In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast Hosts Tatia Singleton and Emma Minchella are joined by entrepreneur, nursery owner, and expert Early Years consultant, Sian Douglas. Together we discuss what it means to be a strategic senior leader, in schools and nurseries, and how to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.

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In this New Year episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, hosts Emma Minchella and Tatia Singleton focus on setting clear, purposeful goals for the year ahead.

They discuss why goal setting is important at the start of a new year, how to create realistic and meaningful objectives, and ways listeners can stay motivated and accountable as they work towards personal and professional development goals throughout the year.

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Take time to reflect on how you keep well - physically, mentally and emotionally. You will explore practical ideas for managing your energy, protecting your boundaries and staying grounded.

Whether you are leading others or looking after yourself, this episode encourages small, intentional actions that support long-term wellbeing and resilience.

Listener Discretion Advised:

This podcast discusses topics related to managing wellbeing. The content may be sensitive or triggering for some listeners. Please take care while listening and seek support if needed.

Resources

​​​Keeping well - PowerPoint

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Explore what it means to coach with confidence in this reflective conversation with EMCC's Global Coach of the Year, Clare Smale.

You will consider how toolkits can support (not define) your practice, how supervision strengthens your self-awareness and why embracing the belief that “I am enough” is central to knowing who you are as a coach.

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In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, hosts Emma Minchella and Tatia Singleton come together for a festive special dedicated to apprentice well-being!

As the year draws to a close, they explore the unique pressures apprentices face during the holiday season and share practical, uplifting strategies for staying balanced, motivated, and mindful.

Learn how to take control of your time with practical strategies you can apply straight away: The Eisenhower Matrix, MITs and The 4D Model.

You will explore time blocking, the 80% rule and ways to reduce interruptions and task switching - helping you focus, protect your energy and work more effectively as a busy leader or team member.

Time Tactics - PowerPoint

In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, hosts Emma Minchella, Tatia Singleton, and Supriya Menon are joined by Kym Lewis, Partnership Manager at the Association of Apprentices (AoA). Together, they discuss how the AoA supports apprentices throughout their journey — from helping them make the most of off-the-job training opportunities to building professional networks, developing key employability skills, and fostering a strong sense of community.

Tune in to discover how apprentices can access valuable resources and connections through the AoA to enhance both their learning experience and career development.

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In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, hosts Emma Minchella, Tatia Singleton, and Supriya Menon are joined by Jamel Carly, an inspiring advocate for equality and diversity in early years and education. Together, they explore what true inclusion means, why diversity matters at every level of education, and how we can all take practical steps to create more inclusive environments.

Explore how emotional intelligence (EQ) shapes effective leadership. You will reflect on the balance between empathy and expectations, uncover personal bias and learn practical strategies to develop your EQ.

From self-awareness to active listening, this episode helps you strengthen workplace relationships and lead with authenticity and emotional clarity.

Emotional intelligence (EQ) - participant PowerPoint

Emotional intelligence (EQ) - participant resource pack

Discover how to strengthen your problem-solving behaviours by exploring practical models like the ‘5 Whys’ and ‘Fishbone Diagram’. Reflect on root cause analysis, future focus and positive approaches to challenges, helping you find sustainable solutions in your work, your leadership and your everyday life.

Problem-solving behaviours - participant PowerPoint

Problem-solving behaviours - participant resource pack