BestPracticeNetwork

Yesterday, we had the pleasure of presenting at the Nursery World SEND Reforms in the Early Years Conference in London.   Our Head of EYSEN, Anna Watson, and EYSEN Programme Lead, Emma Lee, spoke about the Department for Education-funded Early Years SENCO Programme, exploring the vital role of the SENCO and the difference skilled SEND leadership can make to both practice and outcomes for children.   It was inspiring to be alongside so many passionate Early Years professionals, all committed to creating more inclusive environments where every child can flourish.   As expectations around SEND continue to evolve, investing in specialist SEND expertise has never been more important. The Early Years SENCO Programme helps practitioners develop the knowledge, confidence and leadership skills needed to champion inclusive practice across their setting.   If you're looking to strengthen SEND provision within your organisation, or know a colleague who would make an excellent SENCO, find out more about the programme below: eu1.hubs.ly/H0zHvKX0

2 days left to apply for our Teaching Assistant Apprenticeships! Closing Sunday, November 8th If you're ready to strengthen your classroom practice, develop specialist knowledge and gain a nationally recognised qualification, applications close Sunday 8 November for:   ✓ Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Level 3 ✓ Level 3 SEND Pathway ✓ Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Level 5   Already started your application?   Now is the time to complete any outstanding sections, confirm your school or employer details and ensure you complete the final submission step before the deadline.   Planning to apply but not started yet? Begin your application today to give yourself enough time to complete the required information.   Applications close Sunday, November 8.   Apply or continue your application: eu1.hubs.ly/H0zGJXM0   #TeachingAssistant #TeachingAssistantApprenticeship #SEND #ProfessionalDevelopment #SchoolStaff

❤️ That's a wrap on this year's #BPNPartnerConference! We ended the day with a photo of the brilliant school ties designed by our attendees. A fun activity that perfectly captured the creativity, enthusiasm and sense of community that has been present throughout the day. From thought-provoking discussions and inspiring speakers to valuable conversations between partners, today has been a wonderful opportunity to come together, share ideas and learn from one another. Most importantly, we've explored practical ways to create even better outcomes for the children, young people and communities we serve. A massive thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to making the day such a success. We couldn't do what we do without our partners, and we're incredibly grateful for your continued support, collaboration and commitment. ✨🤝 We can't wait to do it all again next year!

📊 The final session of today's #BPNPartnerConference asked an important question: What can engagement data tell leaders before outcomes do? Jess Easton and Agnes Fitzpatrick from The Engagement Platform explored how schools and trusts can use engagement data to spot patterns, understand culture and identify opportunities for improvement earlier. An insightful session demonstrating how the right data can help leaders move from reacting to challenges to proactively shaping positive outcomes for staff, pupils and organisations. #BPNPartnerConference

Empowering girls in the digital age💜 This afternoon, Viv Trask-Hall led an insightful workshop exploring how schools can better support girls' mental health, wellbeing and self-esteem in an increasingly digital world. Drawing on learning from Thrive and GLF's two-year project, the session highlighted the value of deep listening, student voice and peer-to-peer support in helping young people navigate challenges around body image, personal boundaries and online pressures. A key theme throughout was the importance of closing the gap between adults' perceptions and young people's lived experiences, ensuring that support is informed by what children and young people themselves say they need. #BPNPartnerConference

How do we attract and retain the next generation of teachers? 🧑‍🏫   At this afternoon's workshop, Karen Taylor-Paul from Alban Education explored how evolving workplace expectations, particularly among Gen Z colleagues, are reshaping leadership, training and staff wellbeing in schools.   Key takeaways included understanding and challenging our own generational biases, creating psychologically safe environments where staff can thrive and using coaching to support wellbeing and retention. #BPNPartnerConference

🤔 How can we start a conversation around masculinity and misogyny so we can better support young men and boys in schools? This important question was at the heart of a powerful workshop led by Lewis Wedlock this morning. He focused on masculinity, misogyny and how schools can better support young men and boys. The session explored the relationship between masculinity, misogyny and online influences, highlighting how the content young people consume can shape their attitudes and behaviours beyond the screen. With 7 in 10 boys exposed to misogynistic content online, schools have a vital role to play in creating opportunities for discussion, reflection and understanding. Rather than simply telling young people what not to do, Lewis emphasised the importance of understanding how they engage with information and involving them in the conversations that affect their lives. A standout takeaway was that early intervention isn't about assuming the worst. It's about creating school cultures where every young person has the opportunity to thrive. #BPNPartnerConference

A great apprenticeship experience starts with great support.   This month, we're spotlighting Orinta, one of our dedicated Early Years tutors. Having started her own career as an apprentice before progressing into nursery management, assessment and learner support, she understands the apprenticeship journey first-hand.   Orinta is passionate about helping learners recognise their strengths, build confidence and achieve their professional goals, providing personalised support every step of the way.   For employers, that means their apprentices are guided by professionals with real sector experience. For apprentices, it means having a tutor who genuinely understands the challenges and opportunities of working in Early Years.   We're proud to have a network of experienced, supportive tutors helping learners succeed! 💙

