Early Language Development

Join us for this expertly designed, research-based virtual CPD series focused on language development in the Early Years and Key Stage 1.

This programme equips teachers, leaders, and practitioners with deep understanding and practical tools to support oracy and language acquisition, particularly for children who may not be meeting expected developmental milestones.

Each session is rooted in the latest research and includes real-world strategies to take straight into the classroom. Ideal for teachers, teaching assistants, early years practitioners, SENDCos, and leaders, this course builds confidence in identifying and supporting Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN).

Course Schedule:
Session 1: Thursday 26th November 2026 - 9.30am-3pm
Session 2: Thursday 11th March 2027 - 9.30am-3pm
Session 3: Thursday 24th June 2027 - 9.30am-3pm

Session Overviews:
Session 1
What is Language and How Is It Developed
Understand the components of language: form, content, and use
Explore the importance of early language focus in classrooms
Learn about the role of attachment and early book sharing
Typical language development from 1–5 years
Introduction to the 'building blocks' of language
Supporting Talk in Schools
A simple framework for quality interactions
How to create and manage a talk-rich environment
Recognising and enabling quality talk
Strategies to support and extend conversations

Session 2
Teaching Words and Making Them Stick
How vocabulary is learned and stored
Addressing the 'word gap'
Exploring tiered vocabulary and teaching strategies
Embedding vocabulary through meaningful contexts
Identifying and Supporting SLCN
Understanding the prevalence and impact of SLCN
Identification tools and classroom strategies
Supporting children with EAL and SEMH
Working collaboratively with parents and specialists

Session 3
Making Change, Sustaining Change
Applying change theory to your school context
Planning for sustainable impact
Creating a robust Early Language Action Plan
Embedding strategies across your team
Sharing the School Improvement Journey
Celebrating progress and impact
Sharing effective practice and outcomes
Next steps for whole-school language development

Key Outcomes:
Deepen your knowledge of language development and SLCN
Build a toolkit of practical classroom strategies
Improve outcomes in communication and language
Develop a whole-school approach to oracy and early language
Build confidence in planning and sustaining change

Format:
All sessions are delivered face-to-face at the venue highlighted in the course details and include interactive elements, gap tasks, and resources to apply in your setting between sessions.

Who should attend?
Early Years Practitioners
KS1 Teachers
SENCOs
English and Oracy Leads
Headteachers & Senior Leaders