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The experiences we have as young children shape the rest of our lives. We believe in the importance of play, learning through nature, practical hands-on learning and nurturing...

Froebel Trust Autumn Lecture 2020 Friday 2 October 6pm

The Froebel Trust is delighted to welcome Baroness Floella Benjamin DBE DL as guest speaker for our online Autumn lecture 2020.

New Research - Experiencing lockdown and the return to nursery: young children’s stories

The Froebel Trust is working with the Centre for Research in Early Childhood (CREC) and five Froebelian early childhood settings in three countries to document the experiences...

New article - Friedrich Froebel: a path least trodden

A new article examining Froebelian principles and practice in early childhood education has just been published online by the international journal, Early Child Development an...

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News and events

We run a programme of events & webinars throughout the year. We regularly publish new research, pamphlets, short films & more.

About us

We are a charity which funds practice development and research into education and learning in the early years of childhood from birth to eight years.

Projects

The Froebel Trust funds a diverse range of research and practice development projects in the UK and around the world. Projects which explore and support the learning and devel...

Grants and funding

The Froebel Trust is the only grant maker in England to fund research and practice development that is exclusively concerned with early childhood education and care. Our fund...

Training and resources

The Froebel Trust offers an extensive range of inspiring resources, practical information and training designed to support early childhood educators, carers and all those who ...

About the trust

Friedrich Froebel invented the term 'kindergarten'. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of early childhood educators.

Froebelian principles

Friedrich Froebel (1782 - 1852) was the inventor of kindergartens and a pioneer of early childhood education and care. Froebel’s work and writing changed the way we think abou...

The power of play

A series of articles from leading practitioners around the world exploring ideas about children's play.

Meet our team

You can contact any member of the Froebel Trust team by email office@froebeltrust.org.uk or call our main office 020 8878 7546.

How we work

We are a grant making charity. We rely on trustees and committee members to share their expertise and support the work of the Froebel Trust on a voluntary basis. We value dive...

Research and project library

The Froebel Trust online research library features all our funded early childhood research and practice development projects. You can search the library by keyword, subject an...

Reading list

A useful list of key texts for those seeking a more in-depth understanding of the Froebelian approach to early childhood and the history of kindergartens.

Open call research grants

We fund high quality research to advance knowledge and understanding of Froebelian philosophy, principles and approaches in early childhood education and care, which makes a p...

PhD bursaries

Froebel Trust PhD bursaries support students undertaking research with a Froebelian focus relating to young children’s learning.

Pamphlets and guides

Play and creativity are integral to child development and learning. Our free to download pamphlet series and resources explore themes and activities closely associated with Fr...

Short Courses

We offer a unique, highly respected series of short courses for educators and carers in nursery schools and early years settings.

Froebel's Gifts

Froebel designed "Gifts" to encourage young children to make connections in their learning. The Gifts allow children to experiment and build on their knowledge and skills.

The Froebel Archive

A collection of rare books, photographs and artefacts linked to Friedrich Froebel's educational legacy.

Elinor Goldschmied & treasure baskets

Elinor Goldschmied (1910-2009) had a pioneering impact on early years policy in both the UK and internationally. Her main professional innovations included the Treasure Basket...

Contact us

The Froebel Trust Clarence Lodge Clarence Lane, Roehampton London SW15 5JW T: 020 8878 7546 E: office@froebeltrust.org.uk

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Join our mailing list

Get the latest in early education research, access to free resources, invites to webinars, events and updates on Froebel Trust grants and funding programmes.

Twelve features characterising a Froebelian approach to childhood play

An article by Professor Tina Bruce.

About Friedrich Froebel, who invented “kindergarten”

An article by Dr Stella Louis and Dr Sacha Powell.

Research Grant

Valuing Young Children’s Signs of Learning

Observation and Digital Documentation of Play in Early Years Classrooms

Student Bursary

“I’m learning nature now with them”: what can a holistic perspective contribute to our understanding of the influential relations between young children, adults and a natural environment?

Promoting children’s wellbeing, right to make choices and engage in playful activities in restricted environments through music and singing

Bringing children’s voices to the fore of education for sustainability in the early years

Hearing Infant Voices

'Hearing the voices of babies in baby-educator interactions in Early Childhood Settings'

Looking beneath the surface of what it might mean to say goodbye at two-years-old

Reimagining Teaching: Progressive Pedagogies in Experimental Schools

Exploring ‘playful writing’ opportunities with reception teachers

Expanding understandings of young children’s mark-making, drawing and writing within self-initiated play

On Country Learning: Promoting Remote Australian Aboriginal Children’s Well-being and Creativity

Supporting the transition to primary school of children from migrant, refugee and minoritised communities

A small scale study, based in one large urban early years setting in Scotland, which investigated the transition experiences of children from migrant, refugee and minoritised ...

Froebelian Pedagogy in light of the Children and Families Act 2014

Tributes to Pat Gura 1935 -2020

A collection of tributes from friends and colleagues of Pat Gura, a long-standing champion for young children.

Enacting Froebelian principles in practice

Developing Close, Thoughtful Attention To Children And Families In Early Years Pedagogy

Evaluating the impact of Work Discussion Groups as a model of Professional Support and Reflection

Practice Development and Action Research Grants

Developing musicality in a Froebelian setting

A Froebel Trust grant was awarded to develop musicality and musicianship at a Froebelian primary school.

Early Years Teachers and Practitioners Working in a Time of Lockdown: Accounts from the frontline

Peter Elfer offers a few reflections on the work of leaders, early years teachers and practitioners supporting children and families during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Family Garden

A Scottish nursery was awarded a Froebel Trust grant to develop a family garden involving the local community.

Connect – a nursery community approach to play

A Froebel Trust grant to launch a new weekly family group at a Edinburgh nursery. The group aims to build a supportive community of families and staff, sharing knowledge and e...

Building on Froebel's Approach to Woodwork and Using Real Tools

The Froebel Trust awarded a grant to Woodburn Early Learning & Childcare Centre in Falkirk, Scotland to create an outdoor woodworking area.

Musical Play in Early Years Education: Towards a Model of Autonomy through Adult Support

Principled Encounters in Daycare for Babies: Froebel’s Legacy

Spatially Democratic Pedagogy: A pedagogical intervention to support children’s design and co-creation of classroom space

A new trajectory for Froebel’s Kindergarten spaces?

Reflections from Kate Razzall, a Froebel Trust Travelling Tutor, on her work with a community allotment group

Kate has been working with NECA Community Garden in South Tyneside as they launch a new 'stay and play' outdoor group for local parents/carers and their babies and young child...