Our Partnerships Conference is underway at Birmingham Council House! 🎉   Today is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our valued partners who play such an important role in what we do. Partner feedback is at the heart of how we develop and improve our programmes, helping us deliver the best possible outcomes for schools, staff and learners.   We've got a range of inspiring talks and discussions planned throughout the day, with Chris Ludlow, Partnerships Director, kicking off the day. #BPNPartnerConference

Every child brings a unique story, language and perspective into the setting, but how can Early Years practitioners create environments where multilingual children truly feel they belong?   In the latest podcast episode, Emma and Emily explore supporting children with English as an Additional Language (EAL), challenging common myths about multilingualism and sharing practical strategies to promote inclusion, belonging and culturally responsive practice.   Listen now to discover how you can recognise and celebrate the strengths every child brings. 🎧   Spotify EYSEN Podcast Link: eu1.hubs.ly/H0zqnn90   Apple EYSEN Podcast Link: eu1.hubs.ly/H0zqnmh0   Amazon EYSEN Podcast Link: music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/……   YouTube EYSEN Podcast Link: eu1.hubs.ly/H0zqnnc0

Being a great teaching assistant isn't just about helping pupils complete today's task. It's about knowing when to provide support, when to adapt your approach and when to step back so pupils can build confidence and independence for themselves. The Teaching Assistant Level 3 Apprenticeship helps you develop the skills, knowledge and confidence behind these everyday decisions, enabling you to make an even greater impact in the classroom. Through the programme, you'll strengthen your ability to: ✅ Support high-quality teaching and learning ✅ Encourage pupil independence and resilience ✅ Adapt support to meet a range of learning needs ✅ Work effectively alongside teachers and colleagues Looking to specialise in supporting pupils with additional needs? Our SEND Pathway provides a deeper focus on inclusive practice, helping you develop the expertise to support a wider range of learners. Whether you're new to the role or looking to build on your experience, the apprenticeship can help you take the next step in your professional development and enhance the support you provide every day. Explore Teaching Assistant Level 3: eu1.hubs.ly/H0zx13v0 #TeachingAssistant #TeachingAssistantApprenticeship #SEND #SchoolSupportStaff #ProfessionalDevelopment

Half term is the perfect time to move your Specialist Teaching Assistant Level 5 application forward. You do not need every school or employer detail ready today to make meaningful progress. Use this time to focus on the sections you can complete independently and move closer to becoming a recognised specialist in your field. ✅ Review the answers you've already entered ✅ Complete any personal and role information you already know ✅ Check that your chosen specialism aligns with your professional development goals ✅ Make a note of any information you need to confirm with your school ✅ Identify any questions you'd like support with before submitting If there are details you need from colleagues, simply return to those questions when your setting reopens rather than guessing. Choose the specialist route that best matches your ambitions: 📚 Curriculum Provision 💙 Social and Emotional Wellbeing ⭐ SEND Applications remain open until Sunday, November 8, so using a little time this half term could help you make progress towards your next career step before the deadline. Click here continue your application today: eu1.hubs.ly/H0zscd00 #TeachingAssistant #SpecialistTeachingAssistant #SEND #Apprenticeships #ProfessionalDevelopment

The November intake has closed, but your opportunity to make a difference hasn't.   Every child deserves someone who recognises their potential, understands their needs and helps them access the support they need to flourish.   As an Early Years SENCO, you could be that person.   Applications are now open for the December intake of our Department for Education-funded EY SENCO Level 3 programme. Join the next cohort and you could graduate by next summer, equipped with the knowledge and confidence to support children with SEND, guide families through uncertainty and champion inclusive practice.   Apply by Sunday, November 29 to secure your place.   Apply now 👉  eu1.hubs.ly/H0zrRch0

Just 3 days left to apply.   Every child deserves someone who recognises their potential, understands their needs and helps them access the support they need to flourish.   As an Early Years SENCO, you could be that person.   Our Department for Education-funded EY SENCO Level 3 programme gives you the knowledge, skills and confidence to identify children's needs early, champion inclusive practice and help ensure every child gets the support they need to flourish.   The deadline to apply for the November intake is this Sunday, October 25. Don't let this fully funded opportunity pass you by.   👉 Apply now: eu1.hubs.ly/H0zjrsL0

Last chance to register!   Our Early Years SENCO webinar takes place tomorrow, and it's your opportunity to discover how a fully funded qualification could help you develop specialist SEND expertise and support children to get the best start in life.   If you're considering applying for the November cohort, this is the perfect opportunity to learn more before the Sunday, October 25 application deadline.   Date: tomorrow, October 21 Time: 4:00pm-5:00pm   Register now: eu1.hubs.ly/H0z1Sw80

9 days to go ⏰ Applications for our November EYITT cohort close on next Sunday, October 25. If becoming an Early Years Teacher is part of your plans, now is the time to take your next step. Our fully funded EYITT programme supports graduates to work towards Early Years Teacher Status, with routes available whether you are already working in Early Years or looking to enter the sector. Apply now and take the opportunity to start this November  Early Years Teacher Training (EYITT): eu1.hubs.ly/H0z8jWR0