Delivering high-quality professional development for the early years workforce and setting-level bespoke support
Every Early Years Stronger Practice Hub (EYSPH) is dedicated to helping early years providers strengthen practice, improve outcomes for children, and access free, evidence-informed professional development.
Across England, each of the 36 Hubs has specialist Early Years Learning Leads (EYLLs) with expertise in Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED), early language, and early maths. Working closely with local settings, they provide free practical support, training, and guidance tailored to the needs of their communities
The programme is part of the government's ambition to improve outcomes for children and increase the proportion achieving a Good Level of Development by 2028, helping to ensure every child gets the best possible start in life.
By engaging with your local Hub, you can benefit from expert support, connect with peers, share effective practice, and become part of a growing network committed to improving outcomes for young children.
Who can receive support?
Free support is available to educators and settings working with pre-reception aged children.
What does support look like?
Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
The Early Years Stronger Practice CPD programme is designed by early years experts and delivered locally by EYLLs to build educators' knowledge, confidence, and skills.
Participants can access:
- Subject-specific professional development for educators working with children aged 2-4, drawing on content from the Early Years Professional Development Programme (PDP3).
- Dedicated early maths and early language CPD for educators working with children under 2.
Delivered through a structured cohort model over one academic term, the programmes take a blended approach of self-directed online modules that you can complete at your own pace and EYLL-led seminars/webinars. The programme also provides opportunities to collaborate with other practitioners, reflect on practice, and learn from colleagues across the sector.
Bespoke Support
Settings can also access up to 3 days of free personalised, subject-specific support tailored to their individual priorities and challenges.
This may include:
- An EYLL working alongside your team to review and understand current practice.
- Coaching, modelling of effective practice, and opportunities for professional reflection.
- Support to develop a bespoke action plan focused on identified priorities and improvement goals.
This collaborative approach helps create meaningful and sustainable improvements that benefit both practitioners and children.
Applications for bespoke support open at the start of each term, with support delivered during the following term.
Interested in getting involved?
Whether you are looking to enhance your practice, develop staff expertise, connect with other local providers, or access tailored support for your setting, your local Early Years Stronger Practice Hub can help.
Get in touch with your local Hub today to find out more, express your interest, and explore the free support opportunities available to your setting.