Early Years Insights

<p><strong>Watch the video version on YouTube!<em> </em></strong><em>.</em></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/DLUfz56rSzI">https://youtu.be/DLUfz56rSzI</a> <em>.</em></p><p></p><p><strong>Developing 'Key Adults' within Your Staff Team - Early Years Insights</strong></p><p>In this insightful episode, join your host Kathy Leatherbarrow as she continues the conversation with <strong>Laura Salmon</strong> (Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise) and <strong>Natalie Healy</strong> (Head of Operations at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office) to explore the evolution of leadership and staff development within the Early Years sector.</p><p>This discussion moves beyond traditional management models to focus on empowering practitioners, creating a nurturing internal environment, and managing the complexities of running a successful childcare business.</p><p></p><p>Key Discussion Points:</p><ul><li><strong>Evolving Leadership:</strong> Moving from a "dictatorial" style to a modern, nurturing approach focused on guiding staff potential.</li><li><strong>The 'Key Adults' Model:</strong> Treating staff as "key adults" whose careers and next steps must be nurtured individually, mirroring child support.</li><li><strong>Individualised Management:</strong> Managers must constantly check-in and adapt their style to manage staff the way <em>they</em> prefer, not the way the manager prefers.</li><li><strong>Fairness and Flexibility:</strong> Navigating the complex balance of offering flexible arrangements to individuals while maintaining equality and avoiding internal workplace issues.</li><li><strong>Empowering Managers:</strong> Launching a Training Academy provides CPD and confidence for often younger managers to deliver training and develop their leadership skills.</li></ul><p></p><p>Guests:</p><ul><li><strong>Natalie Healey</strong> - Head of Operations at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office</li><li><strong>Laura Salmon</strong> - Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office</li></ul><p></p><p>Host:</p><ul><li><strong>Kathy Leatherbarrow</strong> - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions</li></ul><p></p><p><strong>Connect with us</strong> on social media or send us an email to share your experiences and insights: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.eden-ts.com"><strong>www.eden-ts.com</strong></a></p><p>#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #EarlyYearsLeadership #KeyAdults #StaffDevelopment #NurseryManagement #ChildcareBusiness #FranchiseSupport #TeamNurturing #CPDforManagers #WorkplaceFlexibility #EarlyYearsCommunity</p><p>Thank you for listening to "Early Years Insights." Stay tuned for more essential discussions in early childhood development.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video version on YouTube!<em> </em></strong><em>.</em></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/Fww0_Xg7lQw?si=PyctgS77dMi2hGXS">https://youtu.be/Fww0_Xg7lQw</a> <em>.</em></p><p></p><p><strong>Oliver's Legacy, Part 2: Closing the EYFS Loopholes - Early Years Insights</strong></p><p>Join Kathy Leatherbarrow for the continuation of a vital story with <strong>Lewis Steeper</strong> (The Oliver Steeper Foundation) and <strong>Laura Salmon</strong> (Banana Moon Franchise).</p><p>Lewis shares the successful legislative changes driven by the Foundation, focusing on mandatory pediatric first aid and improved food safety within the <strong>EYFS</strong> (Early Years Foundation Stage). Laura discusses how Banana Moon implements these safety measures and their partnership in distributing LifeVac devices. Lewis also reveals the profound personal experience of using a LifeVac to save his youngest son, Jake.</p><p></p><p>Key Discussion Points:</p><ul><li><strong>EYFS Reform Victory:</strong> The achievement of forcing the hand of the DfE to close safety loopholes in the EYFS.</li><li><strong>Mandatory First Aid:</strong> The campaign to ensure all relevant staff hold up-to-date paediatric first aid certificates.</li><li><strong>Safer Eating Campaign:</strong> The shift to focusing on "Stage, not Age" for weaning, introducing essential weaning checklists.</li><li><strong>LifeVac Distribution:</strong> Banana Moon's "Big Moments, Bright Futures" campaign to supply all settings with LifeVac and portable travel kits .</li><li><strong>Personal Use:</strong> Lewis's powerful story of using a LifeVac on his son, Jake, highlighting the device's real-world necessity.