News, Thoughts & Inspiration
With Love from Italy: Reflections from Reggio Emilia
Accompanying Episode 17 of the Atelier Podcast
Our visit to Reggio Emilia invited us into a way of seeing children, learning, and community that is deeply intentional and profoundly human. Rather than offering a set of practices to replicate, the experience immersed us in environments where trust in children as competent learners is communicated through every material, space, and interaction.
Fees, Funding, and Fragility - The Tightrope of Early Years Sustainability
Accompanying Episode 16 of the Atelier Podcast
Childcare may be sold to families as ‘free’ but for nurseries, the reality is far more complex. This blog explores the growing gap between funding and reality, the impact on relationships with families, and why greater transparency is urgently needed to protect the future of early years education.
A New Chapter for Inspection- Understanding the DfE’s Early Years Inspection Toolkit
Accompanying Episode 15 of the Atelier Podcast
With the launch of the DfE’s Early Years Inspection Toolkit, settings can expect a more consistent, transparent, and dialogue-driven approach to quality assurance. Clare sits down with Vanessa Dooley - founder of Jigsaw Early Years Consultancy - to unpack what the new framework means for leaders, practitioners, and families.
Leadership in Action – Practical Guidance for Early Years Leaders
Accompanying Episode 14 of the Atelier Podcast
Leadership in early years isn’t just about vision - it’s about what we do every day to support, guide, and inspire our teams. From morning check-ins to navigating tricky conversations, real leadership lives in the everyday moments that build trust and shape practice.
Creating and Enabling Environments – Training with Atelier Consultancy
At Atelier Consultancy, we believe environments are far more than just spaces - they shape how children learn, play, and connect. During a recent Professional Development Day at Burford Garden Company, educators explored how thoughtful design, sensory details, and purposeful organisation can transform the atmosphere of a nursery.
Leadership in the Early Years – Building Strong Foundations
Accompanying Episode 13 of the Atelier Podcast
At Atelier Nursery, leadership goes far beyond titles or job roles - it’s about cultivating a culture where children and adults can truly flourish. In this article, we explore what effective leadership looks like in the Early Years, from balancing management and inspiration to fostering collaboration, reflection, and wellbeing across the team.
Babies at Atelier: Nurturing Our Youngest Learners
Accompanying Episode 12 of the Atelier Podcast
At Atelier Nursery, we see babies as capable, curious learners with their own ideas and rhythms. In our Baby Nest, strong attachments, calm spaces, and close partnerships with parents create the secure foundation little ones need to thrive. With sensitive care and respect for each child’s individuality, we nurture not just early learning, but confident beginnings in our wider nursery community.
Creating Calm, Joyful Beginnings for the New Term
Accompanying Episode 11 of the Atelier Podcast
At Atelier Nursery, we believe September should be calm, not chaotic. While many nurseries dive into new projects, our Simple September approach focuses instead on building strong relationships, consistent routines, and emotional wellbeing. By giving children the time and space to settle, reconnect, and feel secure, we create the best foundations for learning and exploration.
Starting Nursery: Building Secure Beginnings at Atelier
Accompanying Episode 10 of the Atelier Podcast
Starting nursery is a big milestone for children and families, which is why at Atelier we place relationships and belonging at the heart of the process. Through gentle settling sessions, the support of a dedicated key person, and close partnership with parents, we create a calm, thoughtful transition that helps every child feel secure, confident, and ready to explore their new world.

