Early Excellence Podcast
Join us as we discuss a diverse range of EYFS and KS1 best practice and provision, resourcing your Early Years environment and keep you up to date news and reviews from Ofsted & the DfE
Child-Centred Practice and Inspiring Learning Environments with Emma Yiend
Emma Yiend joins us this week as we discuss the positive impact of child-centred practice and learning environments which inspire thoughts and challenge thinking.
Episode Links
Join the Early Excellence Early Years Leaders Conference 2026/27Transform Your Classroom with an Expertly Designed Room PlanDiscover our Block Area CollectionsMentioned in this episode:
Join our Conference for Early Years Leaders
https://earlyexcellence.com/early-years-leaders-conference/ Join us for an inspiring Early Excellence national conference centred on developing Curriculum and Foundational Knowledge in the Early Years.
Local Area Visits as Part of a Rich EYFS Curriculum with Angela Thorogood
Angela Thorogood joins us from St Mary's Primary School in Whitstable as we discuss how visits to the local area can provide rich learning experiences.
Episode Links
Explore more about St Mary's Catholic Primary School, WhitstableRead our blog "The Outdoor Curriculum in all its Glory"Discover our Outdoor Learning Provision & Practice for 3-7yrsMentioned in this episode:
Join our Conference for Early Years Leaders
https://earlyexcellence.com/early-years-leaders-conference/ Join us for an inspiring Early Excellence national conference centred on developing Curriculum and Foundational Knowledge in the Early...
Bringing Puppets to Life with Emma Boor
Emma Boor from Wild Boor Ideas joins us this week as we discuss the use of puppets and drama with young children.
A Close Look at Physical development in the EYFS with Helen Buteux
Occupational Therapist Helen Buteux joins us this week on the podcast. She shares insights on physical development in the EYFS, the importance of foundational skills, and how occupational therapy can support children and families. This conversation highlights practical advice for parents and educators to foster healthy development from pregnancy through preschool.
Episode Links
Read our Blog on The Importance of Fine Motor Skills in the EYFSDownload our Free Outdoor Provision Audit ToolExplore our Upcoming Conference for Early Years LeadersMentioned in this episode:
Join our Conference for Early Years Leaders<...
A Focus on Research Informed SEND Practice with Becky Lindsay
Becky Lindsay joins us this week on the podcast as we discuss child-centred, research informed SEND practice.
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Meet the Needs of Children with SEND in the Early YearsThe New Birth to 5 Matters Document with Nancy Stewart
Nancy Stewart joins us for this week’s episode of the podcast as we explore the new Birth to 5 Matters document following its official launch in July. We explore the new features included in the materials and also revisit the key principles which remain so central.
Episode Links
Find out more about Birth to 5 Matters and download the materialsThe Power of Storytelling with Jules Pottle
Join us as Jules Pottle, an expert in storytelling and education, shares innovative methods to integrate storytelling into teaching science, drama, and literacy. Discover how engaging narratives can transform learning experiences for children from early years to primary school.
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Storytelling in the Blocks and Small World AreaDownload our free Blocks Area Planning GuideEffective Assessment in the EYFS with Stephen Kilgour
Stephen Kilgour joins us as we discuss the key principles of effective assessment in the EYFS.
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Find Out About our Early Excellence Assessment SuiteJoin Us for Training as we Explore Effective Practice in the Reception YearExplore Effective Continuous Provision PlanningBeach Schools with Rhianne Stephens
Could regular trips to the beach be one of the most powerful things a setting can offer young children?
Re-release: Originally aired on 14 Feb 2025
Rhianne Stephens from Ely and Caerau Integrated Children's Centre in Cardiff joins us to talk about their year-round beach visits and the impact connecting with nature has had on the children in their care.
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Discover our Range of Outdoor ResourcesSlow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child with Alison Clark
In a world that keeps speeding up, what does it mean to slow down — and why might that be exactly what young children need?
Re-release: Originally aired on 5 May 2023
Alison Clark joins us to discuss her book Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child, making the case for slow pedagogies in early childhood education and exploring the pressures that work against them.
Episode Links
Watch the Slow Pedagogy: Making Time for Children's Learning and Development video clipOrder a copy of Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried ChildProfessional Love in the EYFS with Dr Jools Page
What does it really mean to love the children in your care — and why does it matter so much in early years settings?
