Early Years Learning and Development
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Please note all prices include VAT
Birth to Five Training Workshop
Our Journey Birth to Five Years Workshop - Empowering parents to access trusted information to support their child's healthy development.
Course overview
It will support you to:
- Understand the background and purpose of the Our Journey Birth to Five Years tool
- Understand how the tool can support Early Years settings to achieve the Healthy Early Years London award
- Navigate the online content
- Translate the online content to make it easier for parents/carers with English as an additional language to access the information
- Share ideas with other professionals
- Understand how to download/order marketing for your parents linked to the content
This training is suitable for:
- This brief interactive workshop is aimed at all professionals working with families who have children aged 0-5 years old.
- Target audience:
- Early Years
- Primary
C&L - Watch Wait Communicate for Practitioners
“Watch Wait Communicate” is a play-based approach to supporting communication skills every day for children. It’s an essential foundation for any Early Years Practitioner and is relevant to all children whatever their developmental level.
This one-hour training with a Specialist Speech and Language Therapist will establish the principles for your own practice with an active session including videos, reflection and discussion. There will be an option for follow up in your own setting to consolidate skills.
Who should attend?
Practitioners and SENCOs working in the private, voluntary, independent and maintained settings with children aged 0-5.
Early Years Coordinators Forum
Course overview
This termly forum provides the opportunity for Early Years Co-ordinators and members of Senior Leadership Teams in schools to share effective practice, develop leadership skills and keep up-to-date with current Early Years issues. The forum provides an opportunity to build local area relationships and to support sustainable improvements in practice.
This training is suitable for:
- Early Years Co-ordinators
- Members of Senior Leadership Teams in Schools.
- Target audience:
- Early Years
- Primary
Forest School Coordinators' Forum
Course overview
This Forum will take place termly and will be an opportunity for all neighbourhood based Forest School Coordinators to come together to share good practice, celebrate successes, discuss challenges and concerns and new research and developments within the Forest School field. The focus will be on development of Forest School sites and how local neighbouring settings have engaged with the programme. We will also explore the impact on children's wellbeing and attainment, and impact on parent's attitude.
This training is suitable for:
- Forest School Lead Practitioners based in schools and settings.
- Target audience:
- Early Years
- Primary
Getting Ready for School: A Holistic Approach
Course overview
Prepare the learners in your care for a confident and successful start to school with this comprehensive course. Designed for staff who work with pre-school aged children (3-4-year-olds) in mind, this course moves beyond traditional "school readiness" to focus on the holistic development crucial for a smooth transition.
We'll dive deep into the Prime Areas: PSED (including vital self-regulation and executive function skills), Communication and Language, and Physical Development. Participants will also gain practical strategies for fostering Early Literacy and Early Maths skills, all while integrating the Characteristics of Effective Learning into their practice.
Drawing on the insights from the 'Starting Reception' guidance (www.startingreception.co.uk ), this course equips practitioners with the tools to not only prepare children academically, but also to build their independence, resilience, and curiosity. Furthermore, we'll explore effective approaches to working with and supporting parents/carers, ensuring a collaborative and successful journey for every child entering Reception.
The Early Years team has decided to deliver this CPD in two parts, as detailed below. Evidence shows that this delivery style leads to more active learning, provides an opportunity for peer support and improves the chances of transferring the learning back to your setting.
Who should attend?
Practitioners working in the private, voluntary, independent and maintained settings with children aged 0-5.
Hackney Forest School - Games in the Outdoors
Location: Hackney Marshes
Meeting Point: Clapton Park Children's Centre, 161 Daubeney Rd, Hackney, E5 0EP
Join us for a playful day on the land and come away with lots of new games for all ages, group sizes and settings...
George Mayfield is a Forest School Leader and TGC Facilitator. He also draws on his experience as a theatre performer and parkour coach. Richard Skrein is a storyteller and Forest School Association-Endorsed Trainer. George and Rich have worked and played together for years and are excited to bring this new offering to you!
The workshop is open to all adults, and may be of particular interest to outdoor educators, teachers, parents and other group leaders.
We will be exploring:
- Group games
- Circle games
- Pair games
- Word games
- Hiding games
- Invasion games
- and more!
We will be playing these games in the outdoors and although many have a nature connection focus, some can be played in any setting - indoors or outdoors.
Come and play!
