Head-to-Head Podcast

Are you considering how best to prepare children for a world that doesn't exist yet? Charlotte Smiles, Headteacher of Upland School has deeply reflected on how to support her pupils to be as prepared as possible to navigate their future life. In this episode, Charlotte shares how her school moved beyond academics to focus on the skills and attitudes children need for the evolving world. Underpinned by rich outdoor learning opportunities, real-life experiences, and a deliberate focus on character, and centralised around the thinking of a backpack analogy - the idea that every child should leave school carrying a set of skills for life's challenges. Charlotte is honest about developments, what changed, what was hard, and why early experiences matter so much. As she puts it, "we need to prepare children for a world we don't yet know," and the results speak for themselves: children's confidence and resilience have grown. If you're rethinking what a primary curriculum is really for, this is a not to be missed episode.

Are you looking to engage your KS1 children in deep, connected, purposeful learning through play in the provision? Hear from Katy Smith, Headteacher at Brookfield Primary School as she takes us through her school's journey of implementing Continuous Provision in KS1. Discover the research that shaped her thinking, consider practical changes to classrooms and timetables, and find out what provision actually looks like for children and staff. Katie is honest about the challenges, clear about the evidence, and passionate about the positive impact that the shift in the pedagogical approach has had for the children – in terms of attitudes, outcomes and attendance! If you're keen to understand more about meaningful and impactful continuous provision in KS1, then this episode is not to be missed!

Are you looking to transform your Reception Assessment systems to ensure they are manageable, meaningful and impactful? In this episode, Anna Hackett and Sally Scott from Focus-Trust share their journey of deepening understanding about child development and strengthening assessment in all of their early years settings. They talk through why this was a priority, how the strategic plan was implemented and what a difference the right tools, including the EExREC assessment suite, made to both professional learning and outcomes for the children. There's lots of reflection about the development journey, and honest insight about the impact of the EExREC tools through the echelons of leadership in their Trust, as well as the lived experiences in the classrooms with real staff and real children. If you're keen to implement principled EYFS assessment consistently in your School or Trust, ensuring it is useful and used, then this episode is for you!

Are you keen to develop a strategy that drives Trust wide improvements in teaching, learning & outcomes across your EYFS? Listen to Lisa Whiteley, Trust Partner at Learners’ Trust, as she shares her journey in building a strategic and comprehensive approach driving EYFS improvements at scale. Lisa talks through the importance of establishing a clear vision and how collaborative research shaped and challenged their thinking. Hear about approaches to curriculum design and resource development, as well as practical tools to support provision, progression and adult interactions. Lisa offers honest insight into the leadership and collaboration required to achieve impact and success. An essential listen for Trust Leads, Heads and EYFS Leaders looking to raise the standards and outcomes in their EYFS in school, or across a MAT

Are you keen to find out about Ofsted inspection under the new Inspection Framework? Hear from Andy Kitchen, Headteacher at Stafford Leys Primary School as he shares his recent experience of an Ofsted inspection. With invaluable information about the initial phone call through to day one inspection activities and the shaping of second day lines of enquiry. Andy talks through the ongoing professional discussion and reflection opportunities over the course of the process. He discusses preparation strategies, key focus areas including inclusion and early years, and how to own the process to showcase the school's strengths. He offers honest thoughts and practical suggestions to help leaders navigate inspection with clarity and purpose. An invaluable discussion for school leaders looking to approach Ofsted with confidence and lead their team through the process effectively.

Are you exploring what Continuous Provision looks like in Key Stage 1 and how can it work in practice? In this episode Cassie Puplett shares her experiences as a Headteacher exploring continuous provision beyond the early years. The conversation focuses on evidence-informed practice, the vital link between EYFS and KS1, and the balance between teaching and learning through play. Cassie reflects on her hybrid approaches in Year 1 and Year 2, the importance of well-considered learning environments, and the positive impact these approaches have on children’s learning and development. She shares practical tips and reflective insights for schools looking to implement and refine continuous provision beyond EYFS. A thoughtful and practical discussion for educators interested in extending continuous provision, strengthening progression, and continually improving learning experiences for children in KS1. Episode Links Explore our KS1 Conference with Keynote Speaker Professor Julie Fisher

