Play, access and opportunity: Game-changing action for children

This is a recording from the PEDAL Conference 2025 which took place on Wednesday 11 June 2025. This year's theme was “Playing for the Future: 10 Years of PEDAL”.

In this presentation, Julian will draw on his experience of working in early education and care for more than three decades to consider:

The importance of play in early education and care

Why play matters in under-served neighbourhoods, and what educators might do

How we might rethink play so it’s more inclusive

Watch the PEDAL Conference 2025 playlist on YouTube

About Dr Julian Grenier CBE

Dr Julian Grenier is the Senior Content and Engagement Manager for Early Years at the Education Endowment Foundation.

Before joining the EEF, he was the headteacher of Sheringham Nursery School and Children’s Centre in Newham, East London. During that time, he was a National Leader of Education and was also the Director of East London Research School.

Julian was awarded a CBE for services to Early Years Education in 2022.

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