Are you keen to find out about Ofsted inspection under the new Inspection Framework?

Hear from Andy Kitchen, Headteacher at Stafford Leys Primary School as he shares his recent experience of an Ofsted inspection. With invaluable information about the initial phone call through to day one inspection activities and the shaping of second day lines of enquiry. Andy talks through the ongoing professional discussion and reflection opportunities over the course of the process. He discusses preparation strategies, key focus areas including inclusion and early years, and how to own the process to showcase the school's strengths. He offers honest thoughts and practical suggestions to help leaders navigate inspection with clarity and purpose.

An invaluable discussion for school leaders looking to approach Ofsted with confidence and lead their team through the process effectively.

Are you exploring what Continuous Provision looks like in Key Stage 1 and how can it work in practice?

In this episode Cassie Puplett shares her experiences as a Headteacher exploring continuous provision beyond the early years. The conversation focuses on evidence-informed practice, the vital link between EYFS and KS1, and the balance between teaching and learning through play. Cassie reflects on her hybrid approaches in Year 1 and Year 2, the importance of well-considered learning environments, and the positive impact these approaches have on children’s learning and development. She shares practical tips and reflective insights for schools looking to implement and refine continuous provision beyond EYFS.

A thoughtful and practical discussion for educators interested in extending continuous provision, strengthening progression, and continually improving learning experiences for children in KS1.

Episode Links

1. Explore our KS1 Conference with Keynote Speaker Professor Julie Fisher

Is your curriculum designed to truly meet the needs of every child, especially the most vulnerable?

In this podcast episode Brogan Taylor shares her inspiring curriculum journey at Somercotes Infant and Nursery School. She reflects on the importance of deeply understanding school context, planning intentionally for vulnerable learners, and creating a curriculum that is purposeful, inclusive, and aspirational. The conversation explores the 10 key steps taken to shape meaningful learning experiences, the role of key texts, and the value of enriching opportunities that support children’s emotional and social development. Brogan offers practical insights and reflections for educators looking to strengthen and refine their own curriculum practice.

An inspirational listen for anyone looking to design curriculum with clarity, compassion, and a strong focus on what children truly need to thrive.

Are you placing a focus on SEND and Inclusion?

This month, Catherine Mole, CEO of Dingley’s Promise, shares her inspiring journey and the charity’s mission to champion inclusion for children with SEND in early years education. She reflects on the importance of advocacy, the challenges of funding, and the transformative power of policy change. The conversation explores how educators can build confidence, celebrate diversity, and empower families through meaningful support and high-quality early education.

Gain inspiration from this episode and discover how a positive, inclusive approach to early years education can change outcomes, and lives, for children and families alike.

Reflect on this thought-provoking discussion and the key messages.

Are you considering expanding your nursery provision and exploring the School Based Nursery Grant application process?

In this episode, Deputy Headteacher Abbas Jaffer shares the journey of expanding the 2YO nursery provision at Minet Infant and Nursery School using the Government’s School Based Nursery Grant. He reflects on the vision and values that underpin their early years practice and the early successes following the expansion to offer new 2YO provision. With invaluable information about the expansion as a whole and great insights about the grant application process – it’s a must listen for any leader looking to expand their nursery provision in school.

Tune in to hear about a successful nursery expansion journey!

Episode Links

• Discover how Early Excellence can Support you with your Bid for the School-Based Nursery Grant
• Read Case Studies from Schools Who Were Successful in Phase 1 of the School-Based Nursery Grant
• Explore More About the School or Arrange a Visit

Are you grappling with how to strengthen support for children with SEND in the EYFS?

Hear from SEND specialist Helen Mohatta and draw on her expertise and deep knowledge of both the EYFS and SEND. Helen reflects on the power of early intervention, the design of effective learning environments, and the vital role of play in supporting all children. She offers thoughtful insights and actionable advice for educators working to meet the diverse needs of children with SEND and explores practical strategies and successful projects that have made a difference in inclusive practice.

Reflect on this thoughtful discussion as part of your journey to enabling every child to thrive!

Are you looking to successfully establish Continuous Provision in KS1?

In this episode, Kate Davies and Becca Taylor from The Pines School share their journey of embedding continuous provision in KS1. They explore the vital role of play in children's learning, reflect on the challenges and triumphs of implementation, and offer insights into the practical and cultural shifts required to make it work. The conversation highlights the importance of strong leadership, collaborative teams, and a clear, shared vision to build an engaging and enabling learning environment.

Discover how to reshape KS1 pedagogy to bring the curriculum to life, making learning more meaningful for children and the teaching team!

Explore the KS1 Roadshow

How effectively do your Reception Baseline Assessment processes support your children, the team, teaching and learning?

Phil Armstrong and Sarah Carey are joined by Helen Bingham, Early Years Lead at the Aspire Trust to discuss the impact of the EExREC tool. Together, they explore the challenges of Baseline Assessment practices and explore EExREC – a new, holistic assessment tool designed to support meaningful practice and provision at the start of the Reception year. The conversation highlights the impact of EExREC in providing well-informed data, supporting professional development, enabling evaluations to inform practice and giving insight into each unique child.

Spark reflection and inspire impactful Reception Baseline Assessment in your school.