Reflecting on Physical Development in the EYFS and Primary Education

EYA CEO Neil Leitch discusses current issues and challenges confronting the sector.

Join us for a memorable conversation with trumpeter and teacher Sean Chandler, and BSL interpreter Lizzie Wharton. Sean explains the words and terms about deafness and shares his own experiences of his deaf identity. He tells us about BSL and Lizzie tells us about being a BSL interpreter. You can find the video version of this podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5iFUdxEMmg

Stephen chats with educator, author and neurodiversity champion Frances Akinde about her book 'Be an Ally not a Bystander'. They discuss the benefits of teaching young children about allyship, how bias can show up in educators and how we can turn allyship into a practical part of whole school life.

Support and advice for parents with an autistic child, learning about children through observation, connection and communication, and what to consider if you are an educator working with autistic children. With Zynab Al Bahrani, mum to two autistic sons, Autism Consultant, and speech and language practitioner.

Supporting the early years workforce – what staff and leaders struggle with, what they might need, and how Twinkl’s experienced educators can help. With Tracie Butterfill, National Education Lead EYFS for Twinkl Educational Publishing.

Jules chats with education consultant in nurturing teachers and children, Joanne Lo. They discuss how to develop mindfulness in a learning community, and techniques that educators can start using right now in the day to day of their classrooms.

Jules chats with Glenda Tinney and Natalie MacDonald, both academics in Childhood Youth and Education at University of Wales Trinity St David. They discuss the qualities and knowledge that are embedded in being an early years professional, how to raise the status of the sector, and how they prepare students for the important work they do with children and families.

Stephen chats with Andrew Cartwright and Ben Carr who are the Co-Directors of the North East Coaching Company. They discuss the importance of children being engaged and enjoying physical activity as well as why teaching PE in primary schools can cause anxiety.

Ben and Jules chat with Curtly Ania, nursery owner and mentor for others who are on the journey to opening their own early years setting. Curtly shares practical advice and inspiration, including some of the key things to consider if you are thinking about running a nursery.

Feeling a bit lost with the current Ofsted consultation (deadline April 28th)? Listen in for a friendly chat with Wendy Ratcliff and Caroline Hearn from Ofsted, where we break down the main points to help you feel clearer and ready to share your views. You can give your feedback on the consultation here: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ofsted2025/