Early Years Insights

Watch the video version on YouTube! .

https://youtu.be/Fww0_Xg7lQw .

Oliver's Legacy, Part 2: Closing the EYFS Loopholes - Early Years Insights

Join Kathy Leatherbarrow for the continuation of a vital story with Lewis Steeper (The Oliver Steeper Foundation) and Laura Salmon (Banana Moon Franchise).

Lewis shares the successful legislative changes driven by the Foundation, focusing on mandatory pediatric first aid and improved food safety within the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage). Laura discusses how Banana Moon implements these safety measures and their partnership in distributing LifeVac devices. Lewis also reveals the profound personal experience of using a LifeVac to save his youngest son, Jake.

Key Discussion Points:

• EYFS Reform Victory: The achievement of forcing the hand of the DfE to close safety loopholes in the EYFS.
• Mandatory First Aid: The campaign to ensure all relevant staff hold up-to-date paediatric first aid certificates.
• Safer Eating Campaign: The shift to focusing on "Stage, not Age" for weaning, introducing essential weaning checklists.
• LifeVac Distribution: Banana Moon's "Big Moments, Bright Futures" campaign to supply all settings with LifeVac and portable travel kits .
• Personal Use: Lewis's powerful story of using a LifeVac on his son, Jake, highlighting the device's real-world necessity.
• Organ Donation: Lewis receives an update on Oliver's organ donation, finding peace in his legacy of saving lives.

Guests:

• Lewis Steeper – Founder of The Oliver Steeper Foundation
• Laura Salmon – Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office

Host:

• Kathy Leatherbarrow – Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions

How to Connect:

Find out more about the Foundation's mission and how to apply for a LifeVac: www.tosf.org.uk Connect with us on social media or send us an email: www.eden-ts.com [email protected]

#EarlyYearsInsights #OliverSteeperFoundation #EYFSSafety #LifeVac #ChildcareReform #PaediatricFirstAid #BananaMoon

Watch the video version on YouTube! .

https://youtu.be/h5FzZWbv6kA .

A Legacy of Safety: The Oliver Steeper Foundation - Early Years Insights

Join Kathy Leatherbarrow as she speaks with Lewis Steeper, founder of The Oliver Steeper Foundation, and Laura Salmon, Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise, to share a deeply personal story of resilience, and how one family turned tragedy into a national safety mission.

Lewis recounts the heartbreaking story of losing his son, Oliver, due to a choking incident at nine months old, and the subsequent founding of the Foundation. This episode highlights their incredible mission to provide life-saving anti-choking devices (LifeVac) to nurseries and the wider community, ensuring Oliver's legacy is one that saves children's lives.

Key Discussion Points:

• Oliver's Story: The devastating personal account of the choking incident and the difficult, complex journey that followed.
• A Safety Mission: The Foundation's formation and its goal of placing life-saving equipment in every UK nursery.
• The LifeVac Device: Understanding the anti-choking device as a crucial last resort when standard first aid has failed.
• Sector Collaboration: Highlighting the importance of partnerships, such as with Banana Moon and Eden, to boost child safety awareness.
• Grief to Action: The emotional challenge of converting personal tragedy into a focused public safety mission.
• Parental Support: Discussing the lack of formal support for self-employed parents and the need for better systems after child loss.

Guests

• Lewis Steeper – Founder of The Oliver Steeper Foundation
• Laura Salmon – Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office

Host

• Kathy Leatherbarrow – Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions

How to Connect:

To learn more about the Foundation or how your setting can receive a LifeVac device, please visit the Oliver Steeper Foundation website. Connect with us on social media or send us an email: www.eden-ts.com [email protected]

#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #OliverSteeperFoundation #ChildSafety #LifeVac #ChokingPrevention #NurserySafety #ParentalAdvocacy #EarlyYearsWellbeing

Watch the video version on YouTube! .

https://youtu.be/NuSmiHX27eU .

Apprenticeship to Manager: Building Early Years Leaders .

Join Kathy Leatherbarrow as she continues her discussion with Natalie Healey, Head of Operations, and Laura Salmon, Head of Early Years, from Banana Moon Franchise Support Office. This episode dives into the crucial role of early years apprenticeships in addressing the sector's recruitment crisis and building a clear, supportive career path from apprentice to nursery manager and beyond.