4Ps Project: Practitioners & Parents Play Partnership

Strengthening practitioner-parent collaboration through the use of CPD and play built on Froebelian principles and pedagogy

Reception teachers’ and heads of schools’ perspectives and experiences of an observation based assessment that focuses on child-initiated activity

Childhood, Curriculum and Values

A Comparison Between Specific School Ethoi in Ireland and England

How is and can play be supported in ECEC settings, at home and in the community for children living in disadvantaged urban areas?

This research explored conditions for educators and families to create supportive play environments in Irish Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), home and community cont...

Listening-2: Investigating sensory-motor learning in two-year olds

This research uses Froebelian principles to deepen understanding of two-year-old children’s sensory-motor relationships with their environment.

The play-café project: What would Froebelian play cafés look like?

A project exploring the potential of Froebelian principles in new environments, like play cafés, to provide opportunities for high quality learning and education in informal s...

Froebel meets Ofsted: what makes an 'outstanding' nursery?

What constitutes high-quality early years provision from the Ofsted point of view? A study examining how Ofsted judgements align with internationally recognised principles of ...

Froebelian Endeavours, New Education and the 'Researched' Child from the 1900s to the 1960s

Slow knowledge and the unhurried child: time for slow pedagogies in early childhood education

A research project exploring the reasons to be slow in early childhood and gathering practical examples of what slow can look like in Early Childhood Education and Care.

A life ‘in and with nature?’ An exploration of outdoor provision in baby rooms

A research project exploring outdoor provision in baby rooms in nursery settings in England.

Role model, Authoritarian and Humourist: Male Primary School Teachers’ identity construction

A symbolic interactionist and discourse analysis approach.

The effect of maternal postnatal depression on infants' verbal and nonverbal communication skills: A video-based analysis

Reconceptualising Professional Learning and Development through a Froebelian lens

Early childhood educators' perspectives on professional identities in the UK and Italy

Identifying equitable HE practices with the view to improve participation for early childhood practitioners in the UK

This PhD study focuses on developing recommendations for Higher Education Institutions and government bodies on how to adopt equitable practices for Early Childhood students.

Mapping emerging musicality exploring the trajectory of musical development in the early years using the Sounds of Intent Framework

Telling Life Stories: developing a Froebelian approach to documenting children's experiences in the early years

Online

New Froebel Trust webinar: A Celebration of Blocks

Interested in finding out more about how block play supports young children's development and learning? Register for this free webinar.

Launch of our latest pamphlet: Froebel's Gifts & Block Play Today

A new release in our popular pamphlet series explores how wooden block play can support children's development and learning.

The importance of play for learning

New article from Dr Sacha Powell & Dr Stella Louis explores the power of play.

Play

Understanding practitioners' curriculum decision-making to support complexity in children's play in a multi-diverse pre-school setting

A research project which aimed to develop inclusive and responsive approaches to curriculum planning, pedagogy and provision. The final report was published in January 2022.

The voices and experiences of children with autism, and their families, in their transition from nursery to primary school

A research project which captured, through digital storytelling, the school transition experience of five young autistic children and their families.

Reflections on the Froebel Trust Autumn Lecture 2020

Dr Sacha Powell, Chief Executive Officer of the Froebel Trust reflects on Baroness Floella Benjamin's inspiring autumn lecture.

Forest Skills

A Froebel Trust funded project which aimed to address the problem of reduced outdoor free play opportunities available to young primary aged children in West Lothian.

Childhood and play ‘in-between’: Young Iraqi and Syrian child refugees’ play in Lebanon

Exploring the formation of pedagogical beliefs in female early years teachers

Froebelian Play and Aboriginal Knowledges

A research project exploring Froebelian principles in Indigenous early years settings in Australia.

Play, Sing, Talk, Read: A Froebelian approach to language development

Balgreen Nursery School in Edinburgh applied for a Froebel Trust grant to develop a Froebelian approach to young children's language development at their nursery and to run a ...

Cowgate Community Grows - Children's Responses to Evolving Outside Space

A Froebel Trust Practitioner Support Grant allowed an Edinburgh Day Nursery to evaluate the impact of their new garden and outdoor space on children's play, learning and devel...

A Collegiate Enquiry Based Approach to Developing Froebelian Principles and the Froebelian Occupations - Sewing and Clay

A Froebel Trust grant awarded to an Edinburgh nursery and family centre to develop Froebelian practice and principles.

Woodwork at Wester Coates Nursery School

Froebel Trust awarded a grant to an inner city kindergarten in Edinburgh to develop the use of woodwork as a Froebelian Occupation.

Parent Partnership Project

A project which aimed to nurture the relationship and connections between parents/carers in the local community and a nursery school in Hertfordshire.

Home Start IDEAS Project: A New Model of Volunteer-based Family and Child Support

Family Lives: Let's Sing Together

Ex Cathedra's 'Singing Medicine' at Birmingham Children's Hospital

BREEZE Forest School at Scotswood Natural Community Garden

The Froebel Trust supported Scotswood Garden to run a two year forest school project based in their community garden supporting young children in their local area.

Let's Play at Little Angel Theatre, London

Little Angel Theatre is a puppet theatre for children in London. In 2019 the Froebel Trust awarded the theatre with a grant to set up a project to support parents/carers to pl...

Mini Muddy Fingers at NECA (Plant, Create, Play, Educate)

The Froebel Trust awarded a grant to NECA Community Garden to launch a new 'stay and play' outdoor group for local parents/carers and their young children.

New guidance for practitioners on digital documentation

How to use digital documentation to capture the magic and wonder of young children’s learning. A new Froebel Trust publication by Dr Rosie Flewitt and Dr Kate Cowan.

Outdoor Provision for Under-Twos in Early Childhood Settings in Kent

A new Froebel trust publication from Dr Nicola Kemp, Dr Ian Durrant & Dr Jo Josephidou

Social and conceptual spaces, Froebelian Geographies

A new Froebel Trust publication by Valeria Scacchi lists the resources from the Froebel Archive Collection at the University of Roehampton.

Thank you

Thank for you your enquiry. We'll be in touch soon.

The Froebel Research Fellowship Project 2002-2015: Ownership and Autonomy in Early Learning

The Froebel Research Fellowship project was funded by the Froebel Trust and the former Incorporated Froebel Educational Institute from 2002 to 2015. The researchers investigat...

