Safeguarding Short: Movember

Welcome back to another episode of our Safeguarding Shorts side series, where we unpack key safeguarding topics and explore their relevance in everyday practice.In this episode, we’re focusing on Movember, exploring men’s mental health, physical health, and the importance of breaking down the stigma that can prevent men from asking for help.We’re joined by Mark, Showcase Training’s Sales Manager, for an open conversation about the challenges men can face when it comes to talking about their health, recognising when they need support, and feeling comfortable reaching out to others. We discuss the pressures and expectations that can make it difficult for men to speak openly about how they’re feeling, why these conversations matter, and the importance of looking after both mental and physical wellbeing.Throughout the episode, we also explore the role of fatherhood, reflecting on the experiences and responsibilities that come with being a dad, the impact this can have on men’s wellbeing, and the importance of creating an environment where fathers feel able to talk about their challenges and ask for support when they need it.As part of Movember, this episode encourages us to challenge stereotypes, start conversations and recognise that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether it’s checking in with a friend, speaking openly about mental health or taking steps to look after our physical health, small actions can make a real difference.Supporting Links:Showcase Monthly Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/showcasetraining/subscribe-to-showcase-trainingMovember: https://uk.movember.com/NHS – Mental Health: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/Mind – Mental Health Support: https://www.mind.org.uk/Showcase Safeguarding Newsfeed: https://showcasetraining.co.uk/safeguarding/Showcase Training are an Early Years specialist training provider based on the south coast of the UK.We’d love your feedback on the episode, including comments and ideas for future discussions. Email us at [email protected] and visit our website for more safeguarding guidance and resources: www.showcasetraining.co.uk.

Welcome to the next episode of Talking Early Years!In this episode, Hannah and Ellen are joined by Louise Mercieca from Tiny Tums from The Health Kick for an open and honest conversation about nutrition and child development, exploring the important role that food and nutrition can play in supporting children's health, wellbeing and development.Louise is a Nutritional Therapist and award-winning author specialising in child nutrition. She works with nurseries and education providers to explore and demonstrate the vital links between food and childhood development. Together, we explore the relationship between nutrition and children's development, looking at how the food children eat can support their physical growth, learning, behaviour, energy levels and overall wellbeing.Throughout the conversation, we reflect on some of the challenges that parents, carers and early years professionals can face when it comes to children's nutrition, as well as the importance of creating positive experiences around food. We discuss healthy eating, children's individual needs, developing positive relationships with food and how adults can support children to make healthy choices in a way that is positive, realistic and age-appropriate.We also take the time to talk about Louise’s background and journey into the world of nutrition, exploring what inspired her to focus on child nutrition and development and how her experience as a Nutritional Therapist and author has shaped the work she does today. Alongside this, we chat about the wider impact of nutrition on children's development and the ways in which nurseries, early years professionals and education providers can support children and families to understand the importance of a healthy, balanced approach to food.Whether you work in the early years sector, support children and families, are studying childcare, or are simply interested in children's nutrition and development, this episode offers practical insights, thoughtful discussion and plenty of ideas to reflect on.Showcase Training are an Early Years specialist training provider based on the south coast of the UK.Meet our hosts, Hannah and Ellen: https://showcasetraining.co.uk/talking-early-years/Find out more about our guest, Louise Mercieca, and Tiny Tums from The Health Kick: https://www.tinytumshealthkick.com/We’d love your feedback on the episode, including comments and ideas for future discussions. Email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠ and visit our website for more safeguarding guidance and resources: ⁠www.showcasetraining.co.uk⁠.

