Early Excellence Podcast

Practical guidance for planning, resourcing, and delivering high-quality outdoor learning in the EYFS.
Re-release: Originally aired on 15 Nov 2024
In this episode, Evan McCormick explores the key principles of effective outdoor learning in the early years. We discuss the importance of thoughtful organisation, purposeful resourcing, and careful planning, alongside the vital role of the adult in supporting learning outdoors. The conversation focuses on creating outdoor environments that are engaging, well-structured, and responsive to children’s needs.
Episode Links
Join The Outdoor Roadshow
Is Outdoor Learning a key area for development at your school or setting? Find Out About our Training
Our Team of Curriculum Consultants are available to support you in developing your outdoor space. Find Out About our Outdoor Planning Service
Listen To Evan's First Podcast Episode

This week, we’re joined by Leanne Foster as we discuss her experience of a pilot Ofsted inspection at her school. We discuss the focus on the EYFS and the conversations that Leanne and her team had with the inspectors as part of the process.
Episode Links
Explore more from Ofsted at our Senior Leader Briefing
Stay up to date with our Early Years Update Blogs

In this week’s episode we meet with Charlotte Knight- Benjafield and Rob Spillane from Wellington College in Shanghai. We discuss their bilingual and immersive curriculum and how they use project based learning to fully embed effective learning characteristics.
Episode Links
Discover our support for International Schools and Settings
Explore more about Wellington College

In this episode, we explore the key features of effective practice outdoors with the inspirational Kathryn Solly. As part of the conversation, we discuss the importance of creating a positive culture towards outdoor learning and explore a broad range of rich outdoor experiences.
Episode Links
Discover our brand new Outdoor Range
Watch the Outdoor Range launch video
Explore the Outdoor Roadshow
Order Kathryn's Book "Leading Learning Outdoors from Birth to Seven"

In this episode, Lana Webster shares her experience of Forest School and outdoor learning, exploring how child-led experiences in nature support wellbeing, skill development, and meaningful learning. Lana reflects on creating safe, magical outdoor environments, working with families, and the positive impact outdoor provision has on both children and staff.
Episode Links
Discover our brand new Outdoor Range
Watch the Outdoor Range launch video
Explore the Outdoor Roadshow
Learn more about Lana’s Forest School approach