Re-release: Originally aired on 31 Jan 2025
Dr Jools Page joins us to explore her research on professional love in EYFS settings, and what it looks like when practitioners get this right.
Episode Links
Watch the Video "Professional Love: The Dance of Reciprocity"Read the Blog "What is Professional Love?"Explore EYFS CPD TrainingYoung and Old Together: Exploring Intergenerational Practice with Judith Ish-Horowicz
What happens when young children and older generations share the same space — and the same daily life?
Re-release: Originally aired on 13 Sep 2024
Judith Ish-Horowicz, co-founder and director of the UK's first intergenerational nursery, talks us through the inspiring work at Apples and Honey Nightingale and the benefits it brings for everyone involved.
Episode Links
Watch Judith Ish-Horowicz presenting a TEDx Talk about her workFind out more about Apples and Honey Nightingale CICNavigating Ofsted Inspections: Insights from a Pilot School with Leanne Foster
What's it actually like to go through a pilot Ofsted inspection — and what did the focus on EYFS look like in practice?
Re-release: Originally aired on 30 Jan 2026
Leanne Foster shares her first-hand experience of a pilot Ofsted inspection, including the conversations her team had with inspectors and what schools can take from the process.
Episode Links
Explore more from Ofsted at our Senior Leader BriefingStay up to date with our Early Years Update BlogsNavigating Change in Mixed-Age Classes: Challenges for Schools and Leaders with Anne Brass and Kate Gingles
Mixed-age classes can work brilliantly — but what happens when change is driven by necessity rather than vision?
Re-release: Originally aired on 13 Feb 2026
Anne Brass and Kate Gingles join us to discuss the complexities schools face with mixed-age classes, from establishing a clear guiding purpose to navigating structural change with limited guidance available.
Episode Links
Order our New Guide to Mixed-Age ClassesDiscover more from Education DurhamDownload the Free School Leader Reflection Tool on Mixed-Age ClassesFind out more about the Education Durham Mixed Phase Magic guidance booksVisual Arts in Early Childhood Settings with Dr Gai Lindsay
What can visual art experiences really unlock for young children — and how do you make the most of them in practice?
Re-release: Originally aired on 27 Mar 2026
Dr Gai Lindsay joins us to explore the rich learning opportunities that visual art experiences offer young children, with practical guidance for teachers and practitioners on bringing creativity to life in their settings.
Episode Links
Explore Dr Gai Lindsay's websiteOrder a copy of her book on AmazonDiscover Early Excellence resources to facilitate creativityGoing Screen Free in the EYFS with Lucy Fox
Lucy Fox from Stoke Primary School in Coventry joins us for this week’s episode, as we explore the impact of screen-free practice in the EYFS.
Episode Links
Read the Blog: Block Play Alongside Small World ResourcesRead the Blog: Navigating the Sea of Talk - why language-rich environments go beyond labels and key wordsExplore language-rich environment resources on the Inspiration Hub AppClosing the Communication Gap: Early Talk for York with Rachel Shearer and Martin Cumming
What does it look like when a whole city gets behind children's communication and language?
Re-release: Originally aired on 17 Apr 2026
Rachel Shearer and Martin Cumming join us to explore Early Talk for York — a citywide initiative aimed at closing the communication and language gap in young children, and what it takes to make that kind of joined-up approach work.
Episode Links
Explore the Early Talk for York InitiativeRead about Developing Language in the Early YearsDiscover our Communication and Language CPDThe Power of Role Play with Becky Hoare
Role play is our focus this week as we welcome Becky Hoare to the podcast. Becky is a Primary Teacher and the Founder of Pop Up Play Village Ltd. We discuss children’s natural desire to role play what they see in the world around them. There is lots of key advice here too for developing effective and inspiring domestic role play in your setting.
Episode Links
Read the Blog "Exploring Powerful Learning Through Home Corner Role Play"Explore Complete Home Corner Role Play Area ResourcesFind out more about Pop Up Play Village LtdThe Wonder of Storytelling with Ed Finch
We’re joined on the podcast this week by Ed Finch, a Headteacher with a passion for storytelling. We have a great chat about our natural desire to tell stories and the impact of this on our lives. We also explore how storytelling provides wonderfully engaging learning opportunities for our youngest children.