DEADLINE 2 NOVEMBER Birth to 5 Matters curriculum guidance: we need your views

An online survey has been launched today by the Early Years Coalition to find out practitioners’ views and needs for guidance to support the revised EYFS.

Blocks Rock!

Sacha Powell, CEO, Froebel Trust reports on the Celebration of Blocks live webinar. Recording now available to watch online.

New Froebel Trust Annual Review 2020 has arrived!

Want to know about the work of the Froebel Trust and the latest research in early education and care? Have a look at our new Annual Review packed with information about Froe...

New book: Growing a Nursery School from Seed

What are the ingredients needed to create a truly outstanding early years setting? New Froebel Trust book explores the role of maintained nursery schools in leading innovativ...

Young Voices on Covid-19

An exploration of how the Froebel Storytelling Approach can support young children through the COVID-19 pandemic

Young children's perspectives of Covid-19: an international human right to be heard

A new study, commissioned by the Froebel Trust, is beginning to reveal Young Children’s Views of the Covid-19 Pandemic. An update from Sacha Powell, CEO, Froebel Trust

View our latest webinar: Growing A Nursery From Seed: The First 75 Years

Our latest webinar sees Felicity Thomas and Stephanie Harding discuss their new book, Growing a Nursery School from Seed: The First 75 Years.

We're recruiting a new legal trustee

Could you give us 15 hours a year to help us to support young children and those who educate and care for them?

Birth to Five Matters - and so do your views!

Tell us what you think of the first draft of Birth to 5 Matters. Download the draft document and complete the Early Years Coalition's online survey.

Froebel Trust Conference 2021 : Growing through play

Recordings of each of our March conference sessions are now available to watch online. Discover the latest in early education research and practice development...

New release: Tina Bruce's new book on Friedrich Froebel

Sacha Powell, CEO, Froebel Trust celebrates the release of Tina Bruce's latest book, "Friedrich Froebel: A Critical Introduction to Key Themes and Debates"

Support and networks for educators

A list of networks and organisations offering support and information for everyone interested in Froebelian practice, early childhood education and for those who are trained F...

Get involved with Birth to 5 Matters

The latest draft of new EYFS curriculum guidance is released today. Make sure you get involved and have your say...

Celebrating Froebelian women

To mark International Women's Day an article from Jane Read celebrating Froebelian women who chose - and choose - to challenge.

Webinar: Friedrich Froebel: A Critical Introduction to Key Themes and Debates

Join Professor Tina Bruce CBE at this free webinar as she responds to early childhood educators giving their professional reflections on her latest book, 'Friedrich Froebel. A...

Launch of "Birth to Five Matters Curriculum Guidance"

On 31 March 2021 the Early Years Coalition launched curriculum guidance that has been created by the sector, for the sector. The Froebel Trust is supporting this important ini...

New research: Young Voices on Covid-19

A Froebel Trust funded research report explores young children's experiences of and responses to the pandemic.

New pamphlet: The wonder of woodwork

A new addition to the popular Froebel Trust free pamphlet series explores ways to introduce woodwork to young children.

Webinar: The wonder of woodwork with Pete Moorhouse

Recording now available of our latest Froebel Trust webinar exploring ways to introduce woodwork to young children.

Practitioner Support Grants 2021 open for applications

We are pleased to announce that the Froebel Trust Practitioner Support Grant fund is re-opening and welcoming applications from Monday 17 May 2021.

Edinburgh Froebel Network Online Conference 2021

Join a Practitioner Day Conference on International Perspectives on Froebel on Saturday 5 June 2021

Froebel Trust invests £1million in Froebelian education in the UK

A major new Froebel Trust funding programme designed to increase understanding of a Froebelian approach to early education is launching this summer. The programme aims to fost...

Froebel Trust welcomes three new trustees

Dr Sharon Colilles, Catriona Gill and Abha Hurri join the Froebel Trust Council of Trustees.

Finding Froebel: Fatma Busra Aksoy-Kumru

The first of a new series of profiles of educators, researchers and students - sharing what it is about a Froebelian approach to early childhood education that inspires them i...

Digital Play

In light of the technological transformations of the digital age, what do we think Froebel would say about technologies and play? An article by Dr Lynn McNair

Froebel Trust webinar

Annual lecture

Froebel Trust Conference session

Short film

Webinar and film library

Watch short films and recordings from Froebel Trust webinars, conferences and special events - featuring the latest in early childhood education practice and research.

The Wonder of Woodwork

Author and woodwork expert Pete Moorhouse shares his experience of introducing woodwork to young children. A Froebel Trust webinar recorded 4 May 2021.

Friedrich Froebel: A Critical Introduction with Professor Tina Bruce

A special webinar recorded on 29 March 2021 celebrates the work of Professor Tina Bruce CBE.

Where are the babies?

This half day webinar focused on outdoor provision and the opportunities for outdoor learning for children from birth to age 2. This Froebel Trust event was recorded on 20 Mar...

Froebel Trust Conference 2021: Growing through play

The conference sessions were recorded on 6 March 2021. This Froebel Trust event was created for all those who work in early years education and care for young children.

Growing a nursery from seed

During this webinar Felicity Thomas and Stephanie Harding discuss their new book, 'Growing a Nursery School from Seed: The First 75 Years'. Recorded November 2020.

Froebel Trust Lecture 2020: Floella Benjamin

An extract from Baroness Floella Benjamin's lecture about the importance of loving childhoods. Froebel Trust Annual Lecture recorded on 2 October 2020.

A celebration of blocks

A Froebel Trust webinar which explores the relevance of block play in current early years practice. Recorded in October 2020.

Froebel Trust Short Courses Taster Webinar

This webinar gives an introduction to Froebel, the inventor of the Kindergarten and his beliefs about play and self-activity. Recorded in July 2020

Changing early childhood spaces

A Froebel Trust webinar which explores children’s participation in, and mastery over, their spaces, materials and activities. Recorded in July 2020

Young Iraqi and Syrian child refugees' play

This online seminar draws on key findings from Dr Sandra El Gemayel’s PhD thesis on young Iraqi and Syrian child refugees’ play 'in-between': case studies from the northern su...

Everyone’s a singer until someone says they’re not

A Froebel Trust webinar which explores singing as a pedagogical tool. Recorded in June 2020

Exploring Froebel’s idea of ‘unfoldment’

This webinar explores the idea of 'unfoldment' with two-year-olds using slow motion video data. Recorded in June 2020.

Froebel Short Courses - Impact at Linden Tree Nursery Schools

A short presentation from Holli Williams from Linden Tree Nursery Schools in South London. Recorded April 2020.

