Early Excellence Podcast

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

Re-release: Originally aired on 20 Oct 2023

Does 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 Links

• Explore Continuous Provision Inside Out
• Shop our Complete Classroom Solutions

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 links

• Explore our Blog on the Importance of the Characteristics of Effective Learning
• Discover our CPD Training

Re-release: Originally aired on 1 Nov 2024

Louise Herbert and Gareth Shaw join us this week as we offer valuable SEND advice and answer key questions to support practice.

Episode Links

• Access our Free SEND Framework Materials
• Join us for our New Course on Strengthening SEND Practice

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 aspirations for scaling her vision in education

Episode Links

• Explore our Play Based Resources
• Discover CPD Training

Re-release: Originally aired on 4 Nov 2022

Mixing 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 Links

• Find out more about our Developing Young Mathematicians EYFS & KS1 Programme
• Read our blog: Mathematical Musings by Jude Twani
• Shop our Maths Resources for EYFS & KS1

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 Links

• Shop the Going Home Discovery Bag Range

Re-release: Originally aired on 26 Jan 2024

Emma 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 Links

• Discover our Room Planning Service
• Explore our Free Audit for your Indoor Areas
• Watch 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 Links

• Explore the EExREC Baseline Assessment Tool

Re-release: Originally aired on 11 Nov 2022

In 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 Links

• Order your copy of The Growth of a Storyteller
• Explore our Themed Role Play Resources