Senior Leader Briefing – Spring 2026

Knowledgeable Leadership: Exploring Expectations, Strengthening Understanding

Description

At our latest essential Senior Leadership briefing, we will update you on related information from the DfE, as well as the Education Endowment Foundation and other recent Early Years research.

With the current spotlight still shining brightly on the Reception year, we will be reflecting on the range of guidance and materials which have been provided by the DfE to school leaders and the implications these have for strategic planning of school improvement priorities. This January also saw the latest publication from Kindred Squared on ‘Reception Readiness’.  We will be unpicking the headlines and exploring the key messages for schools, settings and the wider community.

As we see the first Inspection reports being published, hear from Kirsty Godfrey, Deputy Director Schools and Early Education Policy, who will be outlining in depth the new Ofsted expectations regarding knowledgeable leadership of the early years, alongside other key aspects of the new inspection framework and related methodology.

With a clear focus from the DfE on narrowing the disadvantage gap, we will also be exploring guidance around the effective use of Pupil Premium and EYPP; drawing on case studies and the latest research regarding impactful use of this funding

This session will ensure that Senior Leaders in schools and settings, as well as LA and MAT colleagues who support schools, are fully updated on the latest national issues and policy direction.

The session will provide at a strategic and practical level:

  • The opportunity to keep up to date with latest information relating to Early Years and KS1

  • Vital insights around the changes to the inspection process from Kirsty Godfrey, Deputy Director Schools and Early Education Policy

  • Reflect on the resources available to support leaders with strengthening the Reception Year

Audience

Not to be missed by Heads, Deputies, EYFS and KS1 leaders, LA and MAT colleagues who support schools

On Demand Webinar

Choose to purchase a recorded version to extend your understanding. Please note access to the recording will be available from Thursday 12th March and can be accessed for 14 days.

Prices

Live Webinar - £85 per person (excl. VAT)

Recording - £85 per person (excl. VAT)

Please note that our online training courses are priced per person and multiple viewings of a course will be charged.