Welcome back to another episode of our Safeguarding Shorts side series, where we unpack key safeguarding topics and explore their relevance in everyday practice.In this episode, we’re focusing on Breast Cancer Awareness Month, exploring the importance of breast awareness, recognising potential signs and symptoms, and understanding why knowing your own body matters.Ellen shares a personal story about her experience of going for a breast check, highlighting the importance of seeking advice and getting any changes checked. We discuss some of the signs and symptoms to be aware of, the importance of knowing what is normal for you, and why checking your breasts regularly can help you recognise changes.Throughout the conversation, we also explore the importance of breast awareness for both women and men. Breast cancer can affect anyone, and understanding the signs, knowing when to seek medical advice, and feeling comfortable having conversations about breast health are important for everyone.As always, this episode encourages reflection, awareness and open conversations, helping listeners feel more informed and confident about looking after their health and supporting those around them.Supporting Links:Showcase Safeguarding Page: https://showcasetraining.co.uk/safeguarding/Breast Cancer Now: ⁠https://breastcancernow.org/NHS Breast Cancer Symptoms: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer-in-women/Showcase Training are an Early Years specialist training provider based on the south coast of the UK.Meet our hosts, Hannah and Ellen: https://showcasetraining.co.uk/talking-early-years/We’d love your feedback on the episode, including comments and ideas for future discussions. Email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠ and visit our website for more safeguarding guidance and resources: ⁠www.showcasetraining.co.uk⁠.

Welcome to the next episode of Talking Early Years!This is a special video episode of Talking Early Years! In this episode, Hannah and Ellen are joined by Sam from My Little Explorers Forest School for an open and honest conversation about Forest Schools, outdoor learning and the many ways spending time in nature can support children's development, wellbeing and confidence.Together, we explore what Forest School is all about and the benefits of giving children regular opportunities to learn and explore in natural environments. Sam shares her experience and expertise, offering valuable insights into children's development, independence, confidence, resilience and the importance of allowing children the time and freedom to discover, take appropriate risks and learn through hands-on experiences.Throughout the conversation, we reflect on how outdoor learning can support children's physical, emotional, social and cognitive development, as well as the unique opportunities that natural environments provide for creativity, curiosity and problem-solving. We also discuss the importance of child-led learning, building relationships, developing independence and helping children to develop a sense of connection with the natural world.We also take the time to talk about Sam’s background and journey into Forest School, exploring what inspired her to work in outdoor learning and how her own experiences have shaped the way she supports children. Alongside this, we chat about the Forest School approach, the benefits of learning outdoors and the many opportunities nature provides for children to explore, develop confidence, independence and resilience.Whether you work in the early years sector, support children and families, are studying childcare, or are simply interested in outdoor learning and children's development, this special video episode offers practical insights, thoughtful discussion and plenty of ideas to reflect on.Showcase Training are an Early Years-specialist training provider based on the south coast of the UK.Find out more about our guest, Sam, and My Little Explorers Forest School: www.mylittleexplorers.co.uk/We would love your feedback on the episode, including comments and ideas for future discussions. Email us at [email protected] and visit our website for further resources and reading at www.showcasetraining.co.uk.

Welcome back to another episode of our Safeguarding Shorts side series, where we unpack key safeguarding topics and explore their relevance in everyday practice. In this episode, we're exploring the SEND Code of Practice and what it means for children, families and professionals working across the early years and education sectors. Together, we discuss the purpose of the SEND Code of Practice, the principles that underpin it and how it supports children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities to access the right support at the right time. We explore the importance of early identification, person-centred approaches, partnership working with families, and the graduated approach of Assess, Plan, Do, Review. Throughout the conversation, we reflect on the responsibilities of early years providers, schools and other professionals in creating inclusive environments where every child can thrive. We also discuss how SEND and safeguarding are often closely linked, why understanding children's individual needs is essential to keeping them safe, and how effective communication and multi-agency collaboration can improve outcomes for children and their families. As always, this Safeguarding Short encourages reflection, inclusive practice and professional curiosity, helping listeners build confidence in understanding the SEND Code of Practice and applying its principles within their everyday work. Supporting Links:Showcase Monthly Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/showcasetraining/subscribe-to-showcase-trainingShowcase Safeguarding Newsfeed: Safeguarding - Showcase Training Ltd.SEND Code of Practice: SEND code of practice: 0 to 25 years - GOV.UKHampshire Safeguarding Children Partnership Webinars: https://hampshirescp.event-booking.org.uk/ Showcase Training are an Early Years specialist training provider based on the south coast of the UK.Meet our hosts, Hannah and Ellen:Podcast: Meet the Hosts - Showcase Training Ltd. We'd love your feedback on the episode, including comments and ideas for future discussions. Email us at [email protected] and visit our website for more safeguarding guidance and resources: www.showcasetraining.co.uk.

