needs at the school.Episode LinksFind out more about Early Excellence support with SENDBook your place on Early Excellence CPD TrainingTransform your Learning Environment with Early Excellence

We're joined by drama specialist and author, Sam Marsden, this week as we explore the wonderful possibilities of drama for early years children. We discuss the holistic nature of drama and the great links to communication and language, problem solving and creativity. Sam also shares simple ideas to help you get started with drama in the EYFS.Episode LinksOrder a copy of Sam Marsden's book - Drama Games for Early Years: (4-7 Years) (A Pocketful of Drama)Discover our EYFS Training ProgrammeJoin us at one of our Touring EYFS Roadshow Events Near You

We're joined by Llewella Ivins this week as we explore how to use floorbooks and displays effectively to capture and celebrate learning.Episode LinksDiscover our EYFS Training ProgrammeJoin us at one of our Touring EYFS Roadshow Events Near You

Evan McCormick joins us this week as we explore the key principles of effective practice outdoors. As part of the episode, we discuss the high level of organisation needed outdoors as well as resourcing, planning and the role of the adult.Episode LinksIs Outdoor Learning a key area for development at your school or setting? Find Out About our TrainingOur Team of Curriculum Consultants are available to support you in developing your outdoor space. Find Out About our Outdoor Planning ServiceListen To Evan's First Podcast Episode

Charlotte Kelly joins us for this week's podcast episode as we reflect on a period of curriculum development at the school. As part of our chat, we explore the changes to the learning environment , well-planned resourcing and a focus on progression in the EYFS. We're proud to say that Oldfield Brow are now one of our Early Excellence Partner Schools, find out more about your nearest partner school events by following the link below29/01/2025 - Let's Step Outside in the EYFS - Oldfield BrowEpisode LinksDiscover More Events Near YouJoin our Touring EYFS Roadshow

Louise 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

This week we're joined by Nova Robinson as we explore what we mean by effective enhancements and reflect on how we make this work within a key stage one context.Episode LinksListen to our Podcast Episode - Getting Started with Continuous Provision in Key Stage 1Access Early Excellence Key Stage 1 trainingDownload our Free Key Stage 1 Audits and Planning Guides

Author and illustrator Pippa Pixley joins us for this week's episode as we discuss the importance of creative experiences, interactive storytelling and nurturing a love of nature.Episode LinksFind Out More about Pippa's WorkBook Your Place on one of our Early Excellence Roadshow Events

Dr Natalie Canning joins us for this week's episode of the podcast as we discuss her key research on empowering young learners in the EYFS.Episode LinksFind out More on Dr Natalie Canning's Research on Empowering Young LearnersRead our Blog on Nurturing Children's Self-Confidence and Security in the EYFSBook your Place on an Early Excellence Roadshow Event

We're joined by Nova Robinson this week as we discuss the challenges but also the benefits of age classes. We explore the importance of a clear understanding of child development and offer key advice for meeting the needs of all of the children.Episode LinksBook your place on our Support for Teachers with Mixed Age Classes Webinar Series

The first few weeks are such a busy yet crucial time in the EYFS year. Llewella Ivins joins us this week as we put together a checklist to make sure we haven't missed anything!Episode LinksDownload our EYFS checklist for ECTsAccess our Indoor Provision Audit Tool

This week, we're joined by Anna-Marie Bevan, the Head of Ely and Caerau Integrated Children's Centre in Cardiff. We discuss the journey of development at the setting, the rich experiences provided and the importance of striking the right balance between child initiated and adult-guided learning.Episode LinksExplore our upcoming CPDJoin our EYFS Roadshow

Judith 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 presenting a TEDx Talk about her workFind out more about Apples and Honey Nightingale CIC

2024 Summer Break Re-Release - Episode 85This week we're joined by Clare King, one of our Curriculum Consultants at Early Excellence. We discuss the key principles of effective continuous provision and how to put these principles into practice.Take a virtual classroom tour of the Early Excellence learning environmentsFind out more about our Inside Out suite of support materialsDownload our free continuous provision audit tool

2024 Summer Break Re-Release - Episode 52In this week's episode, Andy and Llewella explore the increasing popularity of tuff spot trays in early years settings. They discuss how Tuff Spot trays are used, look closely at some of the potential drawbacks of being over reliant on tray based activities and ask the question: Is it time to move away from the Tuff Spot tray?Watch our free Guide to Continuous Provision webinarRead our Blog Building on Children's Interests in the EYFSExplore our EYFS Training Programme

2024 Summer Break Re-Release - Episode 90Does 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. Access training on Child Development including Self-RegulationBecome an Early Excellence Partner SchoolExplore Continuous Provision Inside Out

2024 Summer Break Re-Release - Episode 112Catherine Laing, Senior Lecturer in Developmental Linguistics, rejoins us this week for a close look at speech and language research. Book your Place on our Let's Get Talking Training CourseListen to our Earlier Episode with Catherine Laing "Exploring Early Speech and Language Development"Explore our Free Continuous Provision Guides and Audits