Key Discussion Points:

• The increasing importance of quality Early Years apprenticeships.
• The philosophy of 'grow your own talent' in solving the sector's recruitment crisis.
• Building a clear career pathway from apprentice to future leader and manager.
• Developing structured induction programmes that align curriculum and course content.
• The value of support networks, such as mentor groups and peer-to-peer sharing.
• Demonstrating the role is a fulfilling career path with potential for progression to business ownership.
• The essential link between Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and effective leadership.

Guests:

• Natalie Healey - Head of Operations at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office
• Laura Salmon - Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office

Host:

• Kathy Leatherbarrow - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions

How to Connect: We'd love to hear your experiences and insights on building career pathways in Early Years. Connect with us on social media or send us an email to share your thoughts and join the conversation: www.eden-ts.com

#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #Apprenticeships #EarlyYearsCareers #GrowYourOwnTalent #CPD #EarlyYearsLeaders #RecruitmentCrisis #WorkforceDevelopment

Thank you for listening to "Early Years Insights." Stay tuned for more essential discussions in early childhood development.

Watch the video version on YouTube! .

https://youtu.be/b0e4dDuvIJk .

EYFS Updates: Nurturing Our Whole Community .

In this special episode, we delve into the core of the new EYFS statutory framework, taking effect on 1st September 2025. This framework encourages a holistic approach to nurturing everyone within the Early Years setting, from children and staff to families. We cover essential and often-overlooked topics that contribute to a healthy, supportive community.

Key Discussion Points:

• Professional Curiosity: The importance of approaching 'whistle-blowing' and professional curiosity in a positive way.
• CCTV and Safety: We examine the role of CCTV in accident review and maintaining a secure environment.
• Sleep and Wellbeing: The conversation covers crucial sleep routines for both children and parents.
• Staff Wellbeing: Good sleep routines and a focus on overall wellbeing are vital for Early Years professionals.
• Generational Diversity: Embracing different generational work styles creates a more accommodating workplace.

Guests:

• Natalie Healey - Head of Operations at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office
• Laura Salmon - Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office

Host:

• Kathy Leatherbarrow - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions

How to Connect: We'd love to hear your thoughts on the new EYFS updates and what 'nurturing your community' means to you. Connect with us on social media or send us an email to share your experiences and insights: www.eden-ts.com

#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #EYFS2025 #EYFSupdates #StaffWellbeing #SleepRoutines #ProfessionalCuriosity #EarlyYearsCommunity #GenZ #EarlyYearsEducation

Thank you for listening to "Early Years Insights." Stay tuned for more essential discussions in early childhood development.

Watch the video version on YouTube! .

https://youtu.be/HcuF1XVl8ZQ .

Safeguarding, Welfare, and Male Practitioners .

Join Kathy Leatherbarrow for a crucial continuation of the conversation with Eden's Safeguarding and Welfare Officers, Sarah Baker and Beth Mincher. In this episode, the discussion shifts to an equally vital aspect of the Early Years sector: the role of men. They explore the importance of male practitioners and role models, and how to better support and encourage more men to join this incredibly rewarding profession.

Useful Health & Wellbeing Resources: https://bit.ly/EdenWellbeingResource

Key Discussion Points:

• The unique and valuable contribution male practitioners bring to Early Years settings.
• Challenging stereotypes and encouraging more men to consider a career in early childhood education.
• The positive impact of male role models on children's development and perceptions.
• How Eden Training Solutions supports and encourages male learners and apprentices in the Early Years sector.
• Addressing common misconceptions and barriers faced by men entering the profession.
• Fostering inclusive environments that welcome and retain male practitioners.
• The interconnectedness of safeguarding, welfare, and promoting diversity within the workforce.