Welcome to the next episode of Talking Early Years! In this episode, Hannah and Ellen are joined by Corinne and Char from CC Counselling and Art Therapy for an open and honest conversation about supporting children and young people as they navigate change, growth, and the journey towards adulthood. Together, we explore the emotional, social and developmental challenges that can arise as children move through different stages of life, discussing how parents, carers and early years professionals can help build resilience, confidence and emotional wellbeing from the very beginning. Corinne and Char share their expertise as counsellors, offering valuable insights into children's mental health, emotional regulation, relationships and the importance of creating safe spaces where young people feel heard and understood. Throughout the conversation, we reflect on the transition into adulthood and how the foundations laid in the early years can have a lasting impact on independence, identity and wellbeing later in life. We also discuss the role of communication, healthy relationships, self-esteem, creativity and therapeutic approaches in supporting children through periods of change, as well as the importance of recognising when additional support may be needed. Rather than focusing on one specific topic, this episode is a wide-ranging discussion that encourages listeners to think about the whole child, considering both their emotional and developmental needs and how we can better prepare them for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Whether you work in the early years sector, support children and families, are studying childcare, or are simply interested in children's emotional wellbeing, this episode offers practical insights, thoughtful discussion and plenty of ideas to reflect on. Showcase Training are an Early Years-specialist training provider based on the south coast of the UK. Meet our hosts, Hannah and Ellen:Podcast: Meet the Hosts - Showcase Training Ltd. Find out more about our guests, Corinne and Char, at CC Counselling and Art Therapy:https://cccounsellingandarttherapy.co.uk/ We would love your feedback on the episode, including comments and ideas for future discussions. Email us at [email protected] and visit our website for further resources and reading at www.showcasetraining.co.uk.

Welcome back to another episode of our Safeguarding Shorts side series, where we unpack key safeguarding topics and explore their relevance in everyday practice. In this episode, we're discussing Safeguarding in the News and exploring how high-profile news stories can help shape our understanding of safeguarding, professional practice and the wider issues affecting children and young people today. Together, we reflect on recent safeguarding cases and media coverage, considering what these stories can teach us about recognising risk, responding to concerns, multi-agency working, professional curiosity and maintaining a child-centred approach. We also discuss the importance of looking beyond the headlines, understanding the complexities behind safeguarding incidents and considering how lessons learned can strengthen practice across education and early years settings. Throughout the conversation, we explore why staying informed is an important part of safeguarding practice, while also recognising the need to critically evaluate information and avoid assumptions. We discuss how safeguarding continues to evolve, the importance of ongoing professional development, and how national reviews and serious case findings can influence policies, procedures and everyday decision-making. As always, this Safeguarding Short encourages reflection, professional curiosity and continuous learning, helping practitioners remain informed, confident and responsive in protecting children and young people. Supporting Links:Showcase Monthly Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/showcasetraining/subscribe-to-showcase-trainingShowcase Safeguarding Newsfeed: Safeguarding - Showcase Training Ltd.NSPCC CASPAR Newsletter: https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/newsletter/casparHampshire Safeguarding Children Partnership Webinars: https://hampshirescp.event-booking.org.uk/ Showcase Training are an Early Years specialist training provider based on the south coast of the UK.Meet our hosts, Hannah and Ellen:Podcast: Meet the Hosts - Showcase Training Ltd. We'd love your feedback on the episode, including comments and ideas for future discussions. Email us at [email protected] and visit our website for more safeguarding guidance and resources: www.showcasetraining.co.uk.