Is your curriculum designed to truly meet the needs of every child, especially the most vulnerable? In this podcast episode Brogan Taylor shares her inspiring curriculum journey at Somercotes Infant and Nursery School. She reflects on the importance of deeply understanding school context, planning intentionally for vulnerable learners, and creating a curriculum that is purposeful, inclusive, and aspirational. The conversation explores the 10 key steps taken to shape meaningful learning experiences, the role of key texts, and the value of enriching opportunities that support children’s emotional and social development. Brogan offers practical insights and reflections for educators looking to strengthen and refine their own curriculum practice. An inspirational listen for anyone looking to design curriculum with clarity, compassion, and a strong focus on what children truly need to thrive.

Are you placing a focus on SEND and Inclusion? This month, Catherine Mole, CEO of Dingley’s Promise, shares her inspiring journey and the charity’s mission to champion inclusion for children with SEND in early years education. She reflects on the importance of advocacy, the challenges of funding, and the transformative power of policy change. The conversation explores how educators can build confidence, celebrate diversity, and empower families through meaningful support and high-quality early education. Gain inspiration from this episode and discover how a positive, inclusive approach to early years education can change outcomes, and lives, for children and families alike. Reflect on this thought-provoking discussion and the key messages.

Are you considering expanding your nursery provision and exploring the School Based Nursery Grant application process? In this episode, Deputy Headteacher Abbas Jaffer shares the journey of expanding the 2YO nursery provision at Minet Infant and Nursery School using the Government’s School Based Nursery Grant. He reflects on the vision and values that underpin their early years practice and the early successes following the expansion to offer new 2YO provision. With invaluable information about the expansion as a whole and great insights about the grant application process – it’s a must listen for any leader looking to expand their nursery provision in school. Tune in to hear about a successful nursery expansion journey! Episode Links Discover how Early Excellence can Support you with your Bid for the School-Based Nursery Grant Read Case Studies from Schools Who Were Successful in Phase 1 of the School-Based Nursery Grant Explore More About the School or Arrange a Visit

Are you grappling with how to strengthen support for children with SEND in the EYFS? Hear from SEND specialist Helen Mohatta and draw on her expertise and deep knowledge of both the EYFS and SEND. Helen reflects on the power of early intervention, the design of effective learning environments, and the vital role of play in supporting all children. She offers thoughtful insights and actionable advice for educators working to meet the diverse needs of children with SEND and explores practical strategies and successful projects that have made a difference in inclusive practice. Reflect on this thoughtful discussion as part of your journey to enabling every child to thrive!

Are you looking to successfully establish Continuous Provision in KS1? In this episode, Kate Davies and Becca Taylor from The Pines School share their journey of embedding continuous provision in KS1. They explore the vital role of play in children's learning, reflect on the challenges and triumphs of implementation, and offer insights into the practical and cultural shifts required to make it work. The conversation highlights the importance of strong leadership, collaborative teams, and a clear, shared vision to build an engaging and enabling learning environment. Discover how to reshape KS1 pedagogy to bring the curriculum to life, making learning more meaningful for children and the teaching team! Explore the KS1 Roadshow

How effectively do your Reception Baseline Assessment processes support your children, the team, teaching and learning? Phil Armstrong and Sarah Carey are joined by Helen Bingham, Early Years Lead at the Aspire Trust to discuss the impact of the EExREC tool. Together, they explore the challenges of Baseline Assessment practices and explore EExREC – a new, holistic assessment tool designed to support meaningful practice and provision at the start of the Reception year. The conversation highlights the impact of EExREC in providing well-informed data, supporting professional development, enabling evaluations to inform practice and giving insight into each unique child. Spark reflection and inspire impactful Reception Baseline Assessment in your school.

Are you responsible for leading impactful improvement in the EYFS? In this episode, Kate Eastwood, Director of Early Years at Quest Trust, shares her focus development projects to establish a progressive curriculum, embed effective provision and to expand Nursery provision with the DfE funding. The discussion explores the implementation and impact of a high-quality text curriculum and the importance of creating inspiring learning environments which connect to the curriculum. Hear key leadership messages about the value of CPD, collaboration, ongoing evaluation and strategic planning in achieving educational excellence in the early years. Tune in to reflect on leading change through collaboration, strategy, and professional growth.

