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Practical strategies to strengthen communication, language, and interaction in the early years. Re-release: Originally aired on 5 July 2024 In this episode, Evan McCormick joins us to explore key strategies for supporting children’s communication and language development in the EYFS. We discuss the role of consistent routines, plan–do–review cycles, and effective adult interactions, alongside approaches to meeting the needs of children with English as an Additional Language (EAL) and those with developmental delays. Episode Links Join The Outdoor RoadshowFind out More About our Training on Effective Adult Interactions and Communication and Language DevelopmentRead our Blog on Navigating the Sea of Talk Listen to our Podcast Episode with Catherine Laing - Exploring Early Speech and Language Development

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 Blogs

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

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"

In this episode, Lana Webster shares her experience of Forest School and outdoor learning, exploring how child-led experiences in nature support wellbeing, skill development, and meaningful learning. Lana reflects on creating safe, magical outdoor environments, working with families, and the positive impact outdoor provision has on both children and staff. Episode Links Discover our brand new Outdoor RangeWatch the Outdoor Range launch videoExplore the Outdoor RoadshowLearn more about Lana’s Forest School approach

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by children’s Nurse and potty training expert Rebecca Mottram. Rebecca discusses the different stages of the potty training process and offers key advice for Teachers, Practitioners and parents. Episode Links Explore Rebecca's Website to Find Out MoreDownload the FREE Supporting Children’s Toileting Needs in Early Years Settings Guidance for Preschools and Nurseries guideOrder Rebecca's book "Positively Potty" from Bloomsbury

Ruth Lue-Quee joins us this week to discuss her campaign to make play and continuous provision statutory in England’s Key Stage One Curriculum. As part of the conversation, we explore how learning through play is vital for young children’s learning beyond the EYFS. Episode Links Find out More and Sign the Petition To Make Play and Continuous Provision statutory in England's Key Stage 1 CurriculumExplore our Complete Provision Areas and Resources for KS1Invest in the Early Excellence Guide to Continuous Provision 5-7yrs

Discover how outdoor learning can transform teaching and inspire young minds. In this episode, Sarah Seaman, also known as The Muddy Puddle Teacher, shares her journey from traditional classroom teaching to pioneering outdoor learning. With over 17 years of experience, Sarah discusses the benefits of nature-based education, offers practical tips for teachers, and introduces her new Key Stage 1 book published by Bloomsbury, inspiring schools across the UK and beyond. Episode Links Explore Sarah’s book "The Muddy Puddle KS1 Teacher" from BloomsburyShop our Outdoor Learning Resources

Practical ways to enrich learning and meaningful talk through home corner role play in the early years. Re-release: Originally aired on 1 Apr 2022 In this episode, Andy chats with Amanda Belbin from Bincombe Valley Primary School in Weymouth. Amanda shares how purposeful enhancements and high-quality interactions have made Home Corner Role Play a central part of their early years practice — inspiring creativity, communication, and confidence in young learners. Episode Links Shop our Home Corner Role Play ResourcesFollow Bincombe Valley on X Read Amanda’s Home Corner Role Play Blog

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 Links Explore 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 Links Read 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 Links Join the New Outdoor Roadshow at a Location Near YouExplore our Complete Outdoor Learning Solutions

Re-release: Originally aired on 17 Feb 2023 This 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 Links Join 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 Links Discover 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 2022 As 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 Links Explore 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