4th Froebel Network Gathering with Professor Tina Bruce

Professor Tina Bruce reads extracts from her 2020 publication, "Educating Young Children: A Lifetime Journey into a Froebelian Approach". Recorded in April 2020

Does Birth to Three Matters still matter?

Dr Sacha Powell presents a session at Manchester Metropolitan University. Social and cultural changes: how numbers tell a mixed story. Recorded in March 2020

Froebel, Steiner and Montessori: A Conversation in Learning Between Friends

This film documents a conversation between three experts who share some of the commonalities and unique aspects of three educational approaches. Recorded in November 2019.

Barbara Isaacs Lecture at the V&A Museum of Childhood

Barbara Isaacs in conversation with staff of the V&A Museum of Childhood. Recorded in October 2019.

Janni Nicol Lecture at the V&A Museum of Childhood

Janni Nicol in conversation with staff of the V&A Museum of Childhood. Recorded in October 2019.

Tina Bruce Lecture at the V&A Museum of Childhood

Tina Bruce in conversation with staff of the V&A Museum of Childhood. Recorded in October 2019.

Froebel Trust Lecture 2019: John Carnochan

No Matter the Question the Answer is Relationships. The Froebel Trust Annual Lecture recorded in October 2019.

Froebel Trust Lecture 2018: Professor Paul Ramchandani

Right from the start: play, relationships and learning. The Froebel Trust Annual Lecture recorded in October 2018.

Young voices on Covid

Presentation of an action research project recording what young children have to say about the pandemic. This session was recorded as part of the Froebel Trust Conference in M...

Nature Play

Connecting young children and their adults in the great outdoors. This session was recorded as part of the Froebel Trust Conference in March 2021.

Musical Play

How songs, music and movement build relationships in early childhood. This session was recorded as part of the Froebel Trust Conference in March 2021.

Slow pedagogies in early childhood education

Slow Knowledge and the unhurried child. Making the case for slower pedagogies with time to wallow in play. This session was recorded as part of the Froebel Trust Conference i...

Froebelian Approaches in the Nursery Community

Working with families in early years settings. This session was recorded as part of the Froebel Trust Conference in March 2021.

Applications open for new PhD at Manchester Metropolitan University

An opportunity to investigate how Froebel’s Gifts support the development of young children’s understanding of space, shape and number.

Finding Froebel: Andrea McDonald

The latest in our series of profiles of educators, researchers and students - sharing what it is about a Froebelian approach to early childhood education that inspires them in...

Updated Froebelian Principles poster

Access our recently updated Froebelian principles poster. Available in two sizes for you to display in your school, classroom or setting.

Nursery World Awards 2021

Inspiring book exploring a Froebelian approach to storytelling wins a Nursery World Award.

Become a Froebel Trust trustee

Application deadline has now passed.

Froebel Trust Survey 2021

The survey has now closed. Thank you to all those who took part. Results will be published here soon.

Webinar: The urgency of slow

Reconsidering the relationship with time in early childhood education. A half day online webinar held on Saturday 20 November 2021. Recording now available to watch.

Froebel Trust Autumn Lecture 2021

Let the children play: A Froebel Trust lecture with guest speaker Professor Pasi Sahlberg. Held on Thursday 18 November 2021 at 7.30pm. Recording now available to watch.

The Nature Access Project

A new Froebel Trust funded project exploring young children and their families' experiences of playing, learning and being outdoors in nature. Get involved and take part in t...

Webinar: Observing young children with Dr Stella Louis

SOLD OUT! A special webinar to celebrate the release of a brand new Froebel Trust pamphlet, Observing young children by Dr Stella Louis.

Froebel Trust Lecture 2021: Professor Pasi Sahlberg

Let the children play - The Froebel Trust Annual Lecture recorded in November 2021.

Practice Support Grants awards announced for 2021

We're delighted to share news about the five projects which have been awarded a Froebel Trust Practice Support Grant this year.

The urgency of slow

A half day webinar which reconsiders the relationship with time in early childhood education - recorded in November 2021.

Professor Maurice Craft - an appreciation

Mark Neale, Chair of Trustees, marks the retirement of Professor Maurice Craft. Maurice Craft has been a trustee and committee member at the Froebel Trust for the last 10 year...

Children and nature

Celebrating the importance of connections and relationships between children and nature.

Scotswood Community Garden

Harriet Menter tells the story of Scotswood Community Garden in Newscastle-upon-Tyne and shares her top tips for setting up forest schools with early years groups.

New pamphlet: Observing young children

A new addition to the popular Froebel Trust free pamphlet series explores how educators can use observations to support children's development and learning. Download for free.

Creating a nursery school garden with RHS Wisley

Sam Southgate, horticulturalist at RHS Wisley, shares the story of how he created a community garden at Guildford Nursery School and Family Centre.

Literacy and communication. A response to the latest research.

Professor Tina Bruce responds to UCL's Institute of Education's new research on the use of phonics in schools.

Webinar: Froebelian women opening the door to change

On International Women’s Day Dr Jane Read and Jane Whinnett explore the work of two Froebelian women educators in the early 20th century. Recording now available.

An introduction to Froebel, children and nature

A new Froebel Trust publication by Helen Tovey looks at how educators, parents and carers can empower young children to play their part in protecting and nurturing nature.

Observing young children with Dr Stella Louis

Dr Stella Louis explores how educators can use observations to support children's development and learning. A Froebel Trust webinar recorded on 25 January 2022.

An introduction to the work of the Froebel Trust

2022 marked ten years of our work as a grant making charity championing a Froebelian approach to early childhood education. This 2 minute film was created for our anniversary ...

We're recruiting : Training Manager

A new opportunity to join the Froebel Trust team. Could you coordinate our learning programmes and help more early years educators access a Froebel Trust short course?

Spring Webinar: Children & Nature

Our Spring webinar is all about young children's relationships with nature - featuring guest speakers Konnie Huq, Dr Helge Wasmuth and Naomi Clarke.

Webinar: Nurturing self-regulation with Dr Lynn McNair and Carol Cerdan

A free webinar to celebrate the publication of a new Froebel Trust pamphlet which explores a Froebelian perspective on children’s self-regulation.

Three new trustees join the Froebel Trust

Dr Fufy Demissie, Dr Kate Hoskins and Paula Phillips join the Froebel Trust Council of Trustees.

New pamphlet: Nurturing self-regulation

New addition to the popular Froebel Trust free pamphlet series explores a Froebelian perspective on children’s self-regulation. Download for free.

