Events

£120.00 ex. VAT

Friday 16th January, 2026 9.30 til 3.30 Immaculate Conception Church Hall 2049 Maryhill Road, Glasgow, G20 0AA We are excited to host Dr Sam Wass and June O’Sullivan OBE in Glasgow. From Wonder to Wisdom: Exploring the Science of Early Learning Keynote – Dr Sam Wass “The Science of Attention: How Young Children Focus, Learn, and Stay Engaged” In this fascinating keynote, Dr Sam Wass will draw on the latest research in neuroscience and child psychology to explain how attention and concentration develop in the early years, and why some children find it harder than others. He’ll challenge common myths about “short attention spans,” explore how environmental stress and noise affect focus, and offer evidence-based insights for how early years practitioners can better support children’s self-regulation and sustained engagement in play and learning. Sam Wass “Neuroscience in Practice” In this follow-up session, Sam will break down complex neuroscience into practical, relevant insights for the early years. He’ll explore: • How babies’ brains process information from birth. • The impact of stress, unpredictability, and adult responses on brain development. • How we can create environments that support better attention, emotional regulation, and memory. • Why, ‘how’ we interact matters, just as much as what we do. From Curiosity to Change: Action Research in the Early Years June O'Sullivan OBE Join us for an inspiring and practical workshop designed to empower early years teams to use simple action research as a tool for continuous improvement. Drawing on the principles championed by June O’Sullivan and the innovative practice at LEYF, this session will explore how everyday observations, new science, and professional curiosity can come together to spark real change in play, pedagogy, and outcomes for children. Together, we’ll demystify action research and show how even the smallest inquiry, rooted in what you notice every day, can lead to meaningful development across your setting. Whether you’re new to research or already a reflective practitioner, this session will give you the confidence, structure, and inspiration to ask good questions, test ideas, and embed a culture of learning and innovation in your team. Igniting Curiosity: Early Learning Lab Join Alice and Marie as they introduce the transformative concept of Early Learning Labs, a fresh, dynamic approach to professional development in the early years. These Labs are immersive, hands-on sessions designed to spark curiosity, deepen pedagogical understanding, and empower educators to reimagine their everyday practice. Rooted in Alice’s passion for child-led learning, creative environments, and intentional interactions, the Early Learning Labs provide early years teams with the time and space to experiment, reflect, and grow. Each Lab focuses on key areas of early development, explored through real materials, real questions, and real children’s experiences. Join them to engage in a mini-lab! Please note that lunch will not be provided on the day Tea/coffee will be available £120+vat per person More info here: sam wass training day Group discounts are available get in touch via info@alicesharp.co.uk or 01415571666

£600.00 ex. VAT

“High-quality play doesn’t happen by accident, it needs expert leadership. A lead educator models great practice, supports professional growth, ensures consistency, and keeps play central to how we plan, teach, and learn together.” Our New Course

• provides a clear vision for what high-quality play looks like and how it connects to learning.
• mentor’s others, shares strategies, and helps everyone grow their practice.
• guides the approach, to ensure play experiences are more consistent
• encourages reflection, helping the team observe, question, and refine their play environments
• and interactions to continually improve outcomes
• The Bigger Picture – Pedagogy defined
• The Child; Values; Theories; Methods and Techniques;
• The Environment and Emotional, Mental and Physical Wellbeing
• Leading Each Child to Learn

Our new course is a combination of in person and online session lead by Marie Richardson, with guest speakers Alice Sharp, Professor Moira Boland. June O’Sullivan OBE, There will be eight in person sessions. Provisional dates are all Mondays: 26th Jan, 16th Feb, 9th March, 30th March, 20th April, 11th May, 1st June, 22nd June. There are only 10 places available In Glasgow from 6pm til 9pm. Only £600 plus VAT Also included in the cost are •12 hours of films (Alice Sharp, June O’Sullivan, Moyra Boland, Anne Paterson •6 Magazines bursting with theory, thinking, practice case studies and examples •50 Practice Change Cards More details here: Leading Play Evening Course