Early Excellence Podcast

This podcast explores the benefits and uses of dough play in early childhood education, emphasizing the creativity and adaptability it offers. It discusses the advantages of having a dedicated dough area, the use of extruders as a resource, and the benefits of using dough as a learning tool. It also mentions incorporating baking and cakes into the dough area and a new online resource for supporting early years practice.

Llewella Ivins, Early Excellence Curriculum Consultant, discusses the benefits of sand play in early childhood education. Topics include exploration, vocabulary development, mathematical concepts, understanding the world, language development, physical development, and social interaction. The chapter also explores the design of a sensory sand area and the educational value of sand play in communication and language development.

In this week’s episode, we revisit Manor Wood Foundation Stage in Leeds to hear all about their wonderfully creative, child-centred approaches in the EYFS.Listen to part 1 of our interview with the Manor Wood teamRead our blog on Building on Children’s InterestsDevelop your practice with Early Excellence

Clare King, Early Excellence Curriculum Consultant, explores the principles of effective continuous provision, emphasizing the negative effects of constantly changing activities on deep learning and independent thinking. Continuous provision supports effective learning characteristics and the development of critical thinking, collaboration, and active learning. Interactions and enabling environments play a crucial role in brain development, while classroom layout and resource selection contribute to effective early years learning.

In this podcast, Andy & Llewella discuss key aspects to remember in September for educators. They talk about being responsive to the needs of students, building authentic relationships, creating a positive classroom climate, setting expectations, and spending quality time with children. These practices help lay the foundations for a successful school year.

Summer Re-Release Episode - We’re joined by Nicky Turner the Early Years Lead for the Astrea Academy Trust. As part of our conversation, we explore what we mean by cultural capital in the early years.Read our Blog "All About Building on Children’s Interests"Access Training on How to Explore and Develop Children’s InterestsWatch our Free Training Video on Developing High Quality Domestic Role Play Provision 

Exploring the issue of over-enhancing in early years education and the importance of continuous provision. The significance of careful planning and creating a stable environment for children's well-being and learning. Emphasis on meaningful enhancements and teaching skills that are transferable to children.

Alison Clark, author of Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child, discusses pressures in early childhood education, slow pedagogies, the influence of the pandemic on education, the relationship between meal times and relationships, and rethinking education for effective learners.

Summer Re-Release Episode - In this week’s podcast episode, Andy is joined by Esther O’Connor, the EYFS Leader at the British School of Brussels. Esther opens the doors to the inspirational EYFS learning environments at the school and describes how children’s fascinations are nurtured as part of their child-centred practice.Take a look at Esther’s photos of their environmentsTake a 3D tour of our centreExplore our complete classroom collections

Summer Re-Release Episode - Welcome to our podcast series for new EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) teachers! Starting a new teaching job is an exciting journey filled with endless possibilities, and we're here to help you navigate it successfully.In Part One, we delved into building strong relationships, a crucial aspect of your role as an EYFS teacher. Now, in Part Two, we go beyond relationships and delve into other essential aspects. Tune in as we discuss routines, share top tips for organizing provisions and resources, and equip you with the necessary tools for a smooth and effective classroom management.But that's not all! In our third and final installment, we shift the focus towards the vital role of the adult in the early years' classroom. Join us as we explore the intricacies of teaching, from whole class instruction to small group activities. We'll dive into the art of facilitating and scaffolding diverse learning experiences, ensuring your students thrive in their educational journey.Whether you're brimming with ideas or feeling a bit overwhelmed, our podcast is the perfect guide to help you confidently step into your new classroom and embark on a rewarding teaching experience. Tune in now to kickstart your EYFS teaching career!Order our Guide to Continuous ProvisionNew to Teaching in the EYFS Webinar PackageRead the Blog