Episode Links
Read the Blog - Unlocking the Power of Block Play in the EYFSListen to this Episode "Why Children Need Joy with Ben Kingston-Hughes"Making Space for Play - A Conversation with Eugene Minogue
Play isn't a luxury — so why does it keep getting pushed to the margins?
Re-release: Originally aired on 20 Feb 2026
Eugene Minogue, Interim Executive Director at Play England, joins us to discuss why play matters so much for children's development, the barriers standing in its way, and what a genuine cultural shift around play would look like.
Episode Links
Explore Play England's Official WebsiteListen to our Episode with Ruth Lue-QueeExploring Transition and Pace with Dixie-Louise Dexter
Dixie-Louise Dexter joins us for this week’s episode as we explore effective transition processes and the value of slowing down the pace.
Episode Links
Explore our Transition to Year 1 BlogDiscover our EYFS CPD & Training ProgrammeTransform your Learning EnvironmentPremature Birth, Development and Early Support with Caroline Woodman
What do educators really need to know about supporting children born prematurely?
Re-release: Originally aired on 7 Mar 2025
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 emphasises 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...
Anji Inspired Play with Patana School in Bangkok
Gemma Wales and Sarah Gaughan from Patana School in Bangkok join us for this week’s episode. We discuss how their early years practice has been inspired by Anji Play and discuss key aspects such as the theory, resources, the practice and the impact on the young learners.
Episode Links
Discover our support for International Schools and SettingsExplore more on Anji PlayCreativity, Culture and the Child with Gemma Shadid
What does child-centred creative practice really look like in the early years?
Re-release: Originally aired on 9 May 2025
In this episode, Gemma Shadid joins us 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 Range of Sensory ResourcesExplore the EYFS Framework and its Guidance for Early Years Practice.The Can Do Approach to Supporting Speech, Language and Communication Skills with Joanne Jones
Speech Therapist and online educator Joanne Jones joins us on the podcast this week. We discuss positive approaches to supporting speech, language and communication skills in young children.
Episode Links
Explore language-rich environment resources on the Inspiration Hub AppDevelop your understanding of language and communication with Let's Get Talking in the EYFSRead the Blog Navigating the Sea of Talk – why language-rich environments go beyond labels and key wordsInvest in The EExREC Assessment SuiteDeveloping an Inspiring Forest Schools Site with Charnwood Nursery and Preschool Group
Listen in as we’re joined by Jess Watson and Claire Curtis from the Charnwood Nursery and Preschool Group and discuss all things forest schools. We explore the development of their forest school site, the wonderfully rich experiences provided and the impact on their children.
Episode Links
Find out more about the forest school on their instagram pages @_beyondtheforest @charnwood_nursery_preschoolDiscover our new range of outdoor resourcesInvest in The EExREC Assessment SuiteThe Power of a Great Room Plan with Holme Valley Primary School
What does a transformative learning environment actually look like when a room plan really comes together?
Re-release: Originally aired on 16 May 2025
In this episode, we chat with Rachel Stephenson and Sue Lonsdale from Holme Valley Primary School in Scunthorpe. They share their experience of developing inspirational learning environments and reflect on the impact this had during their recent Ofsted inspection.
Episode Links
Find out more about our Room Planning ServiceExplore our Free Room Planning WebinarShop our Complete Classroom SolutionsEarly Talk for York with Rachel Shearer and Martin Cumming
This week, we’re joined by Rachel Shearer and Martin Cumming as we discuss a citywide initiative in York aimed at closing the communication and language gap in young children.
Episode Links
Explore the Early Talk for York InitiativeRead about Developing Language in the Early YearsDiscover our Communication and Language CPDGetting Two Year Old Practice Right with Dulwich College in Shanghai
What does truly high-quality education for two year olds actually look like in practice?
Re-release: Originally aired on 5 Sep 2025
In this 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 of establishing a nurturing environment for toddlers, the importance of understanding child development, and the role of parents in the learning process. The conversation also explores the significance of creating a child-centred space and the impact of schematic play.
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...The Outdoor Classroom with Kathryn Solly
What does creating an inspiring outdoor space actually look like in early years settings?
Re-release: Originally aired on 16 Jan 2026
In this episode, we explore the key features of effective practice outdoors with the inspirational Kathryn Solly. As part of the conversation, we discuss the importance of creating a positive culture towards outdoor learning and explore a broad range of rich outdoor experiences.
