A Brain-Based Approach to Supporting Children’s Transitions – Guest Post.

Alistair Bryce-CleggChild Initiated Learning, Transition33 Comments

In a time before Covid 19, I asked Mine Conkbayir to write a guest blog post for me  from the point of view of the psychological impact that effective and not so effective transitions can have. In these now uncertain times when children will be returning to a very different ‘version’ of school life, it is more important than ever that effective transitions are at the forefront of our thinking. Whether children return before the Summer break or in the Autumn term, it is really crucial that (as much as is possible) the provision  they return to is centred on their wellbeing . There will huge uncertainty for children and staff, but it is imperative that we avoid a ‘catch … Read More

Travel to learn – return to inspire! Guest post by Geraldine Leydon

Alistair Bryce-CleggUncategorized2 Comments

Hello, my name is Geraldine. I am a Primary Partnership Tutor working in primary teacher training. For the most part, during my twenty years working as a teacher and senior manager in primary schools in the North West of England, I felt fulfilled and always eager to be in the early year’s classroom surrounded by the children and their families.  I felt privileged to be part a community and was very aware of the impact I could have on these young lives. Over the years, as I grew in confidence and experience however, I found my values and developing beliefs about effective pedagogy did not align comfortably   with some successive national educational initiatives.  I was frustrated as I passionately wanted … Read More

(At Least) 50 Fantastic Ideas To Try At Home…Can You Help?

Alistair Bryce-CleggBoys Learning, Child Initiated Learning, construction, Continuous Provision, Creativity, Environment, Malleable Materials, Mark Making, mathematics, Messy Play, Mud Kitchen, Music, Outdoors, Play, Water Play40 Comments

As more people are self-isolating and schools and childcare settings across the world are closing, we thought we would contribute to easing the burden by providing another place you can direct parent’s /carers to for support. We are part of a wonderful, international community of Early Years practitioners who have a wealth of knowledge and a HUGE bank of ideas and activities. So, let’s gather together and share them! As a starting point I am going to use my blog to share activities that can fairly easily be done at home. I’ll gather a collection of ideas each week and post them on the website – with links from social media. If you would like to contribute please email me … Read More