I have worked in this sector for over 20 years and its always interesting when I get asked what I would like the sector to look like in 5 years times. However, to answer this question we need to look back because as Winston Churchill says:
"The farther backward you can look, the farther forward you…
There can be no doubt that our sector is facing a workforce crisis on a scale not seen before. By celebrating the sector and showing why the First Five Years Count we can start to take control of some of the challenges we see.
We know that a highly qualified, skilled, and motivated workforce are crucial…
Wellbeing is crucial at any time, but particularly in light of the pandemic and the challenges it presents. Dr Tina Rae outlines how schools can use therapeutic tools to support pupils’ mental health and wellbeing.
A new role and a big ask
Schools are being expected to offer an increasing amount of support for children and…
Is behaviour good or bad? There are obviously behaviours that are ‘bad’ and it’s clear that the behaviours that impact others physically or emotionally, destroy property or abuse others, are not acceptable and not the way human beings treat each other. However, many behaviours seen as ‘inappropriate’, ‘bad’ or ‘not acceptable’ within schools and early…
For any of us to be ready and able to learn effectively, we need to have the right environment where we feel safe and emotionally secure. At times, the classroom can be an overwhelming place for some children. Having a calming space within the setting provides a safe place to calm, regulate and learn valuable…
Often, in my advisory teacher role, I have the privilege to sit and observe just one learner in a lesson. It is a really special thing for me to do as I get to learn about how they learn. I am able to intensely focus on their strengths, strategies, independence and engagement and share in…
Jamel is an Early Years Educator, Consultant and Children’s Author. He has worked in the sector for over 18 years. Although Early years is his specialty, Jamel has also worked in youth clubs, and schools, closely supporting children with SEND. Jamel has stood on numerous platforms and prestigious establishments as a Keynote speaker at…
Kate Moxley is a proud and passionate Early Years Consultant, Trainer, and Speaker specialising in wellbeing and mental health. Founder of the Wellness for All training company and a Mental Health First Aid England Instructor Member, she travels across the UK nurturing teams to develop mentally healthy working environments that improves outcomes for children. …
Alistair Bryce-Clegg is an award-winning Early Years author, blogger, product designer and advocate of play. His work has been published in several books and magazines, and he has worked as an Early Years advisor for various film and television projects. Alongside support and training for a range of settings, schools and parents, he also works…
Having a motivated, well-supported and knowledgeable workforce within early years settings is key to supporting child development and wellbeing. Yet, despite its sheer importance, the early years workforce in the UK continues to face a multitude of challenges including high workloads, low pay, limited opportunities for training and career progression and a lack of funding…