In this lively podcast episode, Faye and Sian, co-owners of Polka Dot Farm Nursery in Essex, share their journey of creating a unique vibrant nursery with authenticity and innovation. They emphasise the importance of being true to oneself in business, highlighting that success doesn't necessarily depend on having a massive following but on connecting deeply with your audience. They discuss the power of creating a buzz around their nursery by being authentically themselves and fostering a...

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of the 5 Love Languages in expressing gratitude towards the children and our staff. The concept of Love Languages highlights the various ways individuals give and receive love, and can be a fantastic tool for you to use in your setting. Understanding a child's primary Love Language enables practitioners to effectively communicate appreciation and support, fostering healthy emotional development. On top of this, expressing gratitude in a...

Today, I'm joined by Linsie Dare, Operations Manager, and Libby Houston, Area Manager, from Munchkins Nursery. Together, we'll explore their recent inspection experience, gaining insights into the day's events and valuable tips for upcoming inspections. So join us as we uncover the strategies that have made Munchkins Nursery successful in navigating their Ofsted inspection. Within this episode, you will learn about: - The importance of having a bespoke curriculum for your setting. - Their...

We all know that receiving an Inadequate grade can feel like the end of the world, we get that. But it is important to give yourself 24 hours to process your emotions, snot, cry and moan. Then come back into the setting the next day, with a newfound determination of what you are going to do better.  This episode will give you all of the tips and tricks that you need so that you are prepared to reflect on your setting, make some changes and show Ofsted that you have what it takes!  Within...

In today's podcast episode, I'm joined by two special guests, Amanda and Shaunie, both integral members of the St Mary's Under Fives team. Our focus in this episode centres around Amanda and Shaunie and their experiences regarding the Quality Improvement Audit (QIA) with JigsawEYC. Additionally, we will touch upon the utilisation of talking tins within the setting, exploring how they play a crucial role in supporting children with English as an Additional Language (EAL).  Within this...

This episode is all about settings who get a Requires Improvement grade, as we offer our golden nuggets of information on how you can bounce back, climb the ranks and achieve either a Good or Outstanding. From your curriculum to accident and incident forms, this episode will provide you with all the information you need to start adding IMPACT and show your inspector how great your setting is. Within this episode, you will learn about: - The importance of giving yourself 24 hours - How to...

Have you ever wondered how to ensure your nursery aces the next Ofsted inspection with flying colors? With increasing scrutiny on early years education, it's essential for nursery managers to stay ahead of the curve. This episode delves into practical strategies and real-life experiences with Abbie, from Scallywags Nursery Chelmsford, which will help you navigate the complexities of Ofsted inspections, achieve amazing results, and continue thriving post-inspection. Within this episode,...

Today, Vanessa will delve into the world of inspections and trying to sustain an Outstanding Grade in Early Years. This task is far from simple, with over a hundred things to consider when coming up to inspection day. We are eager to impart our insights and strategies to help you maintain composure and readiness for your inspection. With an emphasis on innovative thinking to ensure that your setting stands out amongst the crowd, and will wow your inspector when they come to visit. ...

Tune in to this episode as we delve into the heart of our Brand-New Early Years Impact Training Hub Membership. We go into depth about the issues with some online training, where all staff do is click and forget, and talk about our new membership and how we have managed to create affordable training that is engaging, inspiring and impactful! Within this episode, you will learn about: - The Perils of 'Click and Forget' Training - The Importance of Training that Inspires and Adds Impact -...

Today I am joined by the lovely Nadia Salim as she talks about her experience as an Operations Director for Fisherfield Childcare and what led to her contacting JigsawEYC for a Quality Improvement Audit (QIA).  So join us as we talk about what a QIA entails and the impact that it can have on your setting! Within this episode, you will learn about:   - Another setting's experience with inspections - The changes that a QIA can help you to make - How a QIA can prepare and inspire your...

For this week I am joined by the wonderful Cathy Agozzino as she picks my brain around the topic of Early Years Apprentices, how we can support them and what apprentices need to be aware of before an inspection. So join us as we discuss some golden nuggets of information that can help you ensure that apprentices are supported and prepared! Within this episode, you will learn about:   - The types of questions an inspector may ask an apprentice. - How you can help to prepare an apprentice...

Today I am joined by the wonderful Rochelle Smith from the University of Bradford, as we discuss their Early Years journey, pre-inspection anxiety and what they did to ensure that everyone was prepared for their inspection So join us as we discuss their journey and how JigsawEYC has helped them to add impact! Within this episode, you will learn about:   - The importance of taking feedback on board. - How to improve staff confidence. - What a Quality Improvement Audit could do for you ...

