Ofsted’s new inspection report cards mark a significant shift in how early years settings are evaluated, moving away from a single overall grade to a more detailed, area-by-area picture of practice. With a new five-point grading scale and greater emphasis on reflective leadership conversations, providers are now expected to articulate not just what they do, but why it matters and the impact it has for children. This article explores what’s changed, what it means in practice, and how settings can prepare with clarity and confidence.

Accompanying Episode 18 of the Atelier podcast.

As Series One of Atelier Talks comes to a close, we’ve taken time to pause and reflect in our latest blog - holding the moments, relationships and shared values that have shaped a full and meaningful year in early years. This particle is about gratitude, people, and the quiet, everyday work that often goes unseen but truly matters. It’s an invitation to slow down, reflect, and acknowledge what has been built together.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.