Early Excellence Podcast

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 Links

• Find out more about our Room Planning Service
• Shop 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 Resources
• Explore 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 Links

• Order Kerry’s book: A Guide to SEND in the Early Years
• Explore our dedicated page all about SEND in the Early Years
• Shop 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 Links

• Explore our dedicated SEND page with Training, Resources and Guidance
• Discover Georgina's SEN Blog page
• Shop 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 Links

• Watch the low Pedagogy-Making Time for Children’s Learning and Development Video Clip
• Order a copy of Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child
• Book your Place on Early Excellence Training
• Visit 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 Links

• Explore the National Gallery’s exhibitions, events, and educational programs
• Learn more about the National Gallery’s 200th anniversary celebrations
• Find 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 Links

• Book your Place on Early Excellence Training
• Visit the Early Excellence Studio
• Listen 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 Links

Discover Trisha Lee's Story Steps Programme

Support Reading and Storytelling Skills at Home with the NEW Going Home Discovery Bags

Join 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 Links

• Order your copy of our Early Excellence Guide to Outdoor Provision
• Read our Early Excellence Blog - The Fantastic Possibilities of Learning Outdoors in Cold, Wet and Windy Weather
• Explore 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 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