Podcasts

Atelier Talks: The Early Years Collective

The Only Early Years Podcast Led by Providers, for Providers.

Atelier Talks is a dynamic and thought-provoking podcast where the Atelier team shares expertise, insights, and discussions on the most pressing issues in the early years sector. Released every two weeks, each episode brings together practitioners, consultants, and leaders from both Atelier Nursery and Atelier Consultancy, ensuring that the topics are always rooted in real practice and relevant to providers today.

We tackle everything from pedagogy and leadership to working with babies, recruitment challenges, and sector-wide policy changes. This is not just another early years discussion—it is a space for providers to connect, learn, and feel supported by a community that truly understands the realities of the sector.

Listen now and join the conversation.

Amanda Ebdon Amanda Ebdon

Babies at Atelier: Nurturing Our Youngest Learners

At Atelier, we recognise babies as curious, capable learners with unique needs and perspectives. In our Baby Nest, we prioritise secure attachments, calm and nurturing spaces, and care that follows each child’s individual rhythm. By working in close partnership with parents and gradually introducing babies to the wider nursery community, we create the foundations for confident, happy beginnings and a strong sense of belonging.

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Amanda Ebdon Amanda Ebdon

Simple September: Creating Calm, Joyful Beginnings for the New Term

At Atelier Nursery, we believe the new term should begin with calm and connection. Our Simple September approach avoids the whirlwind of immediate new projects, instead prioritising strong relationships, steady routines, and the wellbeing of both children and educators.

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Amanda Ebdon Amanda Ebdon

Starting Nursery: Building Trust and Understanding

When you invest in supporting children and families to start well at your setting, the impact is clear and long lasting.  In this episode we discuss tips on the best ways to ensure that your settling sessions create enduring, positive partnerships with parents by building trust with a confident start at nursery.

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Amanda Ebdon Amanda Ebdon

Projects and Provocations – Deepening Children’s Meaningful Learning

In this episode, we explore the role of project-led learning and intentional daily provocations in shaping rich, meaningful experiences at Atelier Nursery. Learn how children’s interests grow into sustained inquiries, how carefully designed provocations invite exploration, and how this approach aligns with the EYFS while fostering confident, independent thinkers.

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Amanda Ebdon Amanda Ebdon

Take a Step Inside: A Walk Through Atelier Nursery

Step inside Atelier Nursery and discover how thoughtfully designed environments can nurture curiosity, confidence, and connection. In this episode, we explore how every detail - from natural materials to layout - supports child-led learning, independence, and a deep sense of belonging. It’s not just about how the space looks, but how it feels to be there.

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Amanda Ebdon Amanda Ebdon

How to Prepare for an OFSTED Inspection: Insights From Our Outstanding Nursery

In this podcast episode, we explore how to prepare for Ofsted in a calm, confident wayfocusing on knowing your children and curriculum deeply, not rehearsing or over-prepping. We share leadership insights from real inspections and offer practical tips to help teams stay grounded, empowered, and ready to showcase what makes their setting special.

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Julianne Woodruff Julianne Woodruff

The Environment as the Third Teacher

At Atelier, we believe the environment is never passive. It is alive, responsive, and intentional-a third teacher that communicates our values long before we say a word. In this Podcast, we discuss how we have taken inspiration from the Reggio Emilia approach, to design spaces that invite children to explore, imagine, and connect.

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Julianne Woodruff Julianne Woodruff

Exploring the Key Family Approach

In this episode, we explore the heart of Atelier’s approach - Key Families. Going beyond the traditional key person model, we share how our mixed-age groups create deep, lasting relationships between children and educators. Drawing on the research of Lilian Katz and rooted in professional love, this episode offers a powerful insight into the connections that shape our practice and support every child to thrive.

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Julianne Woodruff Julianne Woodruff

Belonging Together – The Magic of Mixed-Age Key Families in Early Years Practice

At Atelier Nursery, we believe in the power of connection. Within this podcast we explore the magic of mixed-age key families, a unique approach rooted in attachment theory, sibling relationships, and peer learning. Discover how this thoughtful practice nurtures belonging, responsibility, and deep emotional security for every child.

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