International Webinar: Why does Froebel matter in the 21st century?

A free webinar hosted by the Froebel Trust (London) and Mercy College (New York). Eight educators from around the world discuss the relevance of the ideas of Friedrich Froebel...

Froebelian women opening the door to change

Dr Jane Read and Jane Whinnett explore the work of two Froebelian women educators in the early 20th century. A Froebel Trust webinar recorded on 8 March 2022

Nurturing self-regulation

Dr Lynn McNair and Carol Cerdan share their Froebelian perspective on children’s self-regulation: how to use reflection and freedom with guidance to create more harmonious and...

The Access to Nature Project

The Froebel Trust and Early Education worked together on this collaborative project to explore and understand young children's access to natural environments in the UK.

New guide for educators : The Access to Nature Project

A free to download guide for early years educators suggests ways to support young children's access to natural environments in the UK.

Implementing and Sustaining Froebel's Occupation of Woodwork

This project sought to develop a woodwork area for children aged 3-5 years old.

Implementing slow pedagogy through Froebelian principled practice

Through exploring Froebelian principles in practice, a team of educators developed their knowledge of slow pedagogy. The project developed training and collective collaboratio...

Rediscovering the benefits of clay

A project which supported educators to work together and develop the use of clay with young children in two nursery schools.

Promoting ecological understanding through engagement with gardening in the nursery and infant age group

Developing the Froebelian occupation of gardening to set up a sustainable gardening eco-schools project.

Connecting with nature after the COVID pandemic in a nursery garden and wider community

The team is aiming to focus on vulnerable children and families’ engagement with nature after COVID by building new opportunities for children and families to access the outdo...

Using Froebelian Principles to develop parents' confidence in supporting their child's learning

Camborne and Truro Nursery Schools have undertaken training with the Froebel Trust and through this Action Research grant enhanced practice and built stronger relationships w...

Inside-Out: A study of wordless sound-play as a pedagogy for early childhood artists and educators

Research exploring how wordless sound-play can be used by educators in early childhood education.

Capturing children’s innovations; the importance of play

This research investigated children’s ability to make tools to solve problems using a Froebelian framing to approach the problem under investigation

Nurture through nature: fostering early childhood students’ understanding of outdoor learning spaces

This study investigated Early Years and Childhood Studies students’ developing understanding of outdoor learning spaces as they embarked on their unique learning journeys as p...

Nature play, play naturally: Supporting Outdoor and Nature-Based Play in Preschool

The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of preschool teachers’ beliefs about young children’s outdoor play and play in natural environments and to describe indi...

Kitchen (kinder) Garden: Improving Early Childhood teaching and learning process and environment

A project based at The University of West Indies creating a Froebelian kitchen garden with a sustainable water supply at the Hope Valley Experimental School in Kingston, Jamai...

Spirituality in early childhood pedagogy: A Froebelian approach in Chinese and English contexts

How does spirituality support young children’s holistic learning and wellbeing? This research project explores the importance of spirituality in early childhood education.

Diversity in Unity: Developing an anti-racist framework within Froebelian pedagogy

A research project which considered whether Froebelian environments and practices might offer a unique example and provide affordances for anti-racist care and education, led ...

Exploring Froebelian principles as a vehicle for curriculum reform

How might Froebelian principles facilitate the enactment of the new early years curriculum guidance for Wales?

The Froebelian approach and the philosophy of Sozo Kurahashi: The Japanese ECEC pioneer

The aim of this research was to examine and demonstrate the relevance of Kurahashi's philosophy to that of Friedrich Froebel and the modern Froebelian approach

Symbolic representation – how do we support the development of ‘writing’ through outdoor play?

With a Froebel Trust Action Research Grant, Nursery School Headteacher Alison Hawkins set out to research children’s mark-making

Developing community connections through cookery

With this Action Research Grant Helen Ackerman aims to renew their school's community links after the COVID pandemic and develop the practice of cooking with young children.

Froebel meets Ofsted

Dr Susana Castro-Kemp reflects on the initial findings of her Froebel Trust funded research project. An article first published in Nursery World.

The role of block play in developing children's vocabulary through symbolic play

A collaborative research project exploring the role of block play in developing children's vocabulary.

A Sense of Belonging - recognising the importance of being truly inclusive

A Scottish nursery school leader explores, develops and deepens understanding of the key principles of promoting practice which is fair, inclusive and equitable.

Short Course Resources

Information and resources which can be downloaded and shared by Froebel Trust Travelling Tutors. This page and its content are password protected and not publicly available.

Children and nature

Our Spring webinar - featuring guest speakers Konnie Huq, Dr Helge Wasmuth and Naomi Clarke. A Froebel Trust webinar recorded on 21 April 2022.

Froebel Trust policy statement for photography and film

This policy statement applies to all staff, volunteers and other adults associated with our work at the Froebel Trust; anyone who is involved in taking photographs or film for...

Why does Froebel matter in the 21st century?

Eight educators from around the world discuss the relevance of the ideas of Friedrich Froebel for today's Early Childhood Education. A Froebel Trust and Mercy College webinar ...

Our 2022 anniversary film

Watch our short film all about how we support early years educators and young children.

Play and Inclusion

Dr Sharon Colilles considers how play allows young children to develop, learn and explore socially constructed ideas about their ethnic identity.

London

Froebel Trust Writing Workshop

A 3 day writing workshop in London this summer. Application deadline was Friday 1 July 2022.

Element One

Introduction to the Principles and Practices of the Froebelian approach to Early Childhood Education

Element Two

The Gifts (and modern wooden blocks) and the Occupations (workshop experiences)

Element Three

The importance of engaging with nature and outdoor learning

Element Four

Play and the symbolic life of the child, (representation and the expressive arts)

Element Five

Lullabies and family songs, finger plays, action songs, movement games - firm foundations for later literacy

Element Six

Equality, inclusion, diversity and connectedness

Taking time back

Watch a new Froebel Trust short film all about slowing down our approach to early childhood education today.

Slow pedagogy

A short film all about slowing down our approach to early childhood education today. Produced in July 2022.

Join our team of Travelling Tutors

Due to the popularity of our Froebel Trust Short Courses, we're recruiting trainees to join our team of highly experienced trainers led by Dr Stella Louis. Apply by 31 August...

Froebelian research judged as world-leading

The latest REF results rate Froebel Trust funded research highly, recognising Froebelian research projects as 'World-Leading' and 'Internationally Excellent'

Research Highlights

A Froebel Trust series created to support educators in their work with babies and young children. Free to download. Each Research Highlight summarises recent early childhood ...

