Head-to-Head Podcast Podcast By Early Excellence cover art

Head-to-Head Podcast

Head-to-Head Podcast

By: Early Excellence
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About this listen

Listen and connect with real Headteachers and School Leaders right here. Join Sarah Carey, School Improvement Lead at Early Excellence, as she explores a range of hot topics in Primary and Early Years Education. Developed by Headteachers, with Headteachers for Headteachers, they are perfect if you’re seeking to discover the realities of school inspection and impactful school improvement strategies. These genuine, honest and engaging conversations will share crucial information, offer support and reassurance. So, whether you’re keen to hear about real Ofsted experiences, or you’re looking for clarity and direction with your strategic improvement priorities, then these ‘Head-to- Head’ podcasts will be an invaluable tool to impact on both your thinking and strategy.Copyright 2025 Early Excellence
Episodes
  • Transforming Reception Baseline Assessment with EExREC
    Jun 10 2025

    How effectively do your Reception Baseline Assessment processes support your children, the team, teaching and learning?

    Phil Armstrong and Sarah Carey are joined by Helen Bingham, Early Years Lead at the Aspire Trust to discuss the impact of the EExREC tool. Together, they explore the challenges of Baseline Assessment practices and explore EExREC – a new, holistic assessment tool designed to support meaningful practice and provision at the start of the Reception year. The conversation highlights the impact of EExREC in providing well-informed data, supporting professional development, enabling evaluations to inform practice and giving insight into each unique child.

    Spark reflection and inspire impactful Reception Baseline Assessment in your school.

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    30 mins
  • Building Brilliant Beginnings: Strategic Leadership in the EYFS
    Jun 9 2025

    Are you responsible for leading impactful improvement in the EYFS?

    In this episode, Kate Eastwood, Director of Early Years at Quest Trust, shares her focus development projects to establish a progressive curriculum, embed effective provision and to expand Nursery provision with the DfE funding. The discussion explores the implementation and impact of a high-quality text curriculum and the importance of creating inspiring learning environments which connect to the curriculum. Hear key leadership messages about the value of CPD, collaboration, ongoing evaluation and strategic planning in achieving educational excellence in the early years.

    Tune in to reflect on leading change through collaboration, strategy, and professional growth.

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    1 hr
  • A Leadership Story: The Journey into Headship
    Apr 8 2025

    Are you an aspiring leader, considering progression into a Headship?

    Join Becky Sawford, Head Teacher at Crosshall Infant School Academy Trust and hear about her journey into Headship. Becky shares her experiences from starting as a new teacher to becoming a senior leader and then taking the step into Headship. The conversation explores the challenges and successes she has faced, from financial management and budgeting to building strong relationships with staff and parents. She offers valuable advice for aspiring Headteachers, reflecting on the rewards and responsibilities of the role.

    Tune in for this insightful discussion on leadership development and embracing the role of becoming a new Headteacher!

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    58 mins
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