Behind the Practitioner/Educator

Join Emma and Emily as they explore supporting children with English as an Additional Language (EAL) in the early years. From challenging myths about multilingualism to promoting inclusion, belonging and culturally responsive practice, this episode offers practical insights to help practitioners recognise and celebrate the strengths every child brings.Find out more about our EYSEN programme:https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/early-years-SENCOInclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network: Apprenticeships PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network Social Media: Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

An honest conversation about why the mental health and wellbeing of early years practitioners matters, how the demands of the role can affect staff, and what settings can do to create a culture where people feel supported rather than expected to simply “keep going”.Find out more about our EYSEN programme:https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/early-years-SENCOInclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network: Apprenticeships PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network Social Media: Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

This episode explores the impact of everyday transitions on children with SEN in early years settings. Emma and Anna discuss how routine changes, such as moving between activities, mealtimes, and arrivals and departures, can be challenging for some children. They share practical strategies including visual timetables, countdown warnings, simplified language, and allowing extra processing time. The episode highlights the importance of creating predictable routines, using consistent approaches that support all children, and working closely with families to better understand and meet individual transition needs.Find out more about our EYSEN programme:https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/early-years-SENCOInclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network: Apprenticeships PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network Social Media: Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

This episode explores how to support children with SEN and their families as they transition from early years settings to primary school. Emma and Anna discuss the emotional impact of starting school, the importance of early planning, and practical strategies such as information sharing, transition visits, and maintaining consistency between settings.They highlight the role of SENCOs in advocating for children, ensuring support needs are understood, and helping families prepare for the changes ahead. The episode emphasizes that successful transitions are built on strong communication, collaboration, and a focus on each child's strengths and needs.Find out more about our EYSEN programme:https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/early-years-SENCOInclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network: Apprenticeships PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network Social Media: Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

In this episode of Inclusion Starts Here, Emma and Anna explore the role of the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) in early years settings. They discuss why the SENCO role should be a collaborative one, working alongside practitioners, families, and external professionals to create inclusive environments for all children.The conversation highlights the key responsibilities of a SENCO, the common challenges they face, and practical strategies for managing the role effectively. Whether you're new to the position or looking to strengthen your practice, this episode offers valuable advice on building relationships, sharing responsibility across teams, and making the most of available support and resources.Find out more about our EYSEN programme:https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/early-years-SENCOInclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network: Apprenticeships PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network Social Media: Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

More Than a Qualification explores the real challenges facing today’s early years sector and why confidence, inclusion, and practical support matter more than ever. In this first episode, we discuss the growing need for SEND awareness, the pressures practitioners face, and how meaningful professional development can help create better outcomes for children, families, and settings.Find out more about our EYSEN programme:https://www.bestpracticenet.co.uk/early-years-SENCOInclusion Starts Here: The EYSEN PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network: Apprenticeships PodcastSpotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | YouTubeBest Practice Network Social Media: Facebook | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn