Early Excellence Podcast

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 Links

• Explore what International Services we can offer
• Read San Silvestre's Case Study from the Visit

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 future projects and sharing best practice in early years education.

Episode Links

• Shop our Outdoor Resource Sets and Solutions
• Arrange an Outdoor Environment Consultation
• Explore Outdoor CPD

Re-release: Originally aired on 7 Oct 2022

This 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 Olds.

Episode Links

• Order The Secret Lives of 4, 5 and 6 Year Olds book
• Watch Sam’s TED Talk on How the Modern World is Changing Young Children 
• Explore our CPD Training

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 highlights the significance of creating a child-centred space, the impact of schematic play, and the lessons learned in providing high-quality education for young children.

Episode Links

• Explore our Dedicated 2-4yrs Page
• Discover Expert-Curated Resources for 2-3yrs

Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 13 Sep 2024

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 Links

• Watch Judith Ish-Horowicz presenting a TEDx Talk about her work
• Find out more about Apples and Honey Nightingale CIC

Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 17 Jan 2025

The brilliant Ben Kingston-Hughes joins us this week as we explore the power of joy when working with young children.

Episode Links

• Order Your Copy of Ben’s Book "Why Children Need Joy"
• Join us for our Inspiring Leaders Conference

Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 31 Jan 2025

This week we’re joined by Dr. Jools Page as we explore her highly important research on professional love within EYFS settings.

Episode Links

• Watch the Video "Professional Love: The Dance of Reciprocity."
• Read the Blog "What is Professional Love?"
• Explore EYFS CPD Training

Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 21 Feb 2025

We welcome Dr Karen Boardman from Edge Hill University to the podcast this week as we discuss all things early literacy.

Episode Links

• Explore Early Excellence Training on Strengthening Early Literacy in the EYFS
• Find Out More on the Work of Dr Karen Boardman
• Discover our Range of Literacy Resources

Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 7 Mar 2025

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 Links

• Explore The Smallest Things Charity website
• Access Free Online Training from PRISM (Premature Infants’ Skills in Mathematics)
• Discover the Prem Aware Award and its Free Resources

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 Links

• Explore the Unplugged Early Years Website
• Shop Early Excellence's Resources
• Discover Inspirational CPD Training