Episode Links
Discover our brand new Outdoor RangeWatch the Outdoor Range launch videoExplore the Outdoor RoadshowOrder Kathryn's Book "Leading Learning Outdoors from Birth to Seven"Visual Arts in Early Childhood Settings with Dr Gai Lindsay
Dr Gai Lindsay joins us this week on the podcast as we explore the rich learning opportunities provided by visual art experiences. We discuss the wonderful nature of creative experiences for young children and offer practical guidance for teachers and practitioners.
Episode Links
Explore Dr Gai Lindsay’s websiteOrder a copy of her book on AmazonDiscover Early Excellence resources to facilitate creativityExploring BBC Bitesize
In this episode, Jonathan Tremewan and Jess Denning from the BBC Bitesize team join us as we explore their recent projects and resources to inspire young learners.
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Explore BBC BitesizeDiscover Early Excellences Free Learning ResourcesBirth to 5 Matters with Nancy Stewart
In this, our 200th Episode, we’re joined by Nancy Stewart. We explore Nancy’s career at the forefront of early years education and also the new updated version of Birth to 5 Matters.
Episode Links
Explore the Birth to 5 Matters GuidanceRead the Survey ResponsesInvest in the Continuous Provision GuidesDiscover the EExREC Baseline Assessment ToolWonderwood: Outdoor Learning in the Early Years with Claire Underwood
What happens when you take early years learning outside the classroom — and into the woods?
Re-release: Originally aired on 24 Oct 2025
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 Links
Join the New Outdoor Roadshow at a Location Near YouExplore our Complete Outdoor Learning SolutionsDesigning Inspirational Learning Opportunities with Emma Weston
Emma Weston is our guest for this week’s episode of the podcast. Emma is a Learning Designer at Verso International School in Bangkok. As part of the conversation, Emma takes us on a tour of their inspirational learning environments and we also explore how Emma and her team follow children’s interests, and plan fascinating projects.
Episode Links
Discover our support for International Schools & SettingsRead how San Silvestre School in Lima transformed their Early Years and Key Stage One provision through international EYFS consultancy.Exploring the Vital Importance of Play with Eugene Minogue, Interim Executive Director, Play England
This week, we’re joined by Eugene Minogue, Interim Executive Director at Play England. We discuss the vital importance of play and the barriers to it within society. We also explore what needs to happen to create a positive cultural shift around play.
Episode Links
Explore Play England's Official WebsiteListen to our Episode with Ruth Lue-QueeNavigating Change in Mixed-Age Classes: Challenges for Schools and Leaders
In this episode, Anne Brass and Kate Gingles join us to discuss mixed-age classes and the complexities schools face when change is driven by necessity rather than vision. The conversation explores the difficulty of establishing a clear guiding purpose, the pressures that can lead to structural change, and the limited guidance available for schools navigating transformation in mixed-age classrooms.
Episode Links
Order our New Guide to Mixed-Aged ClassesDiscover more from Education DurhamDownload the Free School Leader Reflection Tool on Mixed-Aged ClassesFind out more about the Education Durham Mixed Phase Magic guidance booksEffective Outdoor Learning in the EYFS – Key Principles with Evan McCormick
Practical guidance for planning, resourcing, and delivering high-quality outdoor learning in the EYFS.
Re-release: Originally aired on 15 Nov 2024
In this episode, Evan McCormick explores the key principles of effective outdoor learning in the early years. We discuss the importance of thoughtful organisation, purposeful resourcing, and careful planning, alongside the vital role of the adult in supporting learning outdoors. The conversation focuses on creating outdoor environments that are engaging, well-structured, and responsive to children’s needs.
Episode Links
Join The Outdoor RoadshowIs Outdoor Learning a key area for development at your school or se...Navigating Ofsted Inspections: Insights from a Pilot School
This week, we’re joined by Leanne Foster as we discuss her experience of a pilot Ofsted inspection at her school. We discuss the focus on the EYFS and the conversations that Leanne and her team had with the inspectors as part of the process.
Episode Links
Explore more from Ofsted at our Senior Leader BriefingStay up to date with our Early Years Update BlogsThe International Language of Learning
In this week’s episode we meet with Charlotte Knight- Benjafield and Rob Spillane from Wellington College in Shanghai. We discuss their bilingual and immersive curriculum and how they use project based learning to fully embed effective learning characteristics.
Episode Links
Discover our support for International Schools and SettingsExplore more about Wellington College