</li><li><strong>Organ Donation:</strong> Lewis receives an update on Oliver's organ donation, finding peace in his legacy of saving lives.</li></ul><p></p><p>Guests:</p><ul><li><strong>Lewis Steeper</strong> – Founder of The Oliver Steeper Foundation</li><li><strong>Laura Salmon</strong> – Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office</li></ul><p></p><p>Host:</p><ul><li><strong>Kathy Leatherbarrow</strong> – Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions</li></ul><p></p><p>How to Connect:</p><p>Find out more about the Foundation's mission and how to apply for a LifeVac: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.tosf.org.uk"><strong>www.tosf.org.uk</strong></a><strong> </strong>Connect with us on social media or send us an email: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.eden-ts.com"><strong>www.eden-ts.com</strong></a><strong> </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:[email protected]"><strong>[email protected]</strong></a></p><p>#EarlyYearsInsights #OliverSteeperFoundation #EYFSSafety #LifeVac #ChildcareReform #PaediatricFirstAid #BananaMoon</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video version on YouTube!<em> </em></strong><em>.</em></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/h5FzZWbv6kA">https://youtu.be/h5FzZWbv6kA</a> <em>.</em></p><p></p><p><strong>A Legacy of Safety: The Oliver Steeper Foundation - Early Years Insights</strong></p><p>Join Kathy Leatherbarrow as she speaks with Lewis Steeper, founder of <strong>The Oliver Steeper Foundation</strong>, and Laura Salmon, Head of Early Years at <strong>Banana Moon Franchise</strong>, to share a deeply personal story of resilience, and how one family turned tragedy into a national safety mission. </p><p>Lewis recounts the heartbreaking story of losing his son, Oliver, due to a choking incident at nine months old, and the subsequent founding of the Foundation. This episode highlights their incredible mission to provide life-saving anti-choking devices<strong> (LifeVac)</strong> to nurseries and the wider community, ensuring Oliver's legacy is one that saves children's lives.</p><p></p><p>Key Discussion Points:</p><ul><li><strong>Oliver's Story:</strong> The devastating personal account of the choking incident and the difficult, complex journey that followed.</li><li><strong>A Safety Mission:</strong> The Foundation's formation and its goal of placing life-saving equipment in every UK nursery.</li><li><strong>The LifeVac Device:</strong> Understanding the anti-choking device as a crucial last resort when standard first aid has failed.</li><li><strong>Sector Collaboration:</strong> Highlighting the importance of partnerships, such as with Banana Moon and Eden, to boost child safety awareness.</li><li><strong>Grief to Action:</strong> The emotional challenge of converting personal tragedy into a focused public safety mission.</li><li><strong>Parental Support:</strong> Discussing the lack of formal support for self-employed parents and the need for better systems after child loss.</li></ul><p>Guests</p><ul><li><strong>Lewis Steeper</strong> – Founder of The Oliver Steeper Foundation</li><li><strong>Laura Salmon</strong> – Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office</li></ul><p></p><p>Host</p><ul><li><strong>Kathy Leatherbarrow</strong> – Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions</li></ul><p></p><p>How to Connect:</p><p>To learn more about the Foundation or how your setting can receive a LifeVac device, please visit the Oliver Steeper Foundation website. Connect with us on social media or send us an email: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.eden-ts.com"><strong>www.eden-ts.com</strong></a> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:[email protected]"><strong><em>[email protected]</em></strong></a></p><p>#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #OliverSteeperFoundation #ChildSafety #LifeVac #ChokingPrevention #NurserySafety #ParentalAdvocacy #EarlyYearsWellbeing</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video version on YouTube!<em> </em></strong><em>.</em></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/NuSmiHX27eU">https://youtu.be/NuSmiHX27eU</a> <em>.</em></p><p></p><p><strong>Apprenticeship to Manager: Building Early Years Leaders</strong> .