The Bristol & Beyond Early Years Stronger Practice Hub continues to support early years educators and childminders to access professional development opportunities and evidence -informed programmes. Opportunities are also open to Reception educators too! We have planned some activity for June - August. You can view at a glance, download and share this 'What's Coming Up' poster.
We also need your help to plan beyond August. Which 'Areas of Learning' would you like to learn more about? Which 'Areas of Practice' would you benefit from more support and development? Please tell us by completing this Needs Assessment form.
This blog explores the importance of education for sustainability, practical steps you can take, and how our sector can lead the way to creating a greener, safer future for young children. As the impacts of climate change become increasingly visible, the work of building sustainable futures for the youngest generations has never been more urgent. Early years settings play a pivotal role in fostering environmental responsibility and sustainable behaviours in children. Childminders are particularly well placed to do pioneering work in the sector because of the pedagogical freedom with which they practice. With the Department for Education’s (DfE) Sustainability and Climate Change strategy, it is essential to consider how unique settings might rise to the challenge.
Bristol Early Years and The Bristol and Beyond Stronger Practice Hub bring you Early Years Book Club! For all practitioners, teachers, staff and leaders working in Early Years. Build on your knowledge of GREAT children’s books and share in the joy of reading. Explore this webpage to find useful downloads, book recommendations, non-fiction, poetry and more linked to each monthly theme. May is all about the Great Outdoors!
We have some SPH Intro sessions coming up to welcome new early years leaders/ managers and childminders, and would love it if you could share this invitation with another setting, school or childminder in your area. Thank you.
This inspiring evening will feature Laura Henry-Allain, Lucy Lewin, and Cheryl Warren, who will share stories about how their childhood experiences led them to passionate careers in early years and helped them discover unique specialisms along the way. Come along for treasured conversation, fresh inspiration, and a chance to reflect on the powerful role you play in children’s lives. Read more and book here.
Treasure baskets offer childminders a simple yet powerful learning tool for babies and young children—a carefully curated collection of everyday, natural objects with diverse textures, weights and properties. These accessible resources provide endless opportunities for children to explore their environment, significantly enhancing their creativity and critical thinking skills through hands-on discovery. Treasure baskets encourage babies and young children to follow their natural curiosity, developing essential fine motor skills and cognitive connections that will benefit them throughout their early years.
DfE Early Education and Childcare Expansion Provider Roadshow
When: Tuesday 3 June 2025, 10am – 3.30pm
Venue: DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre, Redcliffe Way, BS1 6NJ
DfE invite senior managers to the Early Years and Childcare Provider Roadshow for the southwest region.The event will include an overview and update from the Department for Education, opportunity to share your experiences and views in roundtable discussions, and a best practice session.
