Early Excellence Podcast

Re-release: Originally aired on 11 Nov 2022 In this episode, we talk to Trisha Lee all about the importance of nurturing and celebrating children’s storytelling. Trisha tells us all about her work in schools and also about her new book, The Growth of a Storyteller, which explores the practice of using helicopter stories to value, nurture and inspire young learners. Episode Links * Order your copy of The Growth of a Storyteller [https://earlyexcellence.com/go-shopping/the-growth-of-a-storyteller-helicopter-stories-in-action/] * Explore our Themed Role Play Resources [https://shop.earlyexcellence.com/early-years-indoor-resources/early-years-role-play/fantasy-themed-role-play]

This week we chat with Rachel Stephenson and Sue Lonsdale from Holme Valley Primary School in Scunthorpe. We discuss their recent Ofsted inspection and the development of their inspirational learning environments. Episode Links * Find out more about our Room Planning Service [https://earlyexcellence.com/get-equipped/transform-your-classroom/] * Shop our Complete Classroom Solutions [https://shop.earlyexcellence.com/complete-early-years-classroom-sets/fully-equipped-classrooms]

Gemma Shadid joins us this week to explore the power of child-centred creative practice in the EYFS. We discuss the Reggio Emilia approach, the role of quality materials in art, and how sensory experiences and cultural diversity shape children’s learning and identity. Episode Links  * Transform your Learning Environment with our Room Planning Service [https://earlyexcellence.com/get-equipped/transform-your-classroom/]. * Shop our NEW Range of Sensory Resources [https://shop.earlyexcellence.com/early-years-indoor-resources/investigations/early-years-sensory-resources] * Explore the EYFS Framework and its Guidance for Early Years Practice. [https://earlyexcellence.com/get-equipped/policies-and-frameworks/]

Re-release: Originally aired on 6 May 2022. This week, Andy interviews Kerry Murphy, Early Years Lecturer and Consultant, about her new book A Guide to SEND in the Early Years. Andy and Kerry discuss and reflect on EYFS practice, how best to support children with SEND and also challenge some common misconceptions. Episode Links * Order Kerry’s book: A Guide to SEND in the Early Years [https://earlyexcellence.com/go-shopping/a-guide-to-send-in-the-early-years/] * Explore our dedicated page all about SEND in the Early Years [https://earlyexcellence.com/send-in-early-years/] * Shop our Sensory Learning Resource Collections [https://shop.earlyexcellence.com/early-years-indoor-resources/investigations/early-years-sensory-resources]

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 Links * Explore our dedicated SEND page with Training, Resources and Guidance [https://earlyexcellence.com/send-in-early-years/] * Discover Georgina's SEN Blog page [https://senresourcesblog.com] * Shop Georgina's SEND Books [https://senresourcesblog.com/category/my-books/]