smalltalk - Spring 2016

smalltalk…supporting the early years sector in Wales for over 30-years.

Published quarterly since spring 1986 and mailed free of charge to all Early Years Wales formerly Wales PPA members, smalltalk is the must-read title for early years education and childcare providers in Wales.

Our 24-page, full colour magazine is packed full of articles to inspire you to embed and inform high-quality practice, whilst continuing to run a successful business.

So, let’s start as we mean to go on.

Our first issue of 2016 is going to be no exception, it is jam packed. We kick start the issue however with some important thank-you’s. Feel free to pat yourselves on the back!

In Foundation Phase: Talking Point, Kelcie Hurley showcases sector-leading practice and celebrates Aberporth Playgroup’s recent Estyn inspection. On page 8, we welcome Vicky Quigley from Denma Consulting Ltd to give you a step-by-step guide to Auto Enrolment. If you haven’t already, her advice is to start dealing with it ASAP.

We are offering you the opportunity for continuing professional development. Jane Alexander, CEO, invites nominations from individuals to be on our Board of Trustees.

Are you looking to learn a new skill? Matt Anthony talks about the benefits of being able to understand and speak more than one language on page 14, and how this can be implemented in your setting with our Un, dau, tri – hwyl a sbri course. Available exclusively to Wales PPA members.

After you’ve ticked everything else off your ‘to do’ list, including the Urgent Appeal from the CSSIW regarding the changes to staffing ratios. You may want to just curl up with a good book. Sarah Wiggin discusses the importance of reading and exploring stories with babies and young children on page 18.