In this special end-of-series episode, we pause to reflect on an incredible year of growth at Atelier - from launching our consultancy and podcast to embarking on Reggio study tours, receiving professional awards, celebrating outstanding OFSTED inspections, and embracing the joy of everyday nursery life. Joined by our full leadership team, we revisit the moments that moved, challenged and inspired us.

In this special episode, we share insights from our recent team study trip to Reggio Emilia, Italy - the city at the heart of the philosophy that shapes our practice at Atelier. Clare and Laura sit down with Harriet and Rosie to reflect on visiting the Loris Malaguzzi Centre, observing infant–toddler centres, and connecting with a global community of educators. Packed with fresh ideas on environments, values, creativity and the “Reggio lens” now influencing our own spaces, this episode offers inspiring, real-world reflections for anyone curious about Reggio-inspired early years practice.

In this special guest episode of Atelier Talks, we’re joined by one of the most trusted names in Early Years consultancy: Vanessa Dooley, founder of Jigsaw Early Years and the voice behind the Get Inspection Ready podcast. Together, we unpack the brand-new OFSTED Early Years Inspection Toolkit, which comes into effect from November 10th, and what it really means for Early Years settings.

This episode explores why collaboration, not hierarchy, builds sustainable teams in Early Years settings. Continuing on from where we left off in episode 12, we’re going even deeper into Early Years leadership, moving beyond titles and job roles and exploring what it really means to grow leadership from the ground up. From coaching your Early Years team day-to-day to developing new leaders in post, we’re sharing what works, what’s challenging, and how we support our staff to thrive.

In this episode, we explore the unique style of leadership that shapes everything we do at Atelier, in both our nurseries and consultancy. Moving away from traditional hierarchies, we share how emotionally intelligent, collaborative leadership can create a culture of clarity, empathy, and purpose in Early Years. From vision-setting and reflective practice to distributive leadership and growing new leaders from within, we discuss the balance of kindness and challenge, structure and flexibility that defines our approach.

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.

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.