Early Excellence Podcast

Gemma Wales and Sarah Gaughan from Patana School in Bangkok join us for this week’s episode. We discuss how their early years practice has been inspired by Anji Play and discuss key aspects such as the theory, resources, the practice and the impact on the young learners.
Episode Links
Discover our support for International Schools and Settings
Explore more on Anji Play

What does child-centred creative practice really look like in the early years?
Re-release: Originally aired on 9 May 2025
In this episode, Gemma Shadid joins us 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.
Shop our Range of Sensory Resources
Explore the EYFS Framework and its Guidance for Early Years Practice.

Speech Therapist and online educator Joanne Jones joins us on the podcast this week. We discuss positive approaches to supporting speech, language and communication skills in young children.

Episode Links
Explore language-rich environment resources on the Inspiration Hub App
Develop your understanding of language and communication with Let's Get Talking in the EYFS
Read the Blog Navigating the Sea of Talk – why language-rich environments go beyond labels and key words
Invest in The EExREC Assessment Suite

Listen in as we’re joined by Jess Watson and Claire Curtis from the Charnwood Nursery and Preschool Group and discuss all things forest schools. We explore the development of their forest school site, the wonderfully rich experiences provided and the impact on their children.
Episode Links
Find out more about the forest school on their instagram pages @_beyondtheforest @charnwood_nursery_preschool
Discover our new range of outdoor resources
Invest in The EExREC Assessment Suite

What does a transformative learning environment actually look like when a room plan really comes together?
Re-release: Originally aired on 16 May 2025
In this episode, we chat with Rachel Stephenson and Sue Lonsdale from Holme Valley Primary School in Scunthorpe. They share their experience of developing inspirational learning environments and reflect on the impact this had during their recent Ofsted inspection.
Episode Links
Find out more about our Room Planning Service
Explore our Free Room Planning Webinar
Shop our Complete Classroom Solutions