Thriving Together:

In this episode of the Thriving Together podcast, we are joined by Joanna Wlaszczyk , Lead for the EAL Team in Herefordshire, for an in-depth conversation about supporting children with English as an Additional Language in early years and school settings.Over the course of this hour-long episode, we explore practical guidance, inclusive practice, and the vital role of partnership with families.What we discuss in this episode:Understanding EAL in the Early Years and SchoolsWhat EAL means in practice and the diversity within EAL learnersValuing home languages, culture, and identityCommon myths and misconceptions about EAL and language developmentGood Practice in Supporting Children with EALCreating language-rich, inclusive environmentsQuality first teaching strategies that support language developmentObservation and assessment: understanding progress without over-identifying needSupporting communication, confidence, and belongingSupport from the Herefordshire EAL TeamOverview of the role and remit of the EAL TeamHow settings can access advice, guidance, and supportWorking alongside practitioners to build capacity and confidenceWorking in Partnership with Parents and FamiliesBuilding trusting relationships with familiesValuing parents as experts in their childSupporting communication when English is an additional languagePractical approaches to engagement, translation, and communicationKey Messages for PracticeWhy inclusive EAL practice benefits all childrenThe importance of understanding context, not just languageBuilding confidence in staff to support EAL learners effectivelyThis episode is ideal for early years practitioners, school staff, DSLs, SENCOs, leaders, and anyone working with children and families.It offers both strategic insight and practical advice to support inclusive, culturally responsive practice.

A 1‑hour conversation for Early Years educatorsSo many adults wince when they hear the question: “Are you good at maths?”In this honest and thought‑provoking one‑hour podcast episode, hosts Emily and Carli unpack why this question still carries so much baggage — especially in the Early Years.They’re joined by Fiona Wood, renowned Early Years Improvement Advisor, Assistant Maths Hub Lead for the SHaW Maths Hub, consultant editor for Numberblocks, and author of Mastering Number for Reception.Together, Emily, Carli and Fiona explore why Early Years maths is under such national focus, from Ofsted and the DfE to research linking early mathematical experiences with long‑term life chances and wellbeing. They dig into the realities practitioners face: low confidence, fixed mindsets, unhelpful labels and the lingering impact of adults’ own school experiences.Across the episode, listeners will reflect on:Why maths in the EYFS is not about worksheets or formal teachingHow attitudes and language shape children’s mathematical identitiesWhat inclusive maths practice really looks like — and why equity matters more than equalityKey research influencing practice and inspection expectationsWhat Ofsted means by “teaching” in Early Years mathsWhere settings should start when they want to improve — doing fewer things, betterLocal and national support available to build practitioner confidenceThis episode is reflective, reassuring and rooted in real‑world practice. It reminds us that maths is for every child — and every adult. With the right understanding and approaches, maths becomes meaningful, joyful and deeply empowering.Whether you’re a classroom practitioner, leader or advisor, this episode will leave you feeling clearer, calmer and more confident about maths in the Early Years.

Join Emily and Carli from Herefordshire’s Early Years Improvement Team, alongside colleagues from the Attendance Team, for an insightful 45-minute conversation on supporting attendance in early years settings. In this episode, we explore best practices for engaging children and families, practical strategies to promote consistent attendance, and how settings can create a positive culture around participation. We also unpack statutory guidance and highlight the latest EYFS requirements, helping you stay informed and confident in your approach. Whether you’re a practitioner, leader, or simply passionate about early years education, this episode offers valuable tips and guidance to help every child thrive

Following the release of the updated Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework on 14 July 2025, which comes into effect on 1 September 2025, Emily and Carli discuss what’s changing and what it means for your setting.Whether you're a childminder, part of a group or school-based setting, an early years educator, or part of a leadership team, this episode is for you.We’ll highlight the key changes and begin to explore the practical implications. So grab a drink, a pen, and some paper — and get ready for some bitesize insights to support you on your journey.Don’t forget to book onto one of our briefings on 24th September for more in-depth information and support.The episode is approximately 37 minutes long.

An essential summer topic - Sun safety for early years providers, in this episode Emily and Carli are joined by Vicki Major, a public health improvement coordinator from Herefordshire Council. They will be taking a deep dive into why sun safety matters for young children, what to look for on sun cream bottles, how much sun cream should be used, and examples of good practice from our early years providers.