</p><p>Join Kathy Leatherbarrow as she continues her discussion with <strong>Natalie Healey</strong>, Head of Operations, and <strong>Laura Salmon</strong>, Head of Early Years, from Banana Moon Franchise Support Office. This episode dives into the crucial role of early years apprenticeships in addressing the sector's recruitment crisis and building a clear, supportive career path from apprentice to nursery manager and beyond.</p><p></p><p>Key Discussion Points:</p><ul><li>The increasing importance of quality Early Years apprenticeships.</li><li>The philosophy of <strong>'grow your own talent'</strong> in solving the sector's recruitment crisis.</li><li>Building a clear career pathway from <strong>apprentice to future leader</strong> and manager.</li><li>Developing <strong>structured induction programmes</strong> that align curriculum and course content.</li><li>The value of support networks, such as <strong>mentor groups</strong> and peer-to-peer sharing.</li><li>Demonstrating the role is a fulfilling <strong>career path</strong> with potential for progression to business ownership.</li><li>The essential link between <strong>Continuous Professional Development (CPD)</strong> and effective leadership.</li></ul><p>Guests:</p><ul><li><strong>Natalie Healey</strong> - Head of Operations at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office</li><li><strong>Laura Salmon</strong> - Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office</li></ul><p></p><p>Host:</p><ul><li><strong>Kathy Leatherbarrow</strong> - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions</li></ul><p></p><p><strong>How to Connect:</strong> We'd love to hear your experiences and insights on building career pathways in Early Years. Connect with us on social media or send us an email to share your thoughts and join the conversation: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.eden-ts.com"><strong>www.eden-ts.com</strong></a></p><p>#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #Apprenticeships #EarlyYearsCareers #GrowYourOwnTalent #CPD #EarlyYearsLeaders #RecruitmentCrisis #WorkforceDevelopment</p><p>Thank you for listening to "Early Years Insights." Stay tuned for more essential discussions in early childhood development.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video version on YouTube!<em> </em></strong><em>.</em></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtu.be/b0e4dDuvIJk">https://youtu.be/b0e4dDuvIJk</a> <em>.</em></p><p></p><p><strong>EYFS Updates: Nurturing Our Whole Community</strong> .</p><p>In this special episode, we delve into the core of the <strong>new EYFS statutory framework</strong>, taking effect on <strong>1st September 2025</strong>. This framework encourages a holistic approach to nurturing everyone within the Early Years setting, from children and staff to families. We cover essential and often-overlooked topics that contribute to a healthy, supportive community.</p><p></p><p>Key Discussion Points:</p><ul><li><strong>Professional Curiosity:</strong> The importance of approaching 'whistle-blowing' and professional curiosity in a positive way.</li><li><strong>CCTV and Safety:</strong> We examine the role of CCTV in accident review and maintaining a secure environment.</li><li><strong>Sleep and Wellbeing:</strong> The conversation covers crucial sleep routines for both children and parents.</li><li><strong>Staff Wellbeing:</strong> Good sleep routines and a focus on overall wellbeing are vital for Early Years professionals.</li><li><strong>Generational Diversity:</strong> Embracing different generational work styles creates a more accommodating workplace.</li></ul><p></p><p>Guests:</p><ul><li><strong>Natalie Healey</strong> - Head of Operations at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office</li><li><strong>Laura Salmon</strong> - Head of Early Years at Banana Moon Franchise Support Office</li></ul><p></p><p>Host:</p><ul><li><strong>Kathy Leatherbarrow</strong> - Early Years Consultant at Eden Training Solutions</li></ul><p></p><p><strong>How to Connect: </strong>We'd love to hear your thoughts on the new EYFS updates and what 'nurturing your community' means to you. Connect with us on social media or send us an email to share your experiences and insights: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.eden-ts.com"><strong>www.eden-ts.com</strong></a></p><p>#EarlyYearsInsights #EdenTrainingSolutions #EYFS2025 #EYFSupdates #StaffWellbeing #SleepRoutines #ProfessionalCuriosity #EarlyYearsCommunity #GenZ #EarlyYearsEducation</p><p>Thank you for listening to "Early Years Insights." Stay tuned for more essential discussions in early childhood development.</p>