Early Excellence Podcast

What happens when young children and older generations share the same space — and the same daily life?Re-release: Originally aired on 13 Sep 2024Judith 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 LinksWatch Judith Ish-Horowicz presenting a TEDx Talk about her workFind out more about Apples and Honey Nightingale CIC

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 2026Leanne 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 LinksExplore more from Ofsted at our Senior Leader BriefingStay up to date with our Early Years Update Blogs

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 2026Anne 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 LinksOrder 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 books

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 2026Dr 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 LinksExplore Dr Gai Lindsay's websiteOrder a copy of her book on AmazonDiscover Early Excellence resources to facilitate creativity

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 App

What does it look like when a whole city gets behind children's communication and language?Re-release: Originally aired on 17 Apr 2026Rachel 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 LinksExplore the Early Talk for York InitiativeRead about Developing Language in the Early YearsDiscover our Communication and Language CPD

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 LinksRead 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 Ltd

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 LinksRead the Blog - Unlocking the Power of Block Play in the EYFSListen to this Episode "Why Children Need Joy with Ben Kingston-Hughes"

Play isn't a luxury — so why does it keep getting pushed to the margins?Re-release: Originally aired on 20 Feb 2026Eugene 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 LinksExplore Play England's Official WebsiteListen to our Episode with Ruth Lue-Quee

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 LinksExplore our Transition to Year 1 BlogDiscover our EYFS CPD & Training ProgrammeTransform your Learning Environment

What do educators really need to know about supporting children born prematurely?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 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 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

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 LinksDiscover our support for International Schools and SettingsExplore more on Anji Play

What does child-centred creative practice really look like in the early years?Re-release: Originally aired on 9 May 2025In 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.

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 LinksExplore 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 Suite

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 LinksFind out more about the forest school on their instagram pages @_beyondtheforest @charnwood_nursery_preschoolDiscover our new range of outdoor resourcesInvest in The EExREC Assessment Suite

What does a transformative learning environment actually look like when a room plan really comes together? Re-release: Originally aired on 16 May 2025In 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 LinksFind out more about our Room Planning ServiceExplore our Free Room Planning WebinarShop our Complete Classroom Solutions

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 LinksExplore the Early Talk for York InitiativeRead about Developing Language in the Early YearsDiscover our Communication and Language CPD

What does truly high-quality education for two year olds actually look like in practice?Re-release: Originally aired on 5 Sep 2025In 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.Episode LinksExplore our Dedicated 2-4yrs PageDiscover Expert-Curated Resources for 2-3yrs

What does creating an inspiring outdoor space actually look like in early years settings?Re-release: Originally aired on 16 Jan 2026In 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 LinksDiscover our brand new Outdoor RangeWatch the Outdoor Range launch videoExplore the Outdoor RoadshowOrder Kathryn's Book "Leading Learning Outdoors from Birth to Seven"

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 LinksExplore Dr Gai Lindsay’s websiteOrder a copy of her book on AmazonDiscover Early Excellence resources to facilitate creativity

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.Episode LinksExplore BBC BitesizeDiscover Early Excellences Free Learning Resources

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 LinksExplore the Birth to 5 Matters GuidanceRead the Survey ResponsesInvest in the Continuous Provision GuidesDiscover the EExREC Baseline Assessment Tool

What happens when you take early years learning outside the classroom — and into the woods?Re-release: Originally aired on 24 Oct 2025Claire 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

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 LinksDiscover 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.

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 LinksExplore Play England's Official WebsiteListen to our Episode with Ruth Lue-Quee

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 LinksOrder 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 books

Practical guidance for planning, resourcing, and delivering high-quality outdoor learning in the EYFS.Re-release: Originally aired on 15 Nov 2024In 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 LinksJoin The Outdoor RoadshowIs Outdoor Learning a key area for development at your school or setting? Find Out About our TrainingOur Team of Curriculum Consultants are available to support you in developing your outdoor space. Find Out About our Outdoor Planning ServiceListen To Evan's First Podcast Episode

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 LinksExplore 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 LinksDiscover 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 LinksDiscover 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 LinksDiscover 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 LinksExplore 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 LinksFind 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 LinksExplore 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 2022In 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 LinksShop 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 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