Episode 126: Play, Pressure & the Future of Early Years
40m | Sep 7, 2026In this episode of the Twinkl Talks EYFS Podcast, Michelle is joined by leading Early Years consultant and author Dr Alistair Bryce-Clegg for an honest and thought-provoking conversation about play, pressure and the future of Early Years.
Together, they explore what young children need most from the adults supporting them, including care, empathy and a strong understanding of child development. They question whether the Good Level of Development continues to serve children effectively and consider what the right balance between play and direct teaching should look like in Reception.
Alistair and Michelle also discuss the preparation of newly qualified teachers, the risks of relying too heavily on prescribed schemes and the importance of giving practitioners the knowledge and confidence to challenge expectations that may not reflect how young children learn.
With Reception currently under increased scrutiny, they consider the pressure placed on teachers and support staff by national targets and how the sector can continue protecting child-centred, developmentally appropriate practice.
In this episode, we cover:
- What young children need most from the adults around them
- Whether the Good Level of Development still serves children effectively
- Balancing play and direct teaching in Reception
- Preparing newly qualified teachers for Early Years practice
- Looking beyond prescribed teaching schemes
- The pressures facing Reception teachers and support staff
- Protecting developmentally appropriate practice in the future
🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.
https://www.twinkl.co.uk/campaign/reception-hub
🎥 Prefer to watch? Find the episode on our YouTube channel:
🔗 Want to discover more from Alistair? Explore his work, training, books and practical Early Years guidance below:
Dr Alistair Bryce-Clegg MBE (@abcdoes) • Instagram profile
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-alistair-bryce-clegg-mbe-5710321a/
Alistair Bryce-Clegg at ABC Does
