In this episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, host Emma Minchella is joined by guest Ka Lai Brightley-Hodges from Coram Pacey to explore the findings from the Magic of Childminding 2026 report and celebrate the incredible impact childminders have on children, families and communities.

Together, they discuss what makes childminding such a distinctive form of childcare, the importance of long-term relationships and emotional security for children, and why so many childminders remain passionate about the profession for years. They also explore the vital role childminders play in supporting babies and young children, creating rich learning experiences through everyday life, and providing trusted support for whole families.

Explore what organisational values really mean in practice. You will reflect on whether values are lived or just displayed, how they shape behaviour and decision making, and how they hold up under pressure. This episode encourages you to align values, actions and culture to lead with greater consistency and clarity.

Steph Larner-Pickin is an Assistant Headteacher in an Alternative Provision Academy and PRU in the north west of England. She has a particular interest in ethical leadership and what drives us as school leaders to make the decisions we do, including balancing accountability with compassion and the wellbeing of everyone within the organisation. Steph holds values-based practice close to her heart and believes that strong schools are built upon inclusion, justice, transparency, aspiration and trust.

Resources

Level 7 Organisational values - PowerPoint

In this upcoming episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, hosts Emma Minchella and Tatia Singleton are joined by maths and English tutor Tamara Priestman. Together, they explore how the virtual classroom sessions are designed to be engaging, supportive, and inclusive for all learners.

Through real-life examples, they highlight how the virtual classrooms are both accessible and enjoyable, and why creating a positive environment is key to building confidence and encouraging participation. The episode also offers valuable insight into how tailored support and interactive teaching approaches can help you develop essential skills, succeed in their maths and English functional skills exams, and unlock long-term career opportunities.

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