- Target audience:
- Early Years
- Primary
£78.00
(incl. VAT)Hackney Forest School Lead Accredited Training Level 2
COURSE STRUCTURE
- First initial training consists of 5 Day immersive week
- Reunite for 4 days for a full packed 2 days of practical skills - woodworking, fire making and cooking. Followed by 2 days of ethos and learning
- Each Level 2 Trainee receives an individual, supportive on-site visit
- Portfolio development: one year from the initial training week to develop their portfolio. Six Forest school sessions are required as evidence
- Trainees will also be required to organise their first aid training during this period, which is not included in the cost of the course
- Hand in portfolio of evidence, one year on from initial training week, or sooner
- Discount off for trainees booking onto cpd training workshops coordinated by HFS
Level 2 Award for Forest School Assistants: This qualification is intended for those who wish to become an assistant Forest School Leader or intend to become a Forest School leader in the future, developing knowledge practical skills suitable for the role.
All of our Forest School training courses are certified by ITC First, who are approved by and meet the requirements of the Forest School Association.
Hackney Forest School Lead Accredited Training Level 3
COURSE STRUCTURE
- First initial training consists of 5 Day immersive week
- Reunite for 4 days for a full packed 2 days of practical skills - woodworking, fire making and cooking. Followed by 2 days of ethos and learning.
- Each Level 3 Trainee receives an individual, supportive on-site visit
- Portfolio development: one year from the initial training week to develop their portfolio. Six Forest school sessions are required as evidence
- Trainees will also be required to organise their first aid training during this period, which is not included in the cost of the course
- Hand in portfolio of evidence, one year on from initial training week, or sooner
- Discount off for trainees booking onto cpd training workshops coordinated by HFS
Level 3 Certificate for Forest School Leaders: This qualification is intended to provide the skills and knowledge required to set up and deliver safe and effective Forest School programmes, for those who wish to become Forest School Leaders. Download the qualification specification here.
All of our Forest School training courses are certified by ITC First, who are approved by and meet the requirements of the Forest School Association.
Ignite Creativity: Sparking Joy in EYFS Art and Design
Course overview
This dynamic and hands-on training has been designed to empower Early Years practitioners with a treasure trove of innovative and engaging expressive art and design ideas. We will learn how settings can design a curriculum which enables children to have regular opportunities to engage with the arts, learn about real-life creatives whilst developing their own imagination and self-expression. Participants will also explore how to plan for the explicit teaching of skills and techniques in a way that celebrates the creative process over the final product!
This course will also equip educators with the confidence and practical skills to establish a vibrant and creative learning environment that nurtures imagination, experimentation, and self-expression in young children.
The Early Years team has decided to deliver this CPD in two parts, as detailed below. Evidence shows that this delivery style leads to more active learning, provides an opportunity for peer support and improves the chances of transferring the learning back to your setting.
Who should attend?
Practitioners working in the private, voluntary, independent and maintained settings with children aged 0-5.
Literacy Spark: Igniting a Love for Early Reading & Writing
Course overview
This course will explore multisensory approaches, early phonics skills and mark-making.
In addition, we will explore how stories can be shared in creative and interactive ways to support children’s language skills and enjoyment of books.
All attendees should bring 3 favourite stories and picture books to the sessions to identify opportunities for developing critical thinking skills.
The Early Years team decided to deliver this CPD in two parts, as detailed below. Evidence shows that this delivery style leads to more active learning, provides an opportunity for peer support and improves the chances of transferring the learning back to your setting.
Who should attend?
Practitioners working in the private, voluntary, independent and maintained settings with children aged 0-5.
Magical Maths for Curious Children
Course overview
Join us to discover how to seamlessly weave mathematical concepts into the activities children already love—from the rhythm of a favourite song and the narrative of a classic storybook, to the familiar comfort of daily routines.
Participants will also explore why your own creativity is the most powerful tool you have and empower you to become a confident, creative practitioner who sees mathematical opportunities everywhere.
The Early Years team has decided to deliver this CPD in two parts, as detailed below. Evidence shows that this delivery style leads to more active learning, provides an opportunity for peer support and improves the chances of transferring the learning back to your setting.
Who should attend?
Practitioners working in the private, voluntary, independent and maintained settings with children aged 0-5.
Marvel in the Magic of Open-Ended Play
Course overview
Explore the power of open-ended play through the magic of block play and loose parts. This practical and reflective course covers the theory, history, and stages of block play, its benefits for brain development and well-being. Course attendees will also discover links to the statutory guidance plus how open-ended play can be used to develop the ‘Characteristics of Effective Learning’ and across all areas of learning (such as the exploration of shapes and space, construction, problem solving, language and communication skills, social interaction as well as fine and large muscle control).
Gain practical strategies to enhance your provision, plan enabling environments, support high-quality adult interactions, and follow children’s interests through creative, purposeful play.
