Mixed-age classes can work brilliantly — but what happens when change is driven by necessity rather than vision?

Re-release: Originally aired on 13 Feb 2026

Anne Brass and Kate Gingles join us to discuss the complexities schools face with mixed-age classes, from establishing a clear guiding purpose to navigating structural change with limited guidance available.

Episode Links

• Order our New Guide to Mixed-Age Classes
• Discover more from Education Durham
• Download the Free School Leader Reflection Tool on Mixed-Age Classes
• Find out more about the Education Durham Mixed Phase Magic guidance books

What can visual art experiences really unlock for young children — and how do you make the most of them in practice?

Re-release: Originally aired on 27 Mar 2026

Dr Gai Lindsay joins us to explore the rich learning opportunities that visual art experiences offer young children, with practical guidance for teachers and practitioners on bringing creativity to life in their settings.

Episode Links

• Explore Dr Gai Lindsay's website
• Order a copy of her book on Amazon
• Discover Early Excellence resources to facilitate creativity

Lucy Fox from Stoke Primary School in Coventry joins us for this week’s episode, as we explore the impact of screen-free practice in the EYFS.

Episode Links

• Read the Blog: Block Play Alongside Small World Resources
• Read the Blog: Navigating the Sea of Talk - why language-rich environments go beyond labels and key words
• Explore language-rich environment resources on the Inspiration Hub App