On this episode of Mind The Gap, Jon Hutchinson and Emma Turner are joined by Julian Grenier, a leading expert in early years education. Together, they discuss the foundations of early childhood learning, focusing on the crucial role of relationships and the development of coherent, supportive environments for young learners. Julian emphasizes the need for consistency in early years curricula, saying, “If we can get it right from the very beginning, we can set children on a much stronger trajectory.” The trio also explore the challenges faced by educators in the early years and the importance of community engagement in supporting children’s development. Finally, Julian shares insights from his work on the Early Years Foundation Stage and his thoughts on fostering professional development in early education.

Julian Grenier joined the EEF as a Senior Content and Engagement Manager (Early Years) in 2024. Before joining the EEF, Julian was the headteacher of Sheringham Nursery School and Children’s Centre in Newham, East London. During this time, he also led East London Research School. Julian has also been Ofsted's Early Education lead, and Senior Early Years Adviser in Tower Hamlets. He is a trustee of the charity Thrive at Five. He has written several best-selling books about early education and care, including Putting the EYFS Curriculum Into Practice. Follow him on X @juliangenier

Emma Turner FCCT is a school improvement advisor, education consultant, trainer and author. She has almost three decades of primary teaching, headship and leadership experience across the sector, working and leading in both MATs and LAs. She works nationally and internationally on school improvement including at single school level and at scale. She has a particular interest in research informed practice in the primary phase, early career development, and CPD design. Follow Emma on X ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@emma_turner75⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Jon Hutchinson is a former assistant headteacher of Reach Academy Feltham and is now a Director at the Reach Foundation. He has taught across primary and secondary and HE. In his spare time, Jon runs www.meno.acacdemy, a platform with free videos to support primary teachers to build their subject knowledge. Follow Jon on X ⁠⁠@jon_hutchinson_ or Bluesky @jonhutchinson.bksy.social

This podcast is produced by Haringey Education Partnership. Find out more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://haringeyeducationpartnership.co.uk/