Early Excellence Podcast

Dr Gai Lindsay joins us this week on the podcast as we explore the rich learning opportunities provided by visual art experiences. We discuss the wonderful nature of creative experiences for young children and offer practical guidance for teachers and practitioners.Episode LinksExplore Dr Gai Lindsay’s websiteOrder a copy of her book on AmazonDiscover Early Excellence resources to facilitate creativity 

In this episode, Jonathan Tremewan and Jess Denning from the BBC Bitesize team join us as we explore their recent projects and resources to inspire young learners.Episode LinksExplore BBC BitesizeDiscover Early Excellences Free Learning Resources

In this, our 200th Episode, we’re joined by Nancy Stewart. We explore Nancy’s career at the forefront of early years education and also the new updated version of Birth to 5 Matters.Episode LinksExplore the Birth to 5 Matters GuidanceRead the Survey ResponsesInvest in the Continuous Provision GuidesDiscover the EExREC Baseline Assessment Tool

What happens when you take early years learning outside the classroom — and into the woods?Re-release: Originally aired on 24 Oct 2025Claire Underwood shares her journey in early years education, from teaching in affluent areas to leading outdoor learning at Hopping Hill School. She introduces Wonderwood, a nature-based space that inspires creativity and connection, and reflects on the importance of adult engagement, teacher wellbeing, and belonging in early education.Episode LinksJoin the New Outdoor Roadshow at a Location Near YouExplore our Complete Outdoor Learning Solutions

Emma Weston is our guest for this week’s episode of the podcast. Emma is a Learning Designer at Verso International School in Bangkok. As part of the conversation, Emma takes us on a tour of their inspirational learning environments and we also explore how Emma and her team follow children’s interests, and plan fascinating projects.Episode LinksDiscover our support for International Schools & SettingsRead how San Silvestre School in Lima transformed their Early Years and Key Stage One provision through international EYFS consultancy.

This week, we’re joined by Eugene Minogue, Interim Executive Director at Play England. We discuss the vital importance of play and the barriers to it within society. We also explore what needs to happen to create a positive cultural shift around play.Episode LinksExplore Play England's Official WebsiteListen to our Episode with Ruth Lue-Quee

In this episode, Anne Brass and Kate Gingles join us to discuss mixed-age classes and the complexities schools face when change is driven by necessity rather than vision. The conversation explores the difficulty of establishing a clear guiding purpose, the pressures that can lead to structural change, and the limited guidance available for schools navigating transformation in mixed-age classrooms.Episode LinksOrder our New Guide to Mixed-Aged ClassesDiscover more from Education DurhamDownload the Free School Leader Reflection Tool on Mixed-Aged ClassesFind out more about the Education Durham Mixed Phase Magic guidance books

Practical guidance for planning, resourcing, and delivering high-quality outdoor learning in the EYFS.Re-release: Originally aired on 15 Nov 2024In this episode, Evan McCormick explores the key principles of effective outdoor learning in the early years. We discuss the importance of thoughtful organisation, purposeful resourcing, and careful planning, alongside the vital role of the adult in supporting learning outdoors. The conversation focuses on creating outdoor environments that are engaging, well-structured, and responsive to children’s needs.Episode LinksJoin The Outdoor RoadshowIs Outdoor Learning a key area for development at your school or setting? Find Out About our TrainingOur Team of Curriculum Consultants are available to support you in developing your outdoor space. Find Out About our Outdoor Planning ServiceListen To Evan's First Podcast Episode

This week, we’re joined by Leanne Foster as we discuss her experience of a pilot Ofsted inspection at her school. We discuss the focus on the EYFS and the conversations that Leanne and her team had with the inspectors as part of the process.Episode LinksExplore more from Ofsted at our Senior Leader BriefingStay up to date with our Early Years Update Blogs

In this week’s episode we meet with Charlotte Knight- Benjafield and Rob Spillane from Wellington College in Shanghai. We discuss their bilingual and immersive curriculum and how they use project based learning to fully embed effective learning characteristics.Episode LinksDiscover our support for International Schools and SettingsExplore more about Wellington College