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.

Resources

Emotional intelligence (EQ) - participant PowerPoint

Emotional intelligence (EQ) - participant resource pack

Find out more about our Apprenticeships programmes:

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships

Best Practice Network: Apprenticeships Podcast

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Inclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN Podcast

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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.

Resources

Problem-solving behaviours - participant PowerPoint

Problem-solving behaviours - participant resource pack

Find out more about our Apprenticeships programmes:

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships

Best Practice Network: Apprenticeships Podcast

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Inclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN Podcast

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Best Practice Network Social Media:

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In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast Host Emma Minchella, Ant Welch and Supriya Menon are joined by the co-owner of paints pots nurseries, Chair of Early Years Academy and longtime advocate for increasing male representation in the early years David Wright. Together we discuss the importance of male representation in early years and education and how to consciously support males joining the sector.

BPN Boost

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Find out more about our Apprenticeships programmes:

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships

Best Practice Network: Apprenticeships Podcast

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Inclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN Podcast

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Best Practice Network Social Media:

Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, host Emma Minchella is joined by Deborah Brown, Director of Grief Information for Teachers and Services, to explore the sensitive but vital topic of grief in early years and education. Together, they discuss how bereavement, separation, loss, and change impact children, and the role educators play in supporting them through these experiences.

BPN Boost

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/boost

Find out more about our Apprenticeships programmes:

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships

Best Practice Network: Apprenticeships Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Inclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN Podcast

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Best Practice Network Social Media:

Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

The third episode of our leadership and education mini-series features Franzie Mueller, A Level 3 EYE Room Lead at Kido where she discusses her apprenticeship journey into leadership.

BPN Boost

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/boost

Find out more about our Apprenticeships programmes:

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships

Best Practice Network: Apprenticeships Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Inclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Best Practice Network Social Media:

Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

The second episode of our leadership and education mini-series features Iona Taylor, A level 5 EYLP Room Lead at Snapdragon’s, as she discusses her apprenticeship journey into leadership!

BPN Boost

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/boost

Find out more about our Apprenticeships programmes:

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships

Best Practice Network: Apprenticeships Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Inclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Best Practice Network Social Media:

Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

The first episode of our leadership and education mini-series features Sophie Hayter, Qualification Lead at Kido, as she discusses pathways into leadership and the role apprenticeships can play in supporting this journey.

BPN Boost

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/boost

Find out more about our Apprenticeships programmes:

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships

Best Practice Network: Apprenticeships Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Inclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN Podcast

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Best Practice Network Social Media:

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Learn how to manage conflict with confidence and compassion. You will explore practical tools, emotional insight and leadership behaviours that support healthy resolution. Discover how to 'disagree agreeably', separate the issue from the person and create a culture where conflict is approached with structure, self-awareness and shared language.

Resources

Managing Conflict - PowerPoint

Managing Conflict - Participant Resource Pack

Find out more about our Apprenticeships programmes:

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships

Best Practice Network: Apprenticeships Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Inclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN Podcast

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Best Practice Network Social Media:

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In this episode we are joined by SEND specialist Becky Lacey to explore what it really means to support children and young people with additional needs. Whether you're in early years, a mainstream classroom, or on your apprenticeship journey, Becky shares powerful insights on inclusive practice, common misconceptions, and how to build the confidence and mindset to make a real difference. Plus, practical advice for managing your own wellbeing and advocating for support as a learner.

BPN Boost

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/boost

Find out more about our Apprenticeships programmes:

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships

Best Practice Network: Apprenticeships Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Inclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Best Practice Network Social Media:

Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

Explore what it truly means to act with social responsibility in your setting. You will reflect on everyday actions, challenge assumptions and consider how your leadership decisions impact others. Discover practical ideas to embed collective values, influence culture and model the behaviours you want to see - starting with yourself.

Resources

Social responsibility - PowerPoint

Social responsibility - participant resource pack

Find out more about our Apprenticeships programmes:

https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships

Best Practice Network: Apprenticeships Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Inclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN Podcast

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTube

Best Practice Network Social Media:

Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn