Early Maths Professional Development Programme
Starting this autumn term 2026, the Bristol and Beyond Stronger Practice Hub Early Maths Learning Leads are running the Early Maths Professional Development Programme (PDP). We are recruiting 15 Early Years settings per cohort to take part in this fully funded programme. Within these attendance numbers, and depending on demand, we may be able to consider up to two attendees per setting.
Meet your Learning Lead
The autumn term Early Maths PDP is led by Cate Peel.
Cate Peel
Cate has been working in Early Years for over 35 years and is currently the Headteacher of Hartcliffe Nursery School. Her driving purpose is to serve the children and families of Hartcliffe and give them the best start so they can thrive. She also has a passion for professional development, and her roles have included: Programme Lead for Early Years Teacher Training, Boolean Maths Lead and 5 Counties Professional Tutor for NPQEYL. Cate is fascinated by early mathematics and how young children learn. She is excited to be leading the PDP Maths Programme and working in collaboration with practitioners to develop skills and confidence and share good practice.
Download the Flyer
Who it is for
The Early Maths PDP is designed for PVIs, childminders and schools with nursery classes who have 2 to 4 year olds attending their setting. The course content is aimed at Early Years practitioners who are qualified at Level 3 and above.
What is involved
The Early Maths PDP, developed by the DfE, is completed over one academic term. It includes six online modules and three seminars, one of which is held face to face. During the seminars participants check their understanding, reflect together on their own practice, and leave with practical ideas and activities to put into place in their own settings. The course is led by our Early Maths Learning Lead.
Module overview
- Unit 1: Counting
- Unit 2: Cardinality
- Unit 3: Measurement
- Unit 4: Pattern
- Unit 5: Shape
- Unit 6: Space
Autumn Term 2026 cohort
Our Early Maths PDP will run one cohort per term. The cohorts will be open to attendees from across our regions OR will be specified by Local Authority. The autumn cohort is below. Spring and summer cohorts will be announced later in the year.
Bristol PVIs and Schools: Early Maths PDP Cohort
Led by: Cate Peel
Deadline for expressions of interest: Monday 19 October 2026, 9am
Programme dates: sessions are held on Tuesdays, with a mix of online and face to face sessions.
- Introduction: Tuesday 3 November 2026, 4pm to 5pm, online
- Session 1: Tuesday 10 November 2026, 2pm to 4pm, face to face at the St Paul’s Community Room
- Session 2: Tuesday 17 November 2026, 4pm to 5.30pm, online
- Session 3: Tuesday 1 December 2026, 4pm to 5.30pm, online
- Action planning and celebration: Tuesday 8 December 2026, 4pm to 5.30pm, face to face at the St Paul’s Community Room
There is no session in the week beginning 23 November.
Outside our region?
If you are an Early Years setting from outside the local authority listed above and you are interested in joining this CPD opportunity, please complete our general Expression of Interest form.
If you have any questions, please contact sph@beyth.co.uk.
