Head-to-Head Podcast Early Excellence

Are you a School Leader interested in current Educational Research?
Hear from Phil Armstrong, Senior Education Lead at Early Excellence, as he discusses his current education doctorate journey, research and thesis. Phil shares his motivations, challenges, and rewards of his academic pursuit, provoking thought about the significance of professional identity and the pivotal role of school leaders in developing early years education. Phil’s deep knowledge and passion for supporting leaders to navigate the EYFS, with a focus on enhancing educational practices centred around the child, shines through.
Tune in for enlightening insights, sure to encourage your own self-reflection!

Ever wondered how continuous provision could transform teaching and learning Key Stage 1?
Be inspired by the impactful journey of Priory Witham Academy, who have adopted continuous provision into Year 1, then overtime into Year 2 and now into KS2!                                                                School Leaders Amy and Kirsty share insights into their strong rationale, some of the challenges and the profound impact of this pedagogical approach for the children. From hands-on experiences to a carefully designed curriculum, discover the secrets behind their success and gain practical tips for implementation to unlock lasting effects on learning.
This is a ‘not to be missed’ episode for anyone thinking of introducing continuous provision into KS1!
Discover a KS1 Roadshow event at a school near you

Are you considering taking the step into Headship? 
Hear from Sally Appadu, as she shares her journey from deliberating headship, to securing and embracing her new role as Headteacher. She reflects on the importance of being guided by strong values and ethics, developing her leadership style and nurturing professional relationships. Sally shares successes from her first term including fostering a growth mindset across her team, strengthening an effective learning environment in her setting, initiating a transition project across the local area and much more!
Tune in to gain invaluable insights and inspiration from Sally's journey into Headship!

How do you facilitate effective Early Years improvement across your Trust?
Be Inspired! Listen to Nursery World Winner for Outstanding Contribution, Helen Bingham, as she shares her experiences in her role as EYFS MAT Lead for Aspire Academy Trust. Hear how she strategically supports colleagues outside the EYFS, enables improvement in practice across the EYFS teams and consider Trust wide conversations which build a shared understanding and positive culture about EYFS.
Helen’s knowledge and passion makes this a great listen!

A Moment to Pause and Reflect
Phil Armstrong Senior Education Lead at Early Excellence joins the podcast to reflect on his own experiences through this autumn term alongside that of the schools and settings he has worked with. He shares aspects of best practice and successful school improvement, explains the educational research journey that he is currently undertaking and considers the emerging picture of what may lay ahead for schools in the new year. It’s a great end of term listen!

What are the Golden Threads and Cornerstones of your Curriculum?
Be inspired! Listen to Executive Head, Lynsey Hadfield and Deputy Head Lizzy Battersby as they talk through the conception of their curriculum. Hear how it is underpinned by the culture, vision and beliefs of the setting and reflect on how they have achieved a progressive curriculum which enables and celebrates success for every child.
An excellent listen for any school or setting with 2-5year old children