Today we have the whole JigsawEYC team together for a welcome-back podcast, where we discuss what everyone has been working towards over 2023 and what they are excited to work on going into 2024, we have lots lined up and want to make 2024 the year of JigsawEYC! So join us today as we discuss...   - The launch of the 4th Edition of the 'Are You Ready For Your Inspection" book! - Our morning 'JigsawEYC Huddle' which motivates us for the day. - All the things we have learned over 2023. ...

This is the last podcast of 2023, where has the time gone? Today I am joined by our amazing Operations Manager, Lucy Brewer, as we take a step back and reflect on the year that has passed. It's always important to take the time to reflect and see how things can be done differently. So join us on our reflective journey of 2023. Within this episode, we will discuss:   - How JigsawEYC Has Grown Over the Last Year - Our Method of Organising Job Roles - The Pros and Cons of 2023 For...

With the proposed changes to the statutory framework coming into effect next month, we wanted to take the time to discuss the changes to the Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification and the effects this could have on your business. Within this podcast, you will learn about: - The changes to Level 3 Qualifications being proposed - The implications that this could have on your business - What you need to be aware of For more information about Jigsaw Early Years Academy, ...

How does your early years curriculum measure up to the latest inspection standards? If you're grappling with creating an effective curriculum that meets inspection requirements while fostering child development, this episode is packed with practical insights. Understanding how to structure your curriculum can directly impact your inspection results and the quality of education in your setting. Join Lorna Wigley and me as we dive into this hot topic in Early Years. Within this episode, you...

Today I am joined by the lovely Lorna Wigley from Childbase, this time we are discussing the meaning of the word 'Quality' and how it can impact our roles within Early Years. Within this episode, you will learn about: - What the word 'Quality' can mean for a setting. - The importance of the whole team having a voice. - Why we need to work together to add impact. QIA's, https://www.jigsawearlyyearsconsultancy.com/services/quality-improvement-audits/  For resources to support you on...

Have you ever wondered how to effectively engage children who speak English as an additional language in early years settings? In today's diverse classrooms, many educators face the challenge of supporting children with English as an additional language. Understanding how to create an inclusive environment where every child feels a sense of belonging and can thrive is crucial for children's development and educators' success. Within this episode, you will... Learn practical strategies for...

Today, I am joined by Lorna Wigley from Childbase as we discuss the importance of Safeguarding and look at apprenticeships. Remember that we need to follow safeguarding legislation for all children, and those under 19 are still considered children in the eyes of the law! Within this episode, you will learn: - How to ensure everyone within the setting is safe - What to be aware of and keep an eye out for. - When you need to take things further and file a report. For resources to...

Welcome to another episode of "Are You Ready For Your Inspection?" where we unravel the latest advancements in early childhood education. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Department for Education's official response to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework consultation and the imminent changes that are set to take place in January. Within this episode, you will learn about: - The upcoming changes in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework - How the revised...

Early childhood education isn't just about teachers and classrooms; it's about building a collaborative bridge between educators and parents. Having strong relationships with parents can greatly benefit the learning and development of the children, but it is also vital for the success of Early Years settings., Within this episode, you will learn: - How to establish open communication channels with parents - How to create a welcoming and inclusive environment - How to create opportunities...

For this episode I will be going through some of the questions that I often get asked about Inspections and trying to quell any concerns that you may have. Information regarding inspections changes all the time, so I am hoping that today's podcast will shed some light on the topic. Within this episode, you will learn: - What Inspectors are looking for - How to handle negative feedback - How often you will be inspected The Early Years Inspection Hub, ...

Safeguarding is one of the most important aspects of our role in Early Years this is more than just complying with current legislation and guidelines It also includes making sure that the children are in an environment where they feel safe and secure. It is all about protection as a whole with the children at the forefront of this. Within this episode, you will learn about: - The definition of Safeguarding - The importance of a child-centred approach - Why we need to have robust policies...

This week I wanted to talk about something that is very important and that is the main purpose of training in our sector and how it will impact the lives of the children within our care. It is vital that we are always trying to upskill our knowledge so that we can help nurture young minds and give them the best start that we can! Within this episode, you will learn about: - The main purpose of training in Early Years - The benefits of having highly skilled and well-trained staff - The...

Today I am joined by the lovely Gemma Lamport as we discuss what it is like to manage and support multiple settings and I share some golden nuggets of information as to how I survived being a group manager for 6 different nurseries. Within this episode, you will learn about: - The importance of finding the right staff for your setting - Why we need to take time to develop our time management skills - How to find ways to take time out of your business to work on your business Our...