In this new episode of Clebran: Early Years in Focus has been released, we turn the spotlight on one of the sector's most pressing workforce issues: how early years settings can successfully attract, support and retain Gen Z employees.

With recruitment and retention continuing to challenge nurseries and early years providers across the country, this episode aims to offer managers practical, actionable guidance rather than abstract theory. The discussion centres on what a new generation of practitioners is really looking for from their working life, and how settings can adapt to meet those expectations without losing sight of the demands of high-quality early years practice.

Joining the podcast is Farah Farooq, Director at Scope Training and Bright Bees Nursery Group, who brings a dual perspective to the conversation, drawing on her experience both training early years professionals and running a nursery group. That combination gives her insight into the workforce pipeline from two angles: how new practitioners are prepared for the sector, and what actually keeps them there once they arrive.

In the first episode of the Clebran: Early Years in focus, hosted by Early Years Wales, Dave and Leo are joined by Professor Diane Craft, who talks to us about the vital role that movement has in the development of young children.

Diane shares her insights, research, and examples of how and why movement is so important. You can find out more about Diane and her work below:

Website here: https://activeplaybooks.com/

Diane’s email: Diane.Craft@cortland.edu

If you have any questions for us, we’d love to hear from you:

Email: info@earlyyears.wales

You can also find out more about our work by visiting:

Website: https://www.earlyyears.wales/en