Guests:

• Sarah Baker - Safeguarding and Welfare Officer at Eden Training Solutions
• Beth Mincher - Safeguarding and Welfare Officer at Eden Training Solutions

Host:

• Kathy Leatherbarrow - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions

How to Connect: We'd love to hear your experiences and insights on supporting and encouraging men in Early Years. Connect with us on social media or send us an email to share your thoughts and join the conversation: www.eden-ts.com

#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #MalePractitioners #MenInEarlyYears #EarlyYearsEducation #RoleModels #DiversityInEarlyYears #Safeguarding #Welfare #Inclusion

Thank you for listening to "Early Years Insights." Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes where we continue to explore essential topics in early childhood development.

Watch the video version on YouTube! .

https://youtu.be/eNiuRzVc7EQ .

Safeguarding and Welfare in Early Years .

Join Kathy Leatherbarrow as she speaks with Eden's dedicated Safeguarding and Welfare Officers, Sarah Baker and Beth Mincher. In this vital episode, they shine a light on the crucial, often behind-the-scenes, role they play in ensuring the well-being and safety of everyone within the Eden community.

Useful Health & Wellbeing Resources: https://bit.ly/EdenWellbeingResource

Key Discussion Points:

• Understanding the essential role of Safeguarding and Welfare Officers within Eden.
• How Sarah and Beth provide a confidential and supportive space for learners, apprentices, and all Eden team members to discuss challenges and concerns.
• The broad scope of support available, covering everything from personal well-being to safeguarding issues.
• The proactive approach to welfare and support at Eden Training Solutions.
• How to access the support offered by the Safeguarding and Welfare Officers.
• Emphasising that no challenge is too small or too big to discuss.

Guests:

• Sarah Baker - Safeguarding and Welfare Officer at Eden Training Solutions
• Beth Mincher - Safeguarding and Welfare Officer at Eden Training Solutions

Host:

• Kathy Leatherbarrow - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions

How to Connect: We'd love to hear your thoughts on safeguarding and welfare in early years settings. Connect with us on social media or send us an email to share your experiences and insights: www.eden-ts.com

#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #Safeguarding #Welfare #MentalHealth #Wellbeing #EarlyYearsProfessionals #SupportAndCare #ApprenticeshipSupport #LearnerWellbeing

Thank you for listening to "Early Years Insights." Join us next time for more essential discussions in early childhood development.

Watch the video version on YouTube! .

https://youtu.be/AQ4J5ZkcsHk .

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Cultivating the Nursery-Home Partnership .

Join Kathy Leatherbarrow as she explores the vital connection between nursery settings and families, and how a strong partnership can significantly benefit children's development and well-being. In this episode, Kathy delves into the key elements of successful collaboration between early years practitioners and parents, offering practical insights and strategies for building these crucial relationships.

Key Discussion Points:

• Why is a strong partnership between nursery and home so important for young children?
• Creating open and effective communication channels between practitioners and families.
• Strategies for involving parents in nursery life and their child's learning journey.
• Sharing information effectively: from daily updates to progress reports.
• Building trust and mutual understanding between nursery staff and parents.
• Addressing challenges and navigating differing perspectives in a collaborative way.
• The role of the nursery in supporting families and creating a welcoming environment.
• Practical ideas for joint activities and initiatives that bridge the gap between home and nursery.
• How a strong partnership contributes to children's confidence, security, and overall development.

Host:

Kathy Leatherbarrow - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions

Guests:

Abbie Meikle - Deputy Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Catterick Garrison

Jayne Garbutt - Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Catterick Garrison

We believe that strong partnerships between nursery and home are fundamental to a child's early years success. Share your experiences and tips for fostering these connections! Connect with us on social media or send us an email to share your thoughts and join the conversation: www.eden-ts.com

#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #NurseryPartnership #HomeNurseryLink #EarlyYearsEducation #FamilyEngagement #ChildDevelopment #EarlyLearning #WorkingTogether

Thank you for listening to "Early Years Insights." We hope this episode provides valuable insights into building and nurturing effective partnerships between nursery and home. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes where we continue to explore essential topics in early childhood development.

Watch the video version on YouTube! .

https://youtu.be/mRGITFjQqbQ .

Navigating School Readiness .

Join Kathy Leatherbarrow as she delves into the crucial topic of school readiness with Lauren Fisher, Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Rothwell. Together, they explore what school readiness truly means within the UK Early Years context, and how practitioners can effectively support children's transition to formal education.