New series: Research Highlights

Just published. A brand new Froebel Trust series which makes practical links between the latest research and a Froebelian approach to early education today. Free to download.

One year on

One year on from the start of a major £1 million investment in Froebelian education in the UK, we report on what's been achieved so far - and what's next?

Froebel Trust Autumn Lecture 2022

A Froebel Trust lecture with guest speakers Anthony & Kel Matsena. Thursday 10 November 2022 at 7pm. Online. Book your free ticket now.

Webinar: Re-engaging with nature with Helen d'Ascoli and Debby Hunter

A free webinar to celebrate the publication of a new Froebel Trust pamphlet which explores young children's engagement with nature.

New pamphlet: Re-engaging with nature

New addition to the popular Froebel Trust free pamphlet series explores the importance of children's connections to nature. Download for free.

Connecting with wild nature spaces

Vicki Paterson tells the story of a re-wilding project at Balgreen Nursery School.

Forest School and Froebel: Learning from the past

Hayley Bullard explores the connections between Forest Schools and a Froebelian approach to early education.

A new sense of self in our community

Leona Stewart describes how connecting with nature supports her work with young children and communities.

Re-engaging with nature

Helen d'Ascoli and Debby Hunter explore ways to support and nurture young children's connections with and understanding of the natural world. A Froebel Trust webinar recorded ...

Sing and move, love and belong

Leading up to the 2022 Froebel Trust autumn lecture all about the power of creativity, a new article by Rachna Joshi reflects on the importance of songs, music and dance in Fr...

Children and nature - a presentation by Felicity Thomas, Froebel Trust Travelling Tutor

An online event hosted by Canterbury Christ Church University in November 2022. This 40minute webinar considers ways to support "...young children learning about the intercon...

Observing nature, observing children

Inspired by a visit to the Froebel Archive, Ellen Hobday considers the connections between spending time in nature and observing young children.

Supporting migrant and refugee children in Early Childhood Education

An international project which aimed to determine the difficulties that young children face after crossing borders in relation to their identity, role and relationships - and ...

Sewing the thread back into the community

A Scottish nursery school received a Froebel Trust grant to run a series of community workshops and develop the Froebelian Occupation of sewing.

Developing outdoor opportunities as part of a continuous provision in P1 and P2

Maddiston Primary School in Scotland received Froebel Trust funding to develop their whole school approach to outdoor play.

Froebelian leadership course

Apply for a free place on this new online course starting in January 2023.

Considered Canonbie connections

This nursery school was awarded a Froebel Trust grant to create family workshops all about songs, rhymes and Froebel's finger plays. 

Forest School - Froebel and Nature

Oliver Thomas Nursery School and Children's Centre were awarded a Froebel Trust grant to develop nature based experiences for children and the local community at their inner L...

Froebel Trust Lecture 2022: Anthony and Kel Matsena

Telling stories about radical change and belonging - The Froebel Trust Annual Lecture recorded in November 2022

Equality, equity, diversity and inclusion

Froebel believed that every person’s uniqueness made an important contribution and was an equally valuable part of the whole of humankind. He believed that we are all connecte...

Froebel Trust Charter for Inclusive Practice

This charter aims to explain and illustrate our commitment to diversity, inclusion and equality, making connections to Froebelian philosophy and principles.

Information for grant holders

Essential information and guidance for managing your grant. Your funded project is important to us. We want to learn from your project and make sure that others can learn from...

Reporting guidance for grant holders

We ask you to send us a final report at the end of your project so that we can share learning with others and let more people know about the difference your project has made.

Funding for CPD & training

We offer bursaries and subsidised training opportunities for anyone interested in developing their understanding of a Froebelian approach to early childhood education.

Play: Nature's educational tool?

Alison Hawkins, a headteacher at an inner city kindergarten in Edinburgh, Scotland makes the case for more play in primary schools.

Froebel Trust Online Conference 2023

A free online conference for everyone who teaches and supports babies and young children.

Webinar: Sewing with young children

Join us for a free online event all about inspiring young children to learn to sew - with special guest speaker Esme Young

Meet the author: Professor Alison Clark

A special online event to celebrate the publication of Professor Alison Clark's new book 'Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child'

New pamphlet: Sewing with young children

A brand new Froebel Trust pamphlet introduces sewing with young children. Download for free.

Does Ofsted value play and creativity in early education?

Leading up to this year's Froebel Trust conference, Susana Castro-Kemp introduces her recent research looking at how Ofsted defines high-quality early years provision.

Sewing with young children

This webinar marked the publication of a new Froebel Trust pamphlet - packed with practical advice about sewing with young children. It features special guest, Esme Young and ...

Meet the author: Professor Alison Clark

A recording of an online event to celebrate the publication of Professor Alison Clark's book 'Slow Knowledge and the Unhurried Child'. Recorded on 9 February 2023.

Finding Froebel

Kate Smith, Bridget Steenkamp, Andrea Yankah and Donna Green share their experiences of developing their approach to early childhood education. Following our 2023 conference...

Play for all children

Eve Whistler is a nursery teacher who works in a primary school in England. In this article she reflects on her experiences of supporting young children's play. She challenges...

Froebel Trust Conference 2023: Session 1

This year's conference explored how a Froebelian approach is crucial to improving babies' and young children's experiences in early education. First session features presentat...

Froebel Trust Conference 2023: Session 2

This year's conference explores how a Froebelian approach is crucial to improving babies' and young children's experiences in early education. Second session features presenta...

New tutors join the Froebel Trust team

We're delighted to welcome eight new Froebelian tutors to our highly respected team of Travelling Tutors - offering inspiring courses to educators working with babies and youn...

Learning more than one language

An article by Dr Kyara Rojas-Bustos, Honorary Fellow, University of Roehampton on how a Froebelian approach can nurture linguistic diversity in early years settings and suppor...

Froebel & the United States Kindergarten

Kaitlyn Kallimanis asks what educators and policy-makers in the United States might do to bring the kindergarten back to its Froebelian roots.

Online Course

Our online courses are delivered via live interactive sessions led by our experienced tutors. These courses are for anyone working with young children who wants to develop the...

Coaching - the Froebelian way

Nursery school headteacher, Sally Cave considers how a Froebelian approach to coaching can support educators working in early childhood education and care today.

A Froebelian inspired nature pedagogy in urban babyrooms

A research project investigating the potential of a Froebelian inspired pedagogy ‘in, with and for nature’ in urban babyrooms.

