06 Early Years

Reception Quality Webinar Series

The DfE have shared a series of RISE webinars on reception quality, led by senior sector experts and national leaders on a range of topics. These free webinars support schools, trusts and local authority leaders to improve reception practice to support every child to have the best start in life and increase the number of children who achieve a good level of development at the end of their first year in school.  
 
You can find further information and the recordings of these webinars on gov.uk at: Reception quality webinar series - Case study - GOV.UK 

 
National Professional Qualification in Early Years Leadership 

For those interested in further developing their Early Years Leadership knowledge and skills, the NPQEYL is fully funded for all schools and settings for the Autumn 2026 cohort.   

Early Years Leadership - Generate Teaching Hub 

Although funding is available, places are limited so early application would ensure you can access a fully funded place.

RISE Reception Network

Following its launch in May 2026, the DfE led initiative, Reception Networks, aimed at improving the quality of Reception provision in primary schools has hosted online and in-person events hosted by lead schools. They are part of the Best Start in Life strategy and complement the wider Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence (RISE) support for schools.

Across the North West there are five lead schools, each with proven strengths in Early Years education. Schools within the network benefit from professional collaboration, observational learning, shared resources and transition support.

Visit the RISE Reception Network for your area by clicking the applicable school link below:

Evelyn Street Primary Academy & Nursery - Cheshire East, Cheshire West & Chester, Halton, Salford, Stockport, Trafford and Warrington 
Rimrose Hope CofE Primary School - Blackpool, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens, Wigan and Wirral
All Souls Church of England Primary School - Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside
Hayton CofE Primary School - Cumberland
St Thomas’s CofE Primary School - Blackburn with Darwen, Lancashire and Westmoreland & Furness