The Early Years team has decided to deliver this CPD in two parts, as detailed below. Evidence shows that this delivery style leads to more active learning, provides an opportunity for peer support and improves the chances of transferring the learning back to your setting.
Who should attend?
Practitioners working in the private, voluntary, independent and maintained settings with children aged 0-5.
Move, Grow, Thrive: Mastering Physical Development
Course overview
Get ready to energise your practice with this dynamic training session focused on both strands of Physical Development - Gross Motor Skills and Fine Motor Skills. This course will give you the confidence to create a vibrant, active, and appropriately challenging environment that helps every child develop coordination and a lifelong love for being active.
Woven through the sessions will be the importance of developing children’s core strength and co-ordination (including practical ideas and strategies) and we will also delve into how physical play enhances concentration and supports early writing.
The Early Years team has decided to deliver this CPD in two parts, as detailed below. Evidence shows that this delivery style leads to more active learning, provides an opportunity for peer support and improves the chances of transferring the learning back to your setting.
Who should attend?
Practitioners working in the private, voluntary, independent and maintained settings with children aged 0-5.
Putting PSED at the Core of Your Practice
Course overview
Personal, Social, and Emotional Development is not just an area of learning; it is the bedrock upon which all other learning and development is built. This essential training session provides practitioners with the insight and practical strategies needed to nurture happy, resilient, and emotionally intelligent children.
We will journey through the crucial PSED strands of Self-Regulation, Managing Self, and Building Relationships, equipping you with the confidence and tools to create a truly supportive environment where every child can flourish.
The Early Years team has decided to deliver this CPD in two parts, as detailed below. Evidence shows that this delivery style leads to more active learning, provides an opportunity for peer support and improves the chances of transferring the learning back to your setting.
Who should attend?
Practitioners working in the private, voluntary, independent and maintained settings with children aged 0-5.
Sustainability Leads Forum
Course overview
As part of the Department for Education’s ‘Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy for Education’, the DfE expects all education settings will have nominated a Sustainability Lead and put in place a Climate Action Plan by 2025. Have you been assigned to oversee the development of sustainability in your setting? Perhaps you are just starting out on your eco-friendly journey, or maybe you are looking to audit and develop what you are doing already. If so, our new termly online forum for Sustainability Leads might be for you!
As a group, attendees will have the opportunity to develop their knowledge and collective understanding of the guidance and issues related to best practice around sustainability in the early years. Join these sessions to connect with peers, contribute ideas, co-create and share practical resources and build confidence in leading meaningful change in your setting.
Who should attend?
Sustainability Leads (working in private, voluntary, independent, maintained settings and childminders with children aged 0-5)
The Great Outdoors: Inspiring Play & Learning Outside
Course overview
This newly-revamped course explores both the special nature of outdoor play and how learning outside supports, not only children’s physical health and well-being, but also their development across all areas of learning. Attendees will delve into the core principles of creating high-quality outdoor experiences for children aged birth to five years old and will consider how to apply these values to their own provision - whatever their setting or space!
During this training, participants will also reflect on the unique potential the outdoor learning environment has to offer. As a group, we will explore common barriers to outdoor learning - such as limited space, challenging weather, and tight budgets - and discuss practical ways to overcome them. With a strong focus on the adult’s role, you’ll learn how to create inclusive and engaging environments that support the needs of all children. Together, we’ll consider what children are naturally motivated to do outdoors and how to plan, organise, and resource your outdoor space to offer rich, varied opportunities that complement and enhance your indoor provision.
The Early Years team has decided to deliver this CPD in two parts, as detailed below. Evidence shows that this delivery style leads to more active learning, provides an opportunity for peer support and improves the chances of transferring the learning back to your setting.
Who should attend?
Practitioners working in the private, voluntary, independent and maintained settings with children aged 0-5.
The World on their Doorstep: Bringing UTW to Life
Course overview
This essential training session empowers Early Years practitioners to foster children's natural curiosity and guide their exploration of the world around them. We will delve into all three strands of Understanding the World - ‘Past and Present’, ‘People, Culture and Communities’, and ‘The Natural World’.
Participants will leave with a robust understanding of the UTW curriculum, a wealth of practical and engaging activity ideas, and the confidence to create an environment that broadens children's knowledge and experience of their physical world and community.
The Early Years team has decided to deliver this CPD in two parts, as detailed below. Evidence shows that this delivery style leads to more active learning, provides an opportunity for peer support and improves the chances of transferring the learning back to your setting.
Who should attend?
Practitioners working in the private, voluntary, independent and maintained settings with children aged 0-5.