Are you still caught up in the myth of "school readiness" and wondering if you're focusing on the right things for your young learners?

If you’ve ever felt the pressure to ensure children are ready for school through academic skills like writing their names or learning the alphabet, this episode is for you. We’re challenging the traditional view and exploring what truly sets children up for success.

Within this episode, you will...

• Discover essential skills like independence, communication, and resilience that truly prepare children for school.
• Learn practical ways to embed early literacy and numeracy through play without overwhelming children.
• Understand how to foster confidence and emotional resilience in young learners, setting them up for success in school and beyond.

Tune in now to hear how you can better support children's transition to school by focusing on what truly matters for their growth and development! Sign up to our School Bound Superheroes training, https://www.jigsawearlyyearsconsultancy.com/product/school-bound-superheroes-empowering-children-for-their-next-adventure/

When was the last time you actually read the EYFS statutory framework rather than just filing it away?

Many early years professionals treat the EYFS as a checklist rather than a living, breathing framework that shapes daily practice. However, understanding it fully is key to leading your team confidently and being inspection-ready.

Within this episode, you will...

• Discover how to embed the four guiding principles of the EYFS into everyday practice.

• Learn what Ofsted really wants to see when they ask about your curriculum.

• Gain practical strategies to help your staff talk confidently about their key children's learning.

Hit play now to refresh your EYFS knowledge and ensure you're using it as a tool for quality, not just compliance! Download the Statutory Framework, https://www.jigsawearlyyearsconsultancy.com/product/early-years-statutory-framework/

Are you tired of jumping through endless hoops just to keep your early years setting afloat?

The ever-changing funding rules and inconsistent local authority guidelines are making it harder than ever for providers to stay sustainable. But what if there was a way to challenge the system and demand real change?

Within this episode, you will...

• Discover how Early Years Voice is taking legal action to fight for fair funding and consistency across the sector.

• Learn why the current government policies are failing providers and what needs to change.

• Find out how you can get involved and make your voice heard in this crucial movement.

Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation, hit play now and be part of the change that early years providers desperately need! Get in touch with Early Years Voice, https://earlyyearsvoice.org Or join the Early Years Voice Facebook Group, https://www.facebook.com/groups/earlyyearsvoicemembers

Are private and voluntary nurseries being sidelined by the government’s push for school-based early years education?

If you're an early years provider, you might be feeling frustrated by the Department for Education’s latest campaign. With school nurseries being marketed as the "gold standard," private and voluntary providers are being positioned as second best. But is that really the full picture?

Within this episode, you will...

• Understand the deeper implications of the government's messaging and what it means for the future of early years education.

• Discover why private, voluntary, and independent nurseries play a vital role in preparing children, not just for school, but for life.

• Gain the confidence to challenge the narrative and advocate for the value of your setting.

Hit play now to hear the passionate truth behind this debate and why your voice in the sector matters more than ever! For resources to support you on your early years journey, visit, www.jigsawearlyyearsconsultancy.com  Follow us on Facebook, @JigsawEYC Follow us on Instagram, @jigsaw.earlyyears Follow us on Tiktok, @JigsawEYC

Do you have any burning questions about early years settings, inspections, or quality improvement? You’re not alone—let’s get them answered!

In this episode, we’re exploring real questions from early years professionals like you. From opening a new setting to understanding Ofsted’s latest changes, we’re tackling the topics that matter most to your practice.

Within this episode, you will...

• Hear expert answers to common challenges in the early years sector.
• Gain practical insights to help you navigate inspections and compliance.
• Get clarity on key topics like market research, report cards, and curriculum delivery.

Hit play now to get the answers you’ve been looking for—your next big early years breakthrough could be one question away! If you have any questions then you would like answered on a future episode, please let us know by e-mailing [email protected]  For resources to support you on your early years journey, visit, www.jigsawearlyyearsconsultancy.com  Follow us on Facebook, @JigsawEYC Follow us on Instagram, @jigsaw.earlyyears Follow us on Tiktok, @JigsawEYC

Are you feeling burnt out by endless paperwork and shifting policies in your early years setting?

