The Local Authority Early Years Team recently brought together early years professionals from across the area through its regular Early Years SENCo Network and Childminders Network meetings.
These forums play a vital role in continuing professional development and improving outcomes for young children with special educational needs and disabilities.
The meetings welcome professionals from across the Early Years sector from Private, Voluntary and independent settings, schools and academies.
A wide-ranging agenda ensured that attendees benefited from both strategic updates and hands-on advice.
Specialist input from the Local Authority’s Educational Team for Hearing and Vision explored how small, thoughtful changes can make a big difference for children with additional needs.
This included practical examples such as adapting resources, using clear communication, and creating inclusive environments so all children can learn alongside their peers.
The session also featured contributions from Family Hubs, showcasing their “Best Start in Life” programme.
This initiative supports families from pregnancy through early childhood, offering joined-up services in one place. Looking ahead, every Family Hub will have a dedicated Best Start Inclusion Practitioner making it easier for families to access advice, early support, and evidence-based interventions.
Practitioners were also supported to use the Department for Education’s Good Level of Development (GLD) standards as a tool to target teaching and close achievement gaps early.
Additional discussions covered training opportunities, transition support, data-informed practice, and practical strategies to strengthen the home learning environment—helping parents and carers support development beyond the setting.
The Childminders Network meeting also benefited from expert input from the Educational Psychology Service, who delivered a session on Emotion Coaching.
This approach helps children to understand and manage their feelings. Practitioners explored constructive ways to support children to communicate and build positive relationships.
Ann-Marie Matson, Director for Children’s Services at North East Lincolnshire Council said, “These events highlight the strength of partnership working across the sector, with a shared commitment to improving outcomes for young children through collaboration, training, and practical support.
“By bringing professionals together to learn, share and collaborate, the Local Authority Early Years Team continues to ensure that all practitioners are equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence to provide the best possible support for every child.”
Attendees shared positive feedback about the forums.
Amy Millson, Manager at Ready Teddy Go and Ready Teddy Go Signhills, said,
“It was useful and very informative, particularly the Family Hub speakers and the Educational Team for Hearing and Vision.
“It’s helped us to connect with other settings and teams and work together as a collective.”
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