Early language development
There are many opportunities to explore Early Language Development in the system. Here are just a few. If there are more to highlight and share please get in touch learning ambition email address
Have some expertise to offer or have something to share? Get in touch
Wensum English Hub
Join the Wensum Hub for Talk, Teach and Thrive, essential training for TAs, a free dynamic 90 minute session exploring early language development in the EYFS and primary phase February link flyer.
Are or know an ECT? In March, the hub are also offering Early Voices, Strong Foundations: Essential Training for ECTs- link flyer.
The hub also run a Supporting Early Language Development Programme. You can register your interest in the 2026/7 programme here: here
Wensum hub offers a wide range of opportunities for the EYFS including Ready to Write: Reception's Building Blocks for Success in April. Visit their events and training page here: Events & Training - Wensum Trust
Communication Hubs
Norfolk Communication Hub meetings are face-to-face, fully-funded and jam-packed with high-quality CPD. So if you are looking for local, professional speech and language support, with opportunities to ask questions to a speech and language therapist, then you've come to the right place. To find out more and to reserve your space please visit webpage.
You can also listen to the Norfolk Early Years podcast's Let's Talk....Building Oracy in the Early Years
Listen via Apple Podcasts: The Norfolk Early Years Podcast - Podcast - Apple Podcasts
Listen via Spotify: The Norfolk Early Years Podcast | Podcast on Spotify
DfE RISE Reception Year Quality Showcases
You can access recordings of the Autumn term's Reception Quality webinar series including a session on embedding a language rich environment Reception quality webinar series: autumn 2025 - Case study - GOV.UK
Nuffield Early Learning Intervention
The Nuffield Early Learning Intervention (NELI) programme targets reception-aged children who need extra support with their speech and language development. Children who take part in the NELI programme make on average 4 months of additional progress in oral language skills. This increases to 7 months for children on free school meals. The DfE-funded NELI programme is available to all state-funded schools with a reception class.
Free online Early years child development training
This free online training for childminders, nursery practitioners, reception teachers and Teaching assistants is designed to build and improve understanding of child development. It provides practical tips and ideas to use in your setting to help children aged 0-5 years. The training is for anyone who is new to early years and looking to build their child development knowledge. However, it is also useful for anyone looking to refresh their knowledge and has a specific module on early language development.
If you are an early years setting or childminder, the stronger practice hub can support you with any aspect of the EYFS, including developing early language. If you are a new manager, a SENDCo or even an established setting looking for new ideas and inspiration, you could access bespoke support from Stronger Practice Hubs
