Early Excellence Podcast

Gemma Shadid, an Early Years teacher at Lakenham Primary School, dives into the world of child-centered creative practices and the Reggio Emilia approach. She emphasizes the transformative power of sensory experiences in education and how quality materials can enhance artistic expression. Gemma discusses the importance of physical development and movement in learning, advocating for flexibility in the curriculum. Her insights reveal how nurturing curiosity and fostering strong parent-teacher partnerships can create vibrant, engaging learning environments for children.

Kerry Murphy, an Early Years Lecturer and Consultant, discusses her expertise in supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). She highlights common misconceptions and the importance of a personalized, inclusive approach in early education. Kerry advocates for celebrating developmental differences through positive language and holistic practices. She introduces 'inchstones' to recognize small achievements, emphasizing the need for adaptive teaching strategies and creating supportive, language-rich environments for all learners.

Georgina Durrant shares her journey from teacher to SEN advocate, stressing the need for better training, play in learning, and strong parent-teacher collaboration. She discusses supporting speech and language needs, highlighting communication, sensory experiences, and understanding behaviour as communication.Episode LinksExplore our dedicated SEND page with Training, Resources and GuidanceDiscover Georgina's SEN Blog pageShop Georgina's SEND Books

Re-release: Originally aired on 5 May 2023. We talk to Alison Clark about her recent book Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child. As part of the conversation, Alison discusses the pressures within Early Childhood Education and makes the case for slow pedagogies when working with young children.Episode LinksWatch the low Pedagogy-Making Time for Children’s Learning and Development Video ClipOrder a copy of Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried ChildBook your Place on Early Excellence TrainingVisit the Early Excellence Studio

Alison Wain from the National Gallery explores the role of creativity in children’s learning, how young learner engage with art differently than adults, and the gallery’s efforts to make art education accessible. She also shares details about the new family learning centre and the gallery’s 200th anniversary celebrations, including free programs for children and families.Episode LinksExplore the National Gallery’s exhibitions, events, and educational programsLearn more about the National Gallery’s 200th anniversary celebrationsFind art resources and guidance from Early Excellence

Re-release: Originally aired on 3 Nov 2023. Nikki Turner, from the Astrea Multi-Academy Trust, joins us to discuss early literacy, emphasizing storytelling, music, and physical development as key to learning. The discussion highlights the importance of rich language exposure and a holistic teaching approach.Episode LinksBook your Place on Early Excellence TrainingVisit the Early Excellence StudioListen to our Podcast Episode on Brilliant Books and Poems to Inspire Young Writers

Trisha Lee joins us to explore the power of storytelling and poetry in early childhood education, the role of improvisation, and the importance of a rich story diet. Plus, she shares exciting news about her new program, Story Steps!Episode LinksDiscover Trisha Lee's Story Steps ProgrammeSupport Reading and Storytelling Skills at Home with the NEW Going Home Discovery BagsJoin our CPD Course on Strengthening Early Literacy in the EYFS

Re-release: Originally aired on 8 Dec 2023. This episode explores the benefits of outdoor learning in early childhood education, from mental health and development to fostering independence and community. Sarah Watkins discusses the challenges of reclaiming outdoor spaces, balancing risk, and ensuring older students don’t miss out on these vital experiences.Episode LinksOrder your copy of our Early Excellence Guide to Outdoor ProvisionRead our Early Excellence Blog - The Fantastic Possibilities of Learning Outdoors in Cold, Wet and Windy WeatherExplore our range of Outdoor Resources

Caroline 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

Dr Simone Tomaz joins us this week as we explore the importance of physical opportunities for young children and how these experiences support other areas of development. The discussion also covers the balance between sleep, screen time and physical engagement in young children.Episode LinksFind Out About the Work of Dr Simone TomazExplore How to Provide Big Physical Experiences Outdoors With Our "Let’s Step Outside in the EYFS" CPD Training