Early Years Consultant

Helping early years settings thrive

Former Ofsted inspector with 40 years in early years education. I work alongside nurseries, pre-schools and EYFS settings to raise quality, strengthen practice and prepare for inspection with confidence.

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300+

settings supported to achieve Outstanding and Strong Standard

What I Do

Research-backed consultancy for every stage

Ofsted Preparation

Mock inspections, compliance audits and leadership coaching to ensure your setting is inspection-ready. I know exactly what inspectors look for because I was one.

Training & CPD

Bespoke staff development rooted in the latest EYFS research. From phonics and early maths to self-regulation and schemas.

Quality Improvement

Comprehensive provision reviews, curriculum audits and environment assessments. A clear action plan to move from where you are to where you want to be.

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My Approach

Evidence-led,
practice-focused

I don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every setting has its own strengths, context and challenges. My role is to understand yours and help you build on what's already working.

Listen and observe

I spend time in your setting, watching practice, talking to staff and understanding your culture.

Identify and prioritise

Clear, honest feedback on strengths and areas for development, with a prioritised action plan.

Support and sustain

Ongoing support to embed improvements. I stay with you until the changes stick.

What Settings Say

Trusted by nurseries across England

"I have worked with Julie for over five years and trust her recommendations and judgement implicitly. She is extremely knowledgeable about Ofsted and remains up to date with current practice. Her mock inspections put our practitioners at ease and her constructive feedback has improved outcomes for our children. We couldn't recommend Julie highly enough."

Domenica Hume

Nursery Director, Giant Leap Childcare - 3 settings, 50+ practitioners

"Mrs Firth has been providing invaluable support to my two London-based childcare settings for five years. Her exceptional breadth of knowledge and distinguished service as an Ofsted inspector have had a transformative impact on our provision. She consistently demonstrates professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to raising standards. I cannot think of a more deserving individual."

Elaine Brown

Director, Cherubins Day Nursery - 2 settings, London

"Julie's contribution to our nursery has been nothing short of exemplary. Her training sessions have been transformative in their impact, combining professional rigour with warmth and encouragement. She has an exceptional gift for identifying areas for improvement whilst maintaining the confidence and morale of those she supports. Julie has been a lifeline to both myself and my team."

Rachel Critchley

Director, Tender Years Day Nursery

"Julie has made an exceptional contribution to strengthening practice within our setting. Her mock Ofsted inspection significantly supported our readiness for inspection. Staff feedback has been consistently positive. Her dedication to raising standards is clear, and the positive impact of her work has been felt across our whole team."

Sade Okocha

Director, Oak Tree Day Nursery - London