Great ideas grow when they're shared. Across Birmingham, early years educators are finding creative ways to strengthen practice, respond to challenges and make a difference for children and families.
This collection of case studies shines a light on that work and the learning behind it.
These case studies share examples of thoughtful, effective practice from our Enhanced Projects and other aspects of work from early years educators across the city.
They illustrate how teams have adapted, innovated, and strengthened their work with children and families.
Each one offers a clear, practical snapshot of what was tried, why it mattered, and the impact it had — providing ideas and approaches that others can draw on and weave into their own settings and practice.
By sharing this work, we aim to strengthen connections across Birmingham, build a community of practice, and support colleagues to learn from one another’s experiences.
If you have something you would like to share, please get in contact with us.
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Helicopter Stories Case Studies
Helicopter Stories is a powerful early years approach that develops speaking and listening, builds confidence, strengthens social connections, and supports early reading and writing through shared imagination.
Part of our programme of Enhanced Projects currently running across the city, these case studies reflect the experiences of real settings that have taken part in the programme in 2025/26.
Each case study includes:
Setting details and context
What they did
Any challenges they faced
What they learnt along the way
Impact on the children/practice within the setting
Review and reflections
Grapevine Childcare - Helicopter Stories Case Study [PDF]
Smart Start Childcare - Helicopter Stories Case Study [PDF]
Victoria School - Helicopter Stories Case Study [PDF]
Transition Case Studies
Transitions happen constantly in early years settings. Whether they are small everyday transitions — like tidying up, going outdoors, or moving to carpet time — or significant milestone transitions like starting nursery or school, each transition shapes how children feel, behave, and learn.
The thoughtful, child-centred practice happening daily across our city’s settings is making a real difference — helping children feel safe, connected, and ready for change.
These shared efforts show that transitions are a core part of early years practice; when they're well supported, everything becomes easier for the child, and their confidence and wellbeing shine through.
Ladypool Primary School - Transition Case Study [PDF]
Norton Hall Children & Family Centre - Transition Case Study [PDF]
WellComm Case Studies
WellComm is a speech and language screening and support tool used across Birmingham in schools and early years settings.
We have been exploring how the tool supports children of different ages and learning needs.
In these case studies, practitioners from a variety of settings share their experiences, reflections and lessons learned, offering practical strategies, helpful insights, and tips for others beginning or developing their own WellComm journey.
