In this engaging conversation, Karen Faux, the editor of Nursery World, discusses the magazine's significant role in early childhood education over the past 100 years. She reflects on the evolution of the publication, the societal changes it has witnessed, and the influential figures who have contributed to its content. The discussion also highlights the upcoming anniversary edition, which aims to celebrate the past while looking forward to the future of early childhood education.Episode LinksExplore Nursery World's WebsiteJoin the Early Excellence Inspiration Hub App
Practical ways to recognise and build on every child’s cultural capital in the EYFS.Re-release: Originally aired on 3 Mar 2023 What does ‘cultural capital’ really mean in the early years? Nicky Turner from Astrea Multi-Academy Trust joins us to discuss how educators can celebrate children’s experiences, backgrounds, and interests — and use them to shape meaningful learning every day.Episode LinksRead our Blog "All About Building on Children’s Interests"Access Training on How to Explore and Develop Children’s InterestsExplore Continuous Provision Inside Out and make the most of your provision.
Claire Underwood shares her journey in early years education, from teaching in affluent areas to leading outdoor learning at Hopping Hill School. She introduces Wonderwood, a nature-based space that inspires creativity and connection, and reflects on the importance of adult engagement, teacher wellbeing, and belonging in early education.Episode LinksJoin the New Outdoor Roadshow at a Location Near YouExplore our Complete Outdoor Learning Solutions
Re-release: Originally aired on 17 Feb 2023This week, we’re joined on the podcast by Ben Kingston-Hughes. Ben is an author, trainer, keynote speaker and also the Managing Director of Inspired Children. Our conversation takes many twists and turns but focuses on the vital importance of early childhood.Episode LinksJoin our "The Child in Mind" ConferenceOrder a copy of Ben's BookExplore our Training & EventsListen to our interview with Prof. Sam Wass "The Secret Lives of Young Learners"
This week we talk to Jenny Nechvatal about her experience as a parent of children with autism. She shares key advice for effective practice when working with children with SEND.Episode LinksDiscover SEND Training and Support to Guide YouExplore the Innovative Disability Solutions WebsiteOrder Embracing Disability in Early Childhood on Amazon
Re-release: Originally aired on 18 Nov 2022As one of the prime areas of learning, physical development underpins children’s overall learning and development. Yet how often do we consider children’s physical development in real depth? In this week’s episode, we talk with Helen Hawes about her support work in schools and how small changes to our practice can have a big impact for our children.Episode LinksExplore our CPD coursesExplore our Outdoor Resource CollectionsContact Helen to find out more about her work in schools. Helen is on Twitter @futuressporty. You’ll also find her on Facebook @sportyfuturesuk
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 LinksExplore what International Services we can offerRead 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 LinksShop our Outdoor Resource Sets and SolutionsArrange an Outdoor Environment ConsultationExplore Outdoor CPD
Re-release: Originally aired on 7 Oct 2022This 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 LinksOrder The Secret Lives of 4, 5 and 6 Year Olds bookWatch 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 LinksExplore our Dedicated 2-4yrs PageDiscover Expert-Curated Resources for 2-3yrs
Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 13 Sep 2024Judith 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 LinksWatch Judith Ish-Horowicz presenting a TEDx Talk about her workFind out more about Apples and Honey Nightingale CIC
Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 17 Jan 2025The brilliant Ben Kingston-Hughes joins us this week as we explore the power of joy when working with young children.Episode LinksOrder 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 2025This week we’re joined by Dr. Jools Page as we explore her highly important research on professional love within EYFS settings.Episode LinksWatch 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 2025We welcome Dr Karen Boardman from Edge Hill University to the podcast this week as we discuss all things early literacy.Episode LinksExplore Early Excellence Training on Strengthening Early Literacy in the EYFSFind Out More on the Work of Dr Karen BoardmanDiscover our Range of Literacy Resources
Summer Re-release: Originally aired on 7 Mar 2025Caroline 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 LinksExplore The Smallest Things Charity websiteAccess 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 LinksExplore the Unplugged Early Years WebsiteShop Early Excellence's ResourcesDiscover Inspirational CPD Training
Re-release: Originally aired on 20 Oct 2023Does 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 LinksExplore Continuous Provision Inside OutShop 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 linksExplore our Blog on the Importance of the Characteristics of Effective LearningDiscover our CPD Training
Re-release: Originally aired on 1 Nov 2024Louise Herbert and Gareth Shaw join us this week as we offer valuable SEND advice and answer key questions to support practice.Episode LinksAccess our Free SEND Framework MaterialsJoin 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 educationEpisode LinksExplore our Play Based ResourcesDiscover CPD Training