Jo Heaton explains why high-quality early years provision is at the heart of her mission to give every child the best possible start in life and introduces a new series to help schools and nurseries make a lasting difference for children who need it most.
I have always been driven by a deep belief in equality of opportunity. As chief executive of Northern Lights Learning Trust and a trustee at Ambition Institute, my mission is clear: to make sure every child, especially the most disadvantaged and vulnerable, receives the best possible education. And I know from experience that when we invest in professional development for educators, we unlock the greatest impact on outcomes for young people across the country.
My journey began in the classroom, where I learned that thriving is all about people – children, families, staff and the wider community. Whether I was teaching, leading a school, or now as chief executive, my priority has always been to help everyone flourish. The relationships we build are what allow us to support, improve and learn together. People are stronger when they feel connected, and it is vital to remember that everyone is an individual. That understanding has shaped my approach at every stage of my career.
Joining Ambition’s board was a natural step for me. I wanted to be part of an organisation that shares my values and vision. As a trustee, I bring the lived experience of leading a trust and working alongside other schools and trusts. This perspective means I can help drive meaningful change, informed by what really happens in classrooms and staffrooms every day.
One of the most exciting aspects of my role as a trustee is helping to shape Ambition’s strategic priorities at a time when education faces significant challenges. I am particularly passionate about Ambition’s strategic focus on early years education. I see every day how high-quality early years provision can transform lives and create lasting change. When we get it right from the very beginning, we set children on a path to thrive – not just academically, but as confident, happy individuals.
As a Department for Education-designated Early Years Stronger Practice Hub, my trust works with early years practitioners to share evidence-based advice and professional development, and support children from birth to reception. We bring together childminders, private and voluntary settings, maintained nursery schools, and primary schools, creating networks that share effective practice and respond to the sector’s needs. Our aim is to improve outcomes for disadvantaged and vulnerable children.
Early years education is complex and often unfamiliar, especially for leaders who are balancing competing priorities. Yet research and experience show that effective leadership in early years settings is one of the most powerful ways to improve outcomes for children. When we support and guide our teams effectively, we create the conditions for excellent practice, where both children and practitioners can flourish.
That’s why I’m delighted to introduce this new blog series, designed to support headteachers and early years leaders in guiding their teams to deliver high-quality early years provision. Each blog will offer clear, practical guidance focused on the areas that matter most – supporting staff, understanding the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), and building strong foundations for learning. It will draw on insights from experienced practitioners and leaders, and advise you on the core principles of the EYFS: the unique child, positive relationships, enabling environments, and learning and development. You will also see a strong emphasis on investing in staff development and reflective practice.
The EYFS is a rich and multifaceted framework, and your leadership is key to making it work in your context. I hope this series helps you lead with clarity and purpose, and gives you the tools and confidence to make a real difference in your setting. Together, we can shape the future of education and give every child the best possible start in life.