Growing connections

Putting a garden at the heart of the local community. A Froebel Trust funded project at Spateston Early Learning and Childcare Centre in Renfrewshire, Scotland.

How does a Froebelian approach support relationships in a nursery community?

Linden Tree Nursery Schools in London carried out research on how a Froebelian approach can have an impact on the relationship between parents, teachers, children and the loca...

Making connections: Froebel’s principles and practices in Wales

This project examines the three 'enablers' introduced by the Welsh Government in the new Curriculum for Wales 2022 (CfW) - and makes connections to Froebelian principles and p...

The potential of Froebelian philosophy to support and engage low-income families in the Early Years

A research project looking at the significance and relevance of play in the daily lives of low-income families.

Nurturing a fledgling community of Froebelian practice in South Africa

This research project explored how the Froebelian approach can be used practically in implementing the South African government’s early childhood curriculum.

Illustrating adventurous play for young children’s self report

This research project's aims were to "develop and validate a new pictorial self-report measure of adventurous play for use with 3- to 7-year-olds".

Empowering children as learners and inquirers

A study gathering evidence about how Froebelian principles may guide and support the improvement of young children’s question-asking abilities.

Exploring Froebelian Principles in Early Years Leadership

This research project aimed to explore how Early Years leadership might look through a Froebelian lens.

Our podcast

If you've always wanted to know more about a Froebelian approach to early education - and how you might set out to develop practice in your school or setting - then the Froebe...

A Froebelian approach to planning with young children

An article from Shauna McIntosh about her experience of using a Froebelian approach to co-construct the curriculum with young children at Cameron House Nursery School - an ear...

The International Froebel Society Conference 2023

Dr Sacha Powell, CEO of the Froebel Trust, reports from the 2023 International Froebel Society Conference held at Maynooth University, Ireland

Froebelian practice in the primary school

As many young children across the UK prepare for transition from nursery to school, educator Rachel Griffiths makes the case for more primary school teachers to incorporate Fr...

Cardiff

Froebel Trust Autumn Lecture 2023

A recording of this year's lecture with Professor Tina Bruce CBE is now available to watch.

Professional development

Communication

Children's development and learning

Space, place and materials

Family and community

Wellbeing

Nursery World Awards 2023

Froebel Trust colleagues recognised in the Nursery World Awards 2023 shortlist

Let's Cook!

A nursery school project developing community connections through cooking.

Building stronger relationships with parents and carers

The story of a project which brought families and young children together in nursery schools in Cornwall.

Slow pedagogy

Making time for children's learning and development in early years settings in Falkirk.

Tŷ Froebel

Putting Froebel's principles into practice in Wales.

Froebelian Futures

A major project based in Scotland which ran from 2021 to 2024 developing Froebelian practice, theory and networks in early childhood education.

Young Voices on Covid-19

Listening to, capturing and understanding the experiences of young children during the pandemic.

Mini Muddy Fingers

A community project bringing families together to learn and play outside, connecting with nature.

Block play

The story of a primary school using block play to support young children's language development.

Supporting transition from nursery to primary school

An innovative research project using digital stories to support young autistic children's transition from nursery to primary school.

Let's Play!

A creative theatre project supporting parents and carers to play with their babies and young children.

Social justice, equity and inclusion

Pedagogy and curriculum

Children's perspectives

Case studies

Take a look at our collection of case studies - examples of the diverse range of early childhood projects we fund in the UK and worldwide.

Video

A children's garden in Jamaica

The story of how children and educators created a kitchen garden at a school in Kingston, Jamaica.

Asking questions

A research project in Greece looking at how early childhood educators can develop young children’s question-asking skills.

Photo story

Audio

Supporting Froebelian practice in South Africa

A research project exploring how a Froebelian approach can be used to support the South African government’s early childhood curriculum.

Young refugee children’s play

A project which observed and documented the experiences of young refugees in Lebanon.

Spirituality and holistic learning

Researchers in China and England are working together to consider how spirituality can support young children’s holistic learning and wellbeing.

Schemas, outdoor play and Froebel

Pavla Boulton and Dr Amanda Thomas (University of South Wales) connect with Froebel to extend their understandings of young children's schemas and outdoor play in early childh...

Nursery World Awards 2023: Congratulations to Dr Stella Louis

Dr Stella Louis, Lead Tutor of the Froebel Trust Short Courses, has been named 'Trainer of the Year' at the Nursery World Awards 2023. She was also honoured with the Nursery W...

Froebel Trust Lecture 2023: Professor Tina Bruce

Play and creativity - The Froebel Trust Annual Lecture 2023 recorded in Oct. 2023

Cooking with young children

A short film all about introducing cooking in early years settings and nursery schools. Produced in September 2023.

Tŷ Froebel (Froebel House)

This short Froebel Trust film explores how a Froebelian approach connects with the new curriculum for Wales. Produced in October 2023.

New book on Froebel published by Bloomsbury

Researchers, authors, educators and experts from around the world explore Froebel's life and legacy.

Family Time in Nature

A nursery school project bringing families together in East London.

2023: A year of reflection and change

A particular focus at the Froebel Trust this year has been to work towards greater equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in all that we do - including our ways of working with...

Froebelian Networks - Project Fund

Funding of up to £1,000 for grassroots organisations and networks which support and connect Froebelian educators working with babies and young children.

Proposals invited - Froebel Trust Courses Project

Are you a consultant who could help us to streamline our courses administration, find opportunities to extend our training into new regions and identify ways to support our al...

Where are the men in early childhood education?

An article by Pete Moorhouse asks what would Froebel have made of the current gender imbalance of educators working in early years settings and nursery schools? Pete Moorhous...

Webinar: Nurture through nature

A free webinar with Dr Alison Moore and Marcella Towler - sharing new research about how Early Childhood students can develop their understandings of outdoor learning spaces.

Family time in nature

A short Froebel Trust film about a nursery school project bringing families together in an inner city garden. Produced in December 2023.

Outdoor learning with young children

An early years setting in Wales bringing a Froebelian approach to their work with young children

Webinar: Cooking with young children

SOLD OUT A free online event all about supporting young children to cook. This Froebel Trust webinar celebrates the release of a new guide for educators working in early yea...

Nurture through Nature

This Froebel Trust webinar shared the findings of Dr Alison Moore and Marcella Towler's research project which fostered early childhood students’ understanding of outdoor lear...

Becoming a Froebelian setting

How the team at an early years setting has adopted a Froebelian approach and the difference it's made to their staff, children and families.

