Lead and Learn - HQ Early Years

In this episode of Lead and Learn, Jo Caswell joins us to share her journey into early years. From the challenges to the triumphs, Jo reflects on her experiences and the lessons she’s gathered along the way. Packed with insight and inspiration, this conversation is a celebration of the joys of working with young children.

Teresa Brooke joins the Lead and Learn Podcast to share her journey into leadership and the experiences that have shaped her along the way. She reflects on the joy of working in the early years, sharing why this sector is such a rewarding and inspiring place to build a career. Teresa offers insights, stories, and lessons from her path in leadership, celebrating the impact of nurturing, supporting,...

In this episode of Lead and Learn, we’re joined by Michelle Windridge to hear about her journey into early years and the insights she’s gained along the way. We explore team dynamics, respect in the workplace, and ways to enhance experiences for children, including practical ideas around school readiness and smooth transitions, offering inspiration for leaders and practitioners alike.

In this episode of Lead and Learn , we’re joined by Louise Mercieca, early years nutritional consultant, to dive into the power of language around food and why shifting our mindset in early years nutrition can set children up for a lifetime of healthy habits. We chat about practical tips for talking to kids about food in a positive way, common pitfalls to avoid, and how small changes in approach c...

In this episode, I am joined by Michelle Hague to share her inspiring leadership journey. She reflects on the importance of experiences in shaping who she is today, encouraging listeners to soak up every opportunity along the way. From her early years of building connections to embracing fun in her career, Michelle shares candid insights on how these moments have guided her growth as a leader. Her...

In this inspiring episode I'm joined by Jordan Tully, Managing Director of Toots Day Nurseries. Jordan shares his journey through early years leadership and opens up about the power of authenticity in discovering your unique leadership style. From the challenges to the triumphs, this conversation dives deep into what it truly means to lead with purpose and heart in the early years sector.

In this uplifting episode of Lead and Learn, we talk with Olivia Mayall, Operations Manager at Realise. Olivia takes us through her journey into the early years and how stepping into leadership opened new doors, eventually leading her into apprentice training and her role leading the RealiseEY project. Her passion for supporting others shines through as she shares the experiences that shaped her p...

In this engaging episode of Lead and Learn, we chat with Rob Danks, a dedicated preschool and business manager from Kent. Rob shares his journey into early years leadership and offers thoughtful reflections on the vital role men play in the sector. With a deep passion for imaginative play and high-quality care, Rob brings a refreshing perspective on nurturing children's development and leading wit...

In this inspiring episode of Lead and Learn, we sit down with Kelly Hill as she shares her remarkable journey into the early years sector. From her first steps in childcare to becoming a successful nursery owner and founder of a thriving training business, Kelly opens up about the passion and purpose that drive her. With powerful insights into self-reflection, resilience, and determination, this c...

In this thoughtful episode, we’re joined by Sarah Green as she reflects on her lifelong journey of learning and leadership. From her early experiences to her role today at the National College, Sarah shares how continuous growth, staying grounded, and staying true to her values have shaped her approach to leadership. Tune in for an authentic conversation filled with insights on embracing learning...

In this reflective episode, I’m joined by Chris Langdon-Casey as he shares stories from his early years and the moments that shaped him along the way. We explore the importance of finding your people , the value of celebrating the little things , and how reflective practice can ground you in where you’ve been, often more meaningfully than where you're going. It’s a conversation filled with war...

I sit down with Karen Derbyshire, Director of Early Years at Realise, to talk passion, purpose, and the power of community. Karen shares the story behind Realise EY—a brand new App created especially for small and independent nursery managers. From free resources and expert advice to CPD and peer support, Realise EY is all about helping leaders thrive, not just survive. It’s a game changer for the...

In this episode, I’m joined by the wonderful Glenn as we dive into his inspiring journey into leadership in the early years world. From one podcast host to another, we chat about the power of awe and wonder, the magic of the "Jar of Joy," and the pure delight of working with children. Glenn shares what’s shaped his path, the lessons he’s learned, and why leading with joy makes all the difference....

Join me and Jess as we explore her inspiring journey in early years education! From studying at university to owning her own nursery, Jess shares the challenges and triumphs of leadership in the sector. We dive into the importance of professional love—what it truly means and why it’s essential for children’s development. Tune in for an insightful conversation on passion, dedication, and creating n...

In this episode, we sit down with Stuart to explore his leadership journey in the early years sector. From his first experiences as a student to the pivotal moments of being invited into play with children, we reflect on the lessons learned along the way. Stuart shares valuable insights, personal reflections, and practical advice for aspiring leaders in early years education. Whether you're just s...

Join me in this inspiring episode as I dive into the world of strengths-based leadership with Evie, a fellow Gallup Strengths Coach and Positive Intelligence Coach. Evie opens up about her personal story, sharing powerful insights on why cultivating a sense of belonging is so deeply important to her. Her wise words will not only inspire you but also leave you with plenty to reflect on as you navig...

Join me as I sit down with Ollie, our mental health and wellbeing expert from HQ Early Years, to talk about New Year’s resolutions— but with a twist! We dive into the pressures of goal-setting, challenge the traditional meaning of resolutions, and even embark on a mission to redefine the concept altogether. Expect practical strategies to set yourself up for success, tips to build a supportive netw...

We’re excited to welcome back Richard, early years expert and STEAM specialist, for an essential conversation on online safety in early childhood education! As we approach Online Safety Day in February 2025, Richard dives into strategies to help young children and their families stay safe in today’s digital world. Together, we’ll explore the role of early years educators in promoting safe online h...

Listen in to this episode for an inspiring chat with Sugita, CEO of a thriving nursery, as we explore the power of visionary leadership, resilience, and creating a supportive team culture. We have honest discussions around accountability in leadership roles. From weathering storms to nurturing growth, Sugita shares wisdom and laughs to help you lead and thrive.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with Lindsay, a passionate early years expert hailing from the heart of Glasgow! Join us as Lindsay shares her incredible leadership journey and sheds light on the unique and vibrant Scottish approach to early childhood education. From heartfelt stories to exciting resources, Lindsay brings a fresh perspective filled with warmth and wisdom. Whether you're in...

In this episode, Jamie reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, offering valuable insights into building a successful business and investing in teams. He shares his passion for sharing knowledge and the importance of learning from experience, including advice he’d give to his younger self. Tune in for thoughtful reflections and practical tips for anyone on their own entrepreneurial path.

Join us as we chat with Vanessa, an early years consultant, author, and former inspector, to explore her inspiring journey through early years leadership. Vanessa shares valuable insights from her career, including her experiences as an inspector, and the lessons learned that shaped her path. We explore her book, Are You Ready for Your Inspection?. This episode is packed with leadership wisdom, pr...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Richard, a dedicated early years leader and STEAM education specialist, as we dive into his unique journey in early childhood education and his passion for integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics into early years learning. Richard shares his path to leadership in the early years sector and offers practical tips to make STEAM ac...

In this podcast, Loren, an experience Senior Nursery Manager, discusses the importance of building strong partnerships with parents in early years settings. She shares her leadership journey and how she fosters a family-centered community, emphasising the value of collaboration and open communication. Loren highlights how these partnerships enhance children's learning experiences and create a supp...

In this episode, we talk with Claudio, who reflects on his journey into early years. Claudio shares how his experiences influenced and inspired his passion for leading diverse, inclusive teams and advocating for equity in the workplace. Join us for a thoughtful discussion on the impact of early development on leadership, representation, and building inclusive environments. https://www.linkedin.com...