The conference will take place over 4 days. Take a look at the programme below and register here.
Day 1: 9th November 2020 4pm-6pm
Time |
Session |
4.00pm |
Development Matters: time to reflect
An overview of current early years practice and reflections on how the new guidance can support practitioners during the Covid-19 pandemic:
- why it is more important than ever to focus on improving children’s health
- supporting children’s early communication and how personal, social and emotional development can help to build resilience
- working collaboratively with parents and supporting children’s learning at home
- starting points for building a broad and balanced curriculum for the children in your setting
Dr Julian Grenier, head teacher, Sheringham Nursery School and Children’s Centre, East London, and lead on the revised Development Matters guidance
|
4.35pm |
Virtual exhibition and networking break
|
4.55pm |
Adult-initiated learning within an early years curriculum
Explore the role of adult-initiated activity in creating a sequenced coherent curriculum for all children, and particularly for those in most need of support
Penny Tassoni, early years consultant, author and trainer
|
5.30pm |
Delivering high-quality learning for babies and toddlers
The role of observation, assessment and reflection in supporting progression in the learning and development of under-twos.
Penny Tassoni, early years consultant, author and trainer
|
6.00pm |
Close of Day 1
|
Day 2: 10th November 2020 4pm-6pm
Time |
Sessions |
4.00pm |
In perspective: observation, assessment and planning
Hear how to develop a planning cycle that will free you from the burden of evidence gathering and enable you to spend more time in meaningful observation, scaffolding and assessment of children’s learning.
Stella Louis, early years consultant, trainer and author
|
4.35pm |
Virtual exhibition and networking break
|
4.55pm |
In partnership: children and their families
Tried-and-tested ways to develop strong and supportive relationships with children’s families, encourage real dialogue and promote home learning.
Judith Twani, early years consultant
|
5.30pm |
Explorations in STEM: broadening and deepening learning
A two-part presentation looking at Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in the early years and their potential contribution in creating a broad and challenging curriculum for young children.
Jan Dubiel, early years consultant; and Becky Dolamore, head teacher, Rachel Keeling Nursery School, East London
|
6.00pm |
Close of Day 2
|
Day 3: 11th November 2020 4pm-6pm
Time |
Sessions |
4.00pm |
Inclusion and SEND
Revisit the principles of inclusion within the EYFS and hear pointers on how to support the learning and development of children with emerging special needs, in particular those with Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
Dr Prithvi Perepa, lecturer, School of Education, University of Birmingham
|
4.35pm |
Virtual exhibition and networking break
|
4.55pm |
Cognitive load theory: the case for sequenced learning
Explore the key principles of cognitive load theory and reflect on their relationship to early years practice, with a look at:
- the place of working and long-term memory in the learning process
- Explore the rationale for sequenced learning in elements of the curriculum
Phil Armstrong, head of regional development, South and International, Early Excellence
|
5.30pm |
More than just numbers?
An insight into the breadth of learning that should occur within early maths and how mathematical thinking and key concepts can be developed through first-hand playful experiences, indoors and out.
Dr Helen J Williams, Early years mathematics consultant, Early Childhood Mathematics Group
|
6.00pm |
Close of Day 3
|
Day 4: 12th November 2020 4pm-6pm
Time |
Sessions |
4.00pm |
Towards self-regulation: the importance of co-regulation and relationship in helping children manage behaviour
This session will explore:
- self-regulation as a developmental process: what it is and what it isn't
- why co-regulation and relationship are crucial to its development
- how an understanding of the process helps us tune in and respond to behaviour, appreciating the extra challenges faced by some children
- key points for practice
Anne O'Connor, early years consultant, trainer and author specialising in the Prime areas of emotional and physical development and co-founder of Primed for Life Training Associates
|
4.35pm |
Virtual exhibition and networking break
|
4.55pm |
Loose parts play
How to inject creativity and critical thinking into the early years curriculum by developing and supporting children’s play with open-ended resources.
Ben Kingston-Hughes, early years trainer and managing director of Inspired Children
|
5.30pm |
Community and curriculum: making the connections
Discover how projects encouraging children to engage with their local communities provide the basis for a meaningful early years curriculum and foster strong partnerships with children’s families.
Dr Eunice Lumsden, head of early years, University of Northampton
|
6.00pm |
Close of Day 4
|
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