Early Years Impact

In this energising and thought-provoking episode, we explore what it really means to lead with intention in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). At a time when the role of early years leadership is becoming increasingly visible in both research and practice, we ask: what does great leadership actually look like through the lens of early childhood?We consider the idea of the leader as connector - not just managing provision, but weaving together people, pedagogy and purpose. From shaping school-wide culture to nurturing the professional growth of early years teams, intentional leadership is more than a role - it's a responsibility rooted in relationships.As the field of early childhood leadership research begins to expand, we're seeing just how essential this kind of thoughtful, responsive leadership is to high-quality provision. Whether you're a headteacher, EYFS lead or passionate classroom practitioner, this episode invites you to reflect, reconnect, and lead with clarity and care.In This Episode, You’ll Discover:• Why intentional leadership is a game-changer for early years settings and what it looks like in real life• The vital role of leaders as connectors: linking children, teams, families and the wider school vision• How early years leadership is emerging as a distinct and powerful field of research• What research tells us about the link between early childhood leadership and whole-school outcomes• Why leadership in early years must be shaped by a child development lens, not borrowed from other phases• How to navigate the complexity of early childhood with confidence, flexibility and purpose• What’s shaping and influencing the people leading our youngest learners and who’s leading them?• The impact of targeted, intentional leadership on team growth, staff wellbeing and child outcomes• How to move from managing to meaning-making: leading with vision, values and voice.This episode is a reminder that in early childhood, leadership isn't about hierarchy - it’s about connection, influence and intention. And when we lead well, with the right mindset and methods, everyone in our setting thrives from the tiniest learners to the most experienced educators.I’m Michelle Hague, founder of HEYD (Early Years School Improvement Specialists) and host of the Early Years Impact Podcast. Got thoughts, questions, or want to connect? Drop me a message: michellehague@heyd.uk or visit heyd.co.uk.Dr Amie Fabry has multifaceted experience as an early childhood educator, academic, researcher, policy consultant and professional development facilitator. Her PhD research revealed the critical role early childhood leaders play in school settings to support educators to embed quality practices for children as they transition into and through the early years of school. As Director of Early Childhood at The Learning future, Amie uses a strengths-based approach to build the confidence, knowledge and skills of early childhood educators, teachers and leaders to create responsive and trusting cultures in which educators and children can thrive. She is the author of Lead with Intention, the first framework for leading the early years of school.Linked In- Amie Fabry PhDInstagram- amiefabry_earlyyearsWebsite thelearningfuture.com

Alistair Bryce-Clegg, an esteemed international early years consultant and author, delves into the essence of authentic early years education. He emphasizes the importance of honoring children's natural developmental rhythms rather than adhering to rigid schedules. Alistair advocates for shifting from curriculum delivery to fostering authentic growth, showcasing how observer practices can enhance learning experiences. He also discusses the profound impact of joyful, quality play in early childhood, illustrating that respecting real development is not just beneficial but essential.

In this uplifting episode, we explore why music isn’t just a 'nice extra' in early years - it’s a neuroscientific powerhouse that builds the brain, boosts learning and supports development in ways no other activity can.Joined by the brilliant Sue Newman from Boogie Mites, we dive into how music and movement light up young children’s brains, laying the groundwork for language, self-regulation, memory and even maths. You’ll hear how musical play isn't about perfection – but, what is it about? Press play to find out :)This is your invitation to put music at the heart of your EYFS practice - not as a Friday treat, but as a daily, brain-building essential.This episode will leave you dancing away with inspiration, backed by science and full of practical ideas.In This Episode, You’ll Discover:• How music shapes the developing brain – and why it’s so closely linked to language, memory, motor skills and executive function• Why music is more than a 'creative area' – it’s a tool for self-regulation, belonging, emotional regulation and learning across the EYFS curriculum• The power of rhythm, repetition and movement – how Boogie Mites programmes use neuroscience-backed techniques to strengthen neural pathways• How music supports early literacy and phonological awareness – laying strong foundations for reading before formal instruction even begins• Why music is calming for the brain – and how it helps co-regulation for both children and adults• How to build musical confidence as a practitioner – even if you don’t see yourself as ‘musical’ • Practical ways to embed music across your day, including whether to play background music as children play – or not. And that’s just an overview! I’m Michelle Hague, founder of HEYD (Early Years School Improvement Specialists) and host of the Early Years Impact podcast.I’m Michelle Hague, founder of HEYD (Early Years School Improvement Specialists) and host of the Early Years Impact podcast.You can contact me directly: michellehague@heyd.ukVisit heyd.co.uk for more on our early years school improvement consultancy offersSponsored by outdoor.classrooms and their SENDCO Nature Initiative, which is proudly supported by HEYD. I know this episode will inspire you to connect more with Sue Newman, who you can also find at boogiemites.co.uk: After a giving up a business career to look after my children, Sue returned to my childhood love of music and set up Boogie Mites as co-founder with Harriet Thomas in 2007. She is delighted to spend every day leading our passionate team of teachers at Boogie Mites as we share the joy and learning power of music every day. Our mission is to equip early educators and parents with the knowledge, confidence and resources to make active, creative music making part of each and every day.Sue still does some teaching, she presents at conferences, write articles, manages business strategy planning, programme compilation, training provision, local authority contracts, team and customer relationships. She has many partners/ collaborators, including Neuromuscial Educator Dr Anita Collins, Dr Kathryn Murray and children’s author Michael Rosen.We have a vision of making a real difference to early years education globally through the power of music, starting children on a lifelong love of music, language and literacy, with all the associated wellness and cognitive benefits, wellbeing and health benefits.

