In this thought-provoking episode of the Best Practice Network Apprenticeship Podcast, hosts Tatia Singleton and Emma Minchella are joined by Deanne Cook, Managing Director of Northumbria University Nursery, to explore a critical but often overlooked issue in early years education: employment law. Together, they discuss staff rights, employer responsibilities, workplace wellbeing, and the impact that poor employment practices can have on recruitment, retention, and workforce sustainability across the sector.

Drawing on real experiences from practitioners and leaders, the conversation shines a light on issues such as lunch breaks, training time, contracts, apprentices' rights, and the need for greater awareness of employment law across early years settings. Deanne also shares details of her growing campaign and petition to improve employment rights education and accountability within the sector, making this an essential listen for nursery managers, practitioners, apprentices, and anyone passionate about creating fairer workplaces in early years.

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