2024 Summer Break Re-Release - Episode 92Nicky Turner, from the Astrea Multi-Academy Trust, joins us in our new Early Excellence studio as we explore the vital importance of supporting early literacy and phonics skills effectively.Book your Place on Early Excellence TrainingVisit our New Early Excellence StudioListen to our Podcast Episode on Brilliant Books and Poems to Inspire Young Writers

2024 Summer Break Re-Release - Episode 105This week, we visit Whitefield Primary School in Liverpool and take a tour of their inspirational EYFS learning environmentsWatch our Free Planning your Environment WebinarShop our Inspirational ResourcesDownload our free Audits and Planning Guides

2024 Summer Break Re-Release - Episode 106With more schools recognising the growing interest in continuous provision for Key Stage 1 education, Andy Burt and Nova Robinson delve into its implementation. From understanding the needs of Key Stage 1 children to navigating transitions from early years, this conversation offers invaluable insights into initiating this transformative approach. Join us as we uncover the practical steps, challenges, and resources needed to embark on the continuous provision journey, drawing upon the expertise shared in this enlightening discussion.Join us on one of our KS1 Roadshow eventsOrder our KS1 Guide to Continuous ProvisionExplore the Ideas and Inspirations section of our website

In our last new episode of the school year, we find out about a great project! The 50 Things to Do Before You're 5 Project aims to provide a list of experiences for young children which are not to be missed. Christian Bunting and Frank Norris join us as we explore the beginnings of the project, the range of experiences and the impact on young children.Explore our CPD Training for you and your TeamFind out more about our FREE Room Planning ServicePurchase our Continuous Provision Guides

Dora Rackham from City Academy, Whitehawk, near Brighton joins us for this week's episode as we explore the progression of writing skills. Dora has developed a tool to track the small steps involved in developing writing skills and joins us to share how it is used and the impact on the practice.Explore our Mark Making to Writing Course Listen to our Podcast "Exploring Early Literacy and Phonics Skills"Book a Place on our Strengthening Early Literacy in the EYFS Course

We welcome Evan McCormick to the studio for this week's podcast as we explore key strategies to support children's communication and language skills. As part of the conversation, we discuss our use of routines, plan-do-review cycles and effective adult interactions. We also consider the specific needs of some children including those with English as an additional language and also children who have developmental delays.Find out More About our Training on Effective Adult Interactions and Communication and Language DevelopmentRead our Blog on Navigating the Sea of Talk Listen to our Podcast Episode with Catherine Laing - Exploring Early Speech and Language Development

Nova Robinson catches up with the team at Quinton Primary School in Birmingham for this week's episode. They discuss the implementation of an effective approach to Key Stage One practice based on an enabling learning environment, strong adult-child learning relationships and smoother transitions from the EYFS.Watch our Free Plan Your Learning Environment KS1 webinarLast Chance to attend the KS1 Roadshow in Doncaster or KentPurchase our KS1 Continuous Provision GuidesDownload Free KS1 Planning Guides and Audit Tools

This week, we're joined by Natalie Bignell from Kidstart Nursery in Manchester. We discuss the key transition procedures in place at the nursery and the positive impact for children, the families and staff team. Listen to our recent episode "Effective Transition with Phil Armstrong"Read our Blog on "Exploring Powerful Learning Through Domestic Role Play"Watch our Free Room Planning WebinarExplore EYFS CPD for You and Your Team

Outdoor storage is the focus this week as we're joined by our very own Matthew Sayer. We discuss the importance of high levels of organisation outdoors and offer key advice on storage sheds, labelling and the role of the adult. Download our Free Outdoor AuditDownload a Free Outdoor Planning GuideOrder a copy of our Guide to Outdoor ProvisionBook Your Place on One of our Outdoor Training Courses

This week, Nova Robinson interviews Jude Arkwright and Jane Godfrey from St Michael's School in Wiltshire. They discuss the school's approach to continuous provision in Key Stage 1 and the impact it has on children's learning and well-being.Explore our FREE KS1 Room Planning WebinarVisit St Michaels Website to find out more

Early Excellence Curriculum Consultant, Matthew Sayer, joins us for this week's episode of the podcast as we explore the wonderful possibilities of muddy play. As part of our chat, we discuss how to get the most out of your mud kitchen area, which resources should be available and how to manage the space effectively. Get Set for Outdoor Learning! Watch our Free Training VideoBook a Place our Outdoor Webinar Training Read our Blog on Exploring Outdoors in Cold, Wet and Windy Weather

This week, we're joined by Phil Armstrong from the Early Excellence Curriculum Team as we explore effective transition processes within the EYFS. Read our Blog all About Effective Transition to Year 1Listen to The Podcast Episode "5 Things to Remember in September"Access our EYFS Training