Welcome to the next episode of Talking Early Years! In this episode, Hannah and Ellen explore one of the biggest milestones in a child's early life: starting school. Together, they discuss what school readiness really means, why it is about so much more than academic ability, and how early years professionals and families can work together to help children feel confident, capable and excited for the transition. Throughout the conversation, we look at the key skills that support a successful start to school, including communication and language, independence, emotional regulation, social development, self-care and resilience. We also challenge some common misconceptions around school readiness, reflecting on the importance of recognising every child's individual stage of development rather than expecting all children to reach the same milestones at the same time. The episode also explores the transition process itself, considering how nurseries and schools can work collaboratively to create positive experiences for children and families. Hannah and Ellen share practical ideas for preparing children for change, reducing anxiety, building confidence and supporting children who may find transitions more challenging. We also discuss the wider role of early years practitioners in helping children develop the characteristics, behaviours and life skills that provide strong foundations not only for starting school, but for lifelong learning and wellbeing. Whether you are an early years practitioner, teacher, parent, carer or student, this episode offers practical advice, thoughtful discussion and reassurance that school readiness is a journey, not a checklist. Showcase Training are an Early Years-specialist training provider based on the south coast of the UK.Meet our hosts, Hannah and Ellen:⁠Podcast: Meet the Hosts - Showcase Training Ltd.⁠ We would love your feedback on the episode, including comments and ideas for future discussions. Email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠ and visit our website for further resources and reading at ⁠www.showcasetraining.co.uk⁠.

Please note: We experienced some internet connectivity issues during recording, which may cause occasional disruption to the audio throughout this episode. We apologise for this and appreciate your understanding - we felt the conversation and content were too important not to share.Welcome back to another episode of our Safeguarding Shorts side series, where we unpack key safeguarding topics and explore their relevance in everyday practice.In this episode, we’re focusing on Online Safety and the growing role the digital world plays in the lives of children and young people. Together, we explore how technology can offer valuable opportunities for learning, communication, and creativity, while also recognising the safeguarding risks that can exist online.Throughout the conversation, we discuss some of the key online safety concerns affecting children today, including social media, gaming, livestreaming, online grooming, inappropriate content, cyberbullying, misinformation, and the increasing influence of algorithms and digital trends. We also reflect on how online risks can often overlap with wider safeguarding concerns, making digital awareness an essential part of everyday practice.Alongside practical safeguarding considerations, we reflect on professional responsibilities within early years and education settings, including recognising signs of online harm, responding appropriately to concerns, and working collaboratively with families to promote safer online experiences for children.As always, this Safeguarding Short encourages reflection, professional curiosity, and child-centred practice, helping listeners build confidence in navigating safeguarding issues within an increasingly digital world.Supporting Links:Showcase Monthly Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/showcasetraining/subscribe-to-showcase-trainingShowcase Safeguarding Newsfeed: https://showcasetraining.co.uk/safeguarding/NSPCC CASPAR Newsletter: https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/newsletter/casparHampshire Safeguarding Children Partnership Webinars: https://hampshirescp.event-booking.org.uk/Showcase Training are an Early Years specialist training provider based on the south coast of the UK.Meet our hosts, Gemma and Ellen:https://showcasetraining.co.uk/2025/01/09/podcast-meet-the-hosts/We’d love your feedback on the episode, including comments and ideas for future discussions.Email us at [email protected] and visit our website for more safeguarding guidance and resources: www.showcasetraining.co.uk.

Welcome to the next episode of Talking Early Years!In this episode, Gemma and Ellen explore the world of child development theorists and the lasting impact their ideas continue to have on early years practice today.Together, the conversation looks at some of the key figures who have shaped our understanding of how children learn and develop, including theorists such as Piaget, Vygotsky, Bowlby and more. We discuss how these theories influence everyday practice within nurseries and early years settings, from play and communication to routines, behaviour, attachment, and learning environments.We also reflect on how child development theories are not just ideas from textbooks, but practical tools that help practitioners understand children’s needs, behaviours, and stages of development more effectively. Throughout the episode, Gemma and Ellen share relatable examples from real nursery experiences and discuss how different theories can overlap, complement one another, or sometimes be misunderstood in practice.Key themes include understanding the importance of attachment and relationships, recognising how children learn through play and interaction, supporting independence and confidence, and considering how practitioners can use theory to inform inclusive and responsive practice.Whether you are studying early years, working within the sector, supporting children at home, or simply interested in child development, this episode offers an accessible and engaging discussion to help bring child development theory to life.Showcase Training are an Early Years-specialist training provider based on the south coast of the UK.Meet our hosts, Gemma and Ellen:https://showcasetraining.co.uk/2025/01/09/podcast-meet-the-hosts/We would love your feedback on the episode, including comments and ideas for future discussions. Email us at [email protected] and visit our website for further resources and reading at www.showcasetraining.co.uk.