Ofsted 2026: An EYFS Lead’s Experience

Beyond the Desk: Why Children Need Play

What happens when children move from Reception into formal classrooms with desks, worksheets and less play? In this episode of Leading With, Michelle Windridge speaks to Ruth Lue-Quee about why play based learning is essential for children’s development, the “cliff edge” into Year 1, and what schools can do differently to help children truly thrive. A must listen for school leaders and educators.

Beyond the Myths: Teaching writing in the modern classroom

Why do so many children struggle with writing, even when they can read confidently? In this episode of Leading With, Nicola Romaine is joined by Dr Tim Mills, lead drafter for primary English in the revised national curriculum, to unpack the research behind writing, cognitive load, sentence structure and motivation. From handwriting and spelling to AI, working memory and why writing is actually harder than reading, this practical conversation explores what schools need to know to support confident, capable writers.

Closing the Gap: Can University Partnerships Improve Maths Attainment?

What does effective intervention actually look like in secondary maths?In this episode of Leading With, Pete Mattock is joined by guests from UCL to explore how university partnerships and structured tutoring programmes are helping schools tackle the maths attainment gap. From confidence and attainment to sustainability and implementation, this episode looks at what it really takes to make interventions work.

AI: Your Teachers Are Using it. It’s Time to Lead It

Your teachers are already using AI. Are you leading it or catching up? In this episode of Leading With, Alex Russell OBE and Dr Sarah Alcock unpack what’s really happening in schools right now. With most teachers already using AI, leadership can’t afford to sit back. This episode explores how to move from awareness to whole school implementation without losing control. AI is already in your classrooms. It’s time to lead.

Ready or Not: Rethinking Phonics in Reception

In this episode of Leading With, we unpack the phrase “not ready for phonics” and why it might be holding children back. Focusing on Reception, we explore what strong foundations really look like, why waiting isn’t the answer, and how early identification and targeted support can close gaps before they widen. A must-listen for school leaders and EYFS teachers looking to take a more confident, effective approach to early phonics.