Early Language Development (Online)

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:

All sessions are delivered live via Zoom | 3:30–5:30pm

Session 1: Thursday 30th September 2026
Session 2: Wednesday 25th November 2026
Session 3: Wednesday 3rd February 2027
Session 4: Wednesday 3rd March 2027
Session 5: Wednesday 28th April 2027
Session 6: Wednesday 23rd June 2027

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

Session 2: 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 3: 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

Session 4: 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 5: 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

Session 6: Sharing the School Improvement Journey
Celebrating progress and impact
Sharing effective practice and outcomes
Next steps for whole-school language development

Format:
All sessions are delivered online via Zoom 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