It’s easy to get lost in the daily grind and forget to celebrate the excellence happening around you. But what if you could refocus on what truly matters, nurture a thriving environment, and empower your team to grow together?

In this episode, you’ll discover how to:

• Recognise and celebrate the excellence already happening in your setting.
• Equip yourself with real-life strategies to embed excellence in your practice.
• Reignite your passion and motivation for early years education through a practical and supportive program.

Listen now to find out how you can access a free 10-week program designed to transform your setting and spark real change! Download our Early Years Excellence Freebie, https://impact.jigsawearlyyearsconsultancy.com/10-weeks-to-early-years-excellence/

Should young children be given real responsibilities like setting the table or sweeping the floor? Some say it's too much, but what if it’s exactly what they need?

In a world where early years settings often focus on Pinterest-perfect activities, we might be overlooking one of the most powerful learning tools: everyday tasks. Encouraging children to take on real jobs can build independence, confidence, and essential life skills. But is it safe, and how does it fit into an Ofsted inspection?

Within this episode, you will...

• Discover how real jobs help children develop responsibility, independence, and problem-solving skills.
• Learn how these everyday tasks support key learning areas, from fine motor skills to communication and teamwork.
• Understand how showcasing this approach during an inspection highlights high-quality interactions and strong personal development.

Press play now and find out why giving children real responsibilities isn't just beneficial; it’s essential for their growth and your setting’s success! For resources to support you on your early years journey, visit, www.jigsawearlyyearsconsultancy.com  Follow us on Facebook, @JigsawEYC Follow us on Instagram, @jigsaw.earlyyears Follow us on Tiktok, @JigsawEYC

Did you know Ofsted is proposing a major change to Early Years inspections, one that could completely reshape how your setting is assessed?

The new Early Years Inspection Toolkit is open for consultation, and it introduces eight assessment areas instead of the current four. These changes could impact leadership, curriculum, teaching, and safeguarding. If you want to have a say in how inspections will work, now is the time to get informed!

Within this episode, you will...

• Understand the proposed changes, including the new color-coded grading system.
• Learn how leadership, curriculum design, and inclusion will be assessed.
• Discover why your input in the consultation process is crucial and how to make your voice heard.

Listen now to stay ahead of the changes and ensure your setting is prepared—because if you don’t have your say, you can’t complain later! Remember to have you say! Show notes,  Consultation, https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/improving-the-way-ofsted-inspects-education

Ever wondered what inspectors really look for the moment they walk into your setting? Or if Ofsted might be changing their inspection cycle? You’re not alone—today, we’re answering real questions from Early Years professionals just like you!

In this special Q&A episode, we tackle three key questions that settings have been asking. From the ongoing debate about building ratios to what inspectors focus on first and whether Ofsted inspections are becoming more frequent, we’ve got the answers you need to stay informed and prepared.

Tune in to discover:

1. Why relying on building ratios over room ratios could leave you vulnerable.
2. What inspectors truly prioritise when they step into your setting.
3. The latest discussion around potential changes to Ofsted’s inspection cycle.

Don’t miss out, hit play now to get expert insights and practical advice straight from the source! For resources to support you on your early years journey, visit, www.jigsawearlyyearsconsultancy.com  Follow us on Facebook, @JigsawEYC Follow us on Instagram, @jigsaw.earlyyears Follow us on Tiktok, @JigsawEYC

How do you ensure every child in your setting feels truly seen and valued?

In today’s episode, we dive into the heart of early years practice by exploring the importance of fostering a child’s sense of belonging. It’s not just about warm relationships—it’s about creating a safe, inclusive space where children feel secure, confident, and ready to engage with their learning.

Within this episode, you will...

• Learn practical strategies to build warm relationships with your children.
• Discover ways to make your setting more inclusive by celebrating each child’s culture and family.
• Understand how to make transitions smoother and ensure that every child feels welcomed and valued.

Tune into this episode now and start implementing simple changes to make every child feel they truly belong in your setting! For resources to support you on your early years journey, visit, www.jigsawearlyyearsconsultancy.com  Follow us on Facebook, @JigsawEYC Follow us on Instagram, @jigsaw.earlyyears Follow us on Tiktok, @JigsawEYC