Early Excellence Podcast

What happens when you take early years learning outside the classroom — and into the woods?
Re-release: Originally aired on 24 Oct 2025
Claire Underwood shares her journey in early years education, from teaching in affluent areas to leading outdoor learning at Hopping Hill School. She introduces Wonderwood, a nature-based space that inspires creativity and connection, and reflects on the importance of adult engagement, teacher wellbeing, and belonging in early education.
Episode Links
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Explore our Complete Outdoor Learning Solutions

Emma Weston is our guest for this week’s episode of the podcast. Emma is a Learning Designer at Verso International School in Bangkok. As part of the conversation, Emma takes us on a tour of their inspirational learning environments and we also explore how Emma and her team follow children’s interests, and plan fascinating projects.
Episode Links
Discover our support for International Schools & Settings
Read how San Silvestre School in Lima transformed their Early Years and Key Stage One provision through international EYFS consultancy.

This week, we’re joined by Eugene Minogue, Interim Executive Director at Play England. We discuss the vital importance of play and the barriers to it within society. We also explore what needs to happen to create a positive cultural shift around play.
Episode Links
Explore Play England's Official Website
Listen to our Episode with Ruth Lue-Quee

In this episode, Anne Brass and Kate Gingles join us to discuss mixed-age classes and the complexities schools face when change is driven by necessity rather than vision. The conversation explores the difficulty of establishing a clear guiding purpose, the pressures that can lead to structural change, and the limited guidance available for schools navigating transformation in mixed-age classrooms.
Episode Links
Order our New Guide to Mixed-Aged Classes
Discover more from Education Durham
Download the Free School Leader Reflection Tool on Mixed-Aged Classes
Find out more about the Education Durham Mixed Phase Magic guidance books

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