Are you an aspiring leader, considering progression into a Headship? Join Becky Sawford, Head Teacher at Crosshall Infant School Academy Trust and hear about her journey into Headship. Becky shares her experiences from starting as a new teacher to becoming a senior leader and then taking the step into Headship. The conversation explores the challenges and successes she has faced, from financial management and budgeting to building strong relationships with staff and parents. She offers valuable advice for aspiring Headteachers, reflecting on the rewards and responsibilities of the role. Tune in for this insightful discussion on leadership development and embracing the role of becoming a new Headteacher!

Are you looking to rapidly transform practice and provision in KS1? Hear from Helen Davidson-McMullen, Headteacher at Wheldon Infant and Nursery Schools as she discusses her recent rapid development journey to overhaul practice and provision across the whole of KS1. Find out how the Early Excellence KS1 Roadshow was the catalyst for change, helping to crytsalise Helen’s vision. Reflect on her strategic plans, staff training and the steps of the improvement journey to improve the children’s learning outcomes. Discover the overwhelmingly positive impact on the children’s behaviour, mental health, and engagement, emphasising the value of innovation and flexibility in teaching. A must-listen for anyone looking to reimagine their KS1 pedagogy! Episode Links Join our KS1 Roadshow at a venue near you

Are you striving to support all children to learn, develop and achieve success? Listen to Victoria Pettett, Headteacher of Westlands Primary School, as she shares her school’s journey to strengthen teaching and learning approaches that effectively support, engage and meet the needs of children with SEND. Victoria discusses the power of play-based learning, the importance of nurture spaces and creating enabling learning environments. She talks specifically about bespoke provisions in her school and the successful impact of these approaches for those children across her school with SEND. This is an insightful conversation exploring both strategic thinking and practical ideas! Explore how we can help with the needs of children with SEND in the Early Years

Is strengthening EYFS practice your school improvement priority? Hear from Executive Head Teacher Howard Seymour about the critical importance of early years education. Howard shares insights from his extensive career, detailing his journey to better understand and support young learners in the EYFS. He discusses successful development projects, underpinned by CPD for staff, professional discussions to develop a shared understanding and creating a positive climate for learning through high expectations and enabling learning environments. This thoughtful discussion with practical tips is an invaluable listen for any Leader!

Are you keen to explore how to implement continuous provision in KS1? Join Kristy Gerrity, senior leader at Larkfield Primary School, as she shares the school’s journey in embedding continuous provision into KS1. Kristy discusses how play-based learning can create a rich, engaging environment that fosters children’s natural curiosity and exploration, and reflects on the challenges of resource management, the impact of staff development, and the power of observing children in action. With practical tips and insights, this episode is packed with strategies to help schools implement continuous provision in KS1. Tune in for practical advice and inspiration from the front line of continuous provision in KS1!

Are you navigating the challenge of higher numbers of children with significant needs in your school? Listen to Anna Wells, fresh from Headship, talk about her strategic thinking and successful improvement project to better support the needs of children with high levels of SEND in her school. Anna discusses many key points including her rationale, specific professional development, ensuring an inclusive community and she explains the journey to create a bespoke provision and a tailored curriculum to enable the success and progress of all children. An invaluable listen for any Leader seeking practical advice or considering a similar development journey.

Are you looking to transform teaching and learning in Key Stage 1? Listen to Jude Arkwright, Headteacher of St Michael's Primary School, as she shares her school’s journey of implementing continuous provision beyond the early years. Jude highlights how it crucially contributes to children's development and learning, the importance of a shared vision among staff, and explores the challenges of timetabling and delivering the National Curriculum. Jude also discusses the significance of focusing on key learning objectives, approaches to documenting learning and incorporating creativity into teaching. A must listen for any Head or Leader looking to adopt continuous provision in Key Stage 1 Explore our Blog "Top 10 Tips for Continuous Provision in KS1" Join our KS1 Roadshow 2025