Early years foundation stage conference 2026

Conference programme

09:30  Welcome and introduction - Samantha Chapman, Amy Fredrick and Katie Johnson, Early Years Service Leads (Devon Localities)

09:40  Bigger picture introduction from Early Years

Session to include

      • Redesign outcomes and impacts
      • Best start in life
      • Settings contribution moving forward

10:00  Building a culture of belonging - Cultivating Care and Connection across Devon Early Years - Mark Finnis, Founder and Director of L30 Relational Systems

We talk about inclusion. But do we design for it? 

Restorative and Relational Practice is about elevating the culture of a school so people are pulled in, not pushed out, about fostering a greater sense of belonging and a sense of community.

It’s about encouraging a willingness to act in the right way for the right reasons. 

So, how do you change the culture of an EYFS school or setting? One room at a time. Where do you start? In the one you’re in now.

11:15  Refreshments, networking and exhibition

11:45  Workshop session 1 - see below for workshops

  • How to become relational with an EY child
  • Building bonds through music
  • Connection at meal times
  • Best Start in life
  • Storytime

13:00  Lunch, networking and exhibition

14:15  Workshop session 2 - see below for workshops

  • How to become relational with an EY child
  • Building bonds through music
  • Connection at meal times
  • Best Start in life
  • Storytime

15:15  Keynote - Alice Sharpe, CEO Alice Sharp LTD

More information coming soon... 

16:15  Close of conference