Join Jon Cripwell, National Primary Maths Lead at Twinkl Education, as he dives into the enchanting world of early mathematics. Discover why strong early number sense can predict future success and learn how everyday routines like snack time can become math-rich experiences. Jon emphasizes the importance of precise vocabulary and the adult's role in nurturing mathematical thinking. He also tackles the debate around designated maths areas, urging a shift from checklist models to more engaging, playful approaches in early learning. It's a reimagining of maths that invites everyone, including parents, to participate!

Professor Sam Wass, a child psychologist and neuroscientist, sheds light on the intricacies of attention in young children. He discusses the flaws in traditional concentration models, emphasizing the importance of adapting environments to support focus. Sam highlights how play, predictability, and routines enhance learning. He reveals the surprising effects of stress on attention and advocates for noticing more and intervening less. This engaging conversation equips parents and educators with practical strategies to foster resilience and deep engagement in children.

David Goodger, CEO of Early Years Wales, shares his passion for creativity in early childhood education. He emphasizes that creativity is a mindset essential for both children and adults. Goodger discusses Bill Lucas’s Creative Habits of Mind, linking creativity to resilience and innovation. He highlights the importance of dynamic, child-led learning environments and urges educators to foster curiosity without constraints. With insights into future job readiness and the necessity of play, he inspires listeners to embrace creativity as a vital part of the learning process.

In a dynamic discussion, Michelle Windridge, an experienced early years educator and national education lead for Twinkl, underscores the importance of relationships in education. She advocates for thoughtful transitions that prioritize emotional safety over traditional behavior management. Windridge reveals how routines provide more than structure—they foster identity and calm. She also shares strategies for building strong parent partnerships and emphasizes the power of connection in creating a positive learning environment for children and educators alike.

In this lively discussion, Greg Bottrill, an author and advocate for play, shares his insights on loose parts play. He emphasizes the transformative power of rebranding learning spaces, suggesting names like 'Carpet Kingdom' and 'Waterworld' to spark imagination. Greg explains how everyday objects foster creativity, emotional connections, and even physical development, such as using sand-filled socks for strength. The episode also highlights the crucial role of adults as co-adventurers in children's play, encouraging a deeper, joyful learning experience.

Nathan Burns, known as 'Mr Metacognition', is a specialist and author focused on enhancing children's cognitive skills. In this conversation, he defines metacognition and its crucial role in early learning. Nathan emphasizes the power of play in developing reflective thinking and shares practical strategies for parents to engage children in metacognitive practices. He advocates for open-ended tasks that encourage creativity and teamwork, while also stressing the importance of vocabulary and thoughtful questions to deepen understanding. Messy attempts are celebrated as essential stages in the learning process.

Charlotte Davies, founder of the Fit to Learn social enterprise and expert in children's development, explores intriguing concepts like the importance of sound processing and motor-sensory integration. She emphasizes how motor skills support emotional regulation and cognitive function. With practical strategies for parents and educators, she discusses the significance of nasal breathing, primitive reflexes, and the benefits of barefoot play for child development. Charlotte advocates for early intervention, urging a slow-and-steady approach to foundational skills and holistic learning.