Key Discussion Points:

• What constitutes "school readiness" in the current UK educational landscape?
• The essential skills and developmental milestones to focus on in Early Years settings.
• Practical strategies for fostering school readiness through play-based learning.
• The importance of collaboration with parents and schools in supporting children's transition.
• Addressing individual needs and ensuring inclusive practices for all children.
• How to build children's confidence and emotional resilience for the move to Reception.
• The role of the Early Years curriculum in preparing children for formal education.
• Overcoming common challenges in supporting school readiness.

Guest:

• Lauren Fisher - Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Rothwell

Host:

• Kathy Leatherbarrow - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions

How to Connect:

We'd love to hear your experiences and insights on school readiness. Connect with us on social media or send us an email to share your thoughts and join the conversation: www.eden-ts.com

#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #SchoolReadiness #EarlyYearsEducation #ReceptionReady #UKeducation #ChildDevelopment #EarlyLearning #TransitionToSchool

Thank you for listening to "Early Years Insights." Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes where we continue to explore essential topics in early childhood development.

Watch the video version on YouTube!

https://youtu.be/q9rkndXCMwY

Wellbeing Matters: Supporting Early Years Professionals

Join Kathy Leatherbarrow as she discusses the critical importance of staff wellbeing in early years settings with Lauren Fisher, Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Rothwell, Abbie Meikle, Deputy Manager at Banana Moon Catterick Garrison, and Jayne Garbutt, Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Catterick Garrison. They explore the challenges and strategies for maintaining a positive and supportive work environment, and how this directly impacts the children in their care.

Key Discussion Points:

• What are the key factors that contribute to staff wellbeing in an early years setting?
• How does staff wellbeing impact the quality of care and education provided to children?
• Practical strategies for managing stress and preventing burnout among early years practitioners.
• The importance of creating a supportive and collaborative team culture.
• The role of leadership in promoting and prioritising staff wellbeing.
• The importance of self care, and how to implement this in a busy nursery environment.
• How to recognise when a member of staff needs support.

Guests:

• Lauren Fisher - Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Rothwell
• Abbie Meikle - Deputy Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Catterick Garrison
• Jayne Garbutt - Nursery Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Catterick Garrison

Host:

• Kathy Leatherbarrow - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions

How to Connect:

We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences regarding staff wellbeing in early years. Connect with us on social media or send us an email to share your insights and join the conversation: www.eden-ts.com

#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #StaffWellbeing #EarlyYearsEducation #NurseryLife #TeamSupport #SelfCare #EarlyYearsProfessionals #WellbeingMatters

Thank you for listening to “Early Years Insights.” Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes where we continue to explore essential topics in early childhood development.

The Impact of Positive Behaviour in Early Years

Join Kathy Leatherbarrow as she chats with Alan Kennedy, an experienced child hypnotherapist and Louise Scott, the early years training coordinator at Shining Stars Nursery. Alan and Louise share their insights into the profound impact of positive behaviour in early childhood, exploring effective strategies, real-life examples, and the long-term benefits for children's development.

Key Discussion Points:

• What constitutes positive behaviour in an early years setting?
• How does positive behaviour from educators shape children's emotional and social development?
• Practical strategies for promoting and reinforcing positive behaviour in the classroom.
• The role of observation and understanding in addressing challenging behaviours.
• The long-term benefits of a positive behaviour approach for children's learning and well-being.
• Discussing how lifestyle choices can impact behaviour.

Guests:

• Alan Kennedy - Child Hypnotherapist
• Louise Scott - Training Coordinator at Shining Stars Nursery

Host:

• Kathy Leatherbarrow - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions

How to Connect:

We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences regarding the impact of positive behaviour in early years. Connect with us on social media or send us an email to share your insights and join the conversation: www.eden-ts.com

#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #PositiveBehaviour #EarlyYearsEducation #ChildDevelopment #BehaviourManagement #ClassroomStrategies #SocialEmotionalLearning #ImpactOfBehaviour

Thank you for listening to “Early Years Insights.” Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes where we continue to explore essential topics in early childhood development.