

Best Practice Network - Apprenticeships
Best Practice Network
The Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, find out more at https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/apprenticeships
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 6, 2026 • 17min
Keeping Well
Explore practical ideas for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Learn about the stress container metaphor and effective coping strategies. Discover how intentional actions can enhance resilience and how leaders can promote a culture of wellness. Delve into the inverted-U theory, highlighting how moderate pressure can boost performance. The discussion also covers the Five Ways to Well-being, offering simple daily practices to enhance your life. Tune in for actionable tools to support your health and balance.

Dec 16, 2025 • 34min
Coaching with Confidence with Clare Smale
Explore what it means to coach with confidence in this reflective conversation with EMCC's Global Coach of the Year, Clare Smale.You will consider how toolkits can support (not define) your practice, how supervision strengthens your self-awareness and why embracing the belief that “I am enough” is central to knowing who you are as a coach.https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/boost

Dec 5, 2025 • 29min
Festive Wellbeing
In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, hosts Emma Minchella and Tatia Singleton come together for a festive special dedicated to apprentice well-being!As the year draws to a close, they explore the unique pressures apprentices face during the holiday season and share practical, uplifting strategies for staying balanced, motivated, and mindful.

Nov 25, 2025 • 17min
Time Tactics
Learn how to take control of your time with practical strategies you can apply straight away: The Eisenhower Matrix, MITs and The 4D Model.You will explore time blocking, the 80% rule and ways to reduce interruptions and task switching - helping you focus, protect your energy and work more effectively as a busy leader or team member.Time Tactics - PowerPoint

Nov 13, 2025 • 32min
Association of Apprentices - Overcoming Challenges as an Apprentice
Kym Lewis, the Partnerships Manager at the Association of Apprentices, shares insights on how the AoA empowers apprentices. She highlights resources like the Connect platform, which combats isolation by offering networking opportunities. Kym also discusses AOA Learn's diverse courses for continuous professional development and practical tips for balancing study with work. For those navigating their careers, the Post-Apprenticeship Recognition Scheme provides valuable credentials. Tune in for a wealth of guidance on enhancing the apprenticeship experience!

Nov 4, 2025 • 41min
Exploring Equality, Diversity and Inclusion with Jamel Carly
In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, hosts Emma Minchella, Tatia Singleton, and Supriya Menon are joined by Jamel Carly, an inspiring advocate for equality and diversity in early years and education. Together, they explore what true inclusion means, why diversity matters at every level of education, and how we can all take practical steps to create more inclusive environments.

Oct 24, 2025 • 14min
Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
Delve into the transformative power of emotional intelligence in leadership. Discover how EQ differentiates managers from true leaders and acts as a cohesive force within teams. Learn to balance empathy with operational needs while recognizing personal biases. Hear a poignant staff story that reshaped a leader's understanding of emotional impact. Enhance your EQ through active listening and mindful practices, empowering you to connect authentically and foster resilience within your team.

Oct 8, 2025 • 16min
Problem-solving Behaviours
Discover how to strengthen your problem-solving behaviours by exploring practical models like the ‘5 Whys’ and ‘Fishbone Diagram’. Reflect on root cause analysis, future focus and positive approaches to challenges, helping you find sustainable solutions in your work, your leadership and your everyday life.Problem-solving behaviours - participant PowerPointProblem-solving behaviours - participant resource pack

Sep 19, 2025 • 56min
Men working in Early Years and Education
In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast Host Emma Minchella, Ant Welch and Supriya Menon are joined by the co-owner of paints pots nurseries, Chair of Early Years Academy and longtime advocate for increasing male representation in the early years David Wright. Together we discuss the importance of male representation in early years and education and how to consciously support males joining the sector.https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/boost

Sep 9, 2025 • 42min
Grief in Early Years and Education
In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, host Emma Minchella is joined by Deborah Brown, Director of Grief Information for Teachers and Services, to explore the sensitive but vital topic of grief in early years and education. Together, they discuss how bereavement, separation, loss, and change impact children, and the role educators play in supporting them through these experiences.https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/boost