Outdoor learning with young children

A short Froebel Trust film about how outdoor learning can make a difference to young children and support early years settings' connections with their local community. Produce...

Short Course at Cosy HQ

A two day course for teachers and educators in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire & Warwickshire Friday 12 July & Saturday 13 July 2024

Dancing with young children

Rachna Joshi, a Froebel Travelling Tutor, reflects on how young children learn and experiment through dance - and introduces a new touring dance performance for children and t...

Webinar: Thinking about babies

SOLD OUT A free online event for everyone interested in the care of babies in early years settings today - with Dr Caroline Guard and Dr Sacha Powell.

Sewing, threading and weaving

Sewing, threading and weaving are 'slow' Occupations offering time and focus. They support children to make choices, plan and develop fine motor movements.

Cooking

Cooking supports all areas of the curriculum from reading recipes, to measuring ingredients and learning about changes of state.

Clay

Playing and 3D modelling with clay supports all areas of young children development and learning.

Sticks and peas

Sticks and peas allow children to explore line, shape and space, creating their own unique constructions.

Paper folding

Paper folding allows children to explore surface and area.

Froebel's Occupations

Activities and experiences which enable children to develop their curiosity, creativity and problem-solving skills.

Becoming a Froebelian setting

A short Froebel Trust film about how the team at an early years setting has adopted a Froebelian approach and the difference it's made to their staff, children and families. P...

Cooking - with Dr Lucy Parker and Helen Ackerman

This webinar marked the publication of a new Froebel Trust pamphlet - packed with practical advice about cooking with young children. Recorded on 21 March 2024.

Woodwork

Creating constructions with wood and using tools builds on children's knowledge and encompasses all areas of learning.

The Occupations in an early years setting

An article by Rachna Joshi explores how Froebel's Occupations can support every child's learning. A case study from Guildford Nursery School & Family Centre.

Growing, cooking and eating

An article by Racha Joshi, observing how the experience of growing produce and cooking can support every child's learning. A case study from Guildford Nursery School & Family ...

Developing the Occupation of cooking

An article by Janaki Wood reflects on the development of Froebel's Occupation of cooking at an early years setting. A case study from Guildford Nursery School & Family Centre.

Short Course - special offer for Element One

A special Froebel Trust two day course for educators based in early years settings and schools in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire and Warwickshire. 12 & 13 July 202...

Burton-on-Trent

Thinking about babies - with Dr Caroline Guard

This webinar marked the launch of new guidance, 'Thinking about babies' - created for early years managers and leaders. Recorded on 29 April 2024.

Webinar: Let's talk about race in the early years

SOLD OUT A free online event to mark the publication of a new book by Dr Stella Louis and Hannah Betteridge

Policy brief

The greatest expansion in England's early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector is underway. More skilled educators are urgently needed to ensure young children's develop...

Points and paper pricking

Creating patterns by making points and using a pin or tool to prick through paper.

Tiles and parquetry

Children can arrange flat wooden tiles to show what they know about pattern and symmetry - or things they see in their everyday lives.

Sticks, slats and lines

Sets of fine sticks which allow children to explore the possibilities of lines.

Let's talk about race in the early years - with Dr Stella Louis and Hannah Betteridge

This webinar celebrated the publication of Dr Stella Louis (Lead Tutor of the Froebel Trust Short Courses) and Hannah Betteridge's new book, 'Let's Talk About Race in the Earl...

Froebel Trust Autumn Lecture 2025

This year's Froebel Trust lecture explored how we can nurture children’s creativity and autonomous learning with practice examples from New York. It took place on Tuesday 7 Oc...

Apply to become a Froebel Travelling Tutor - CLOSED

WE ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Join our highly respected team of experienced Froebelian tutors. Apply by 4pm on 9th September 2024 to join this year's tutor training...

A call to rewild Froebel’s Kindergarten

An article by Clair James about the role of Froebelian educators in early childhood education systems today

Guildford Nursery School and Family Centre

A team of highly skilled educators working to bring research and Froebelian practice closer together.

Resistance stories: Telling and sharing stories about children's right to play

A research project seeking to understand the potential of sharing stories about children's right to play.

Dialogising Froebelian philosophy in action: Translating Early Childhood Education approaches across time and space

This research project explores Froebel’s legacy in relation to the many other philosophies now influencing Early Childhood Education (ECE) globally.

The impact of involving grandfriends in children’s lives within a Froebelian-inspired intergenerational nursery

A research project listening to and collating the views of children about their sense of identity and belonging in an intergenerational setting. Below you can find a video o...

Using wearable technology to explore freedom with guidance in outdoor nursery environments

A research project aiming to develop new professional learning knowledge about how educators can offer freedom with guidance to young children in outdoor environments.

Partnering with parents to include children with special educational needs in woodwork

A project developing an approach for positively engaging parents of children with special educational needs in the Froebelian Occupation of woodwork.

Establishing a Froebelian Setting across Nursery to Primary 2

A project embedding Froebelian principles in mixed age play experiences and opportunities at a primary school in Scotland.

Weaving Together

A joint project bringing together two Scottish early years settings to develop weaving as a valued Froebelian Occupation in their settings.

Family Engagement

A project developing parents' understanding about the importance of young children's play at an early years setting in Cardiff.

Block play indoors and outdoors

An action research project focussing on the flow of children's experiences using block play as a 'tool' for exploration.

Listening to babies

How can we effectively capture and use the baby’s voice within planning, provision and care?

A new network for educators in Wales

The launch of a new community of educators working together to share and develop their Froebelian knowledge and experience of working with babies and young children.

2024 Froebel Trust grants awarded

Announcing the projects, research teams and educators awarded a 2024 Froebel Trust grant.

Webinar: Freedom with Guidance with Dr Helge Wasmuth

Join the Froebel Trust and Dr. Helge Wasmuth for a free webinar about Froebel’s authentic thoughts on 'Freedom with Guidance'.

SOLD OUT Conference: Inspiring Early Learning

EXTRA TICKETS NOW SOLD OUT. A day of practical workshops and informative talks for everyone who works with young children. Sheffield. Saturday 29 March 2025.

Sheffield

Froebel Trust Lecture 2024: Prof. Alison Clark & Donna Green

The Froebel Trust Lecture 2024 considers "slow, deep, unhurried learning" for children in early years settings and schools today. Recorded in Nov 2024.

Time for Play, Space to Learn

The story of Poppies Pre-School - an inspiring Froebelian early years setting which cares for babies and young children up to the age of 5. A setting where uninterrupted play ...

Time for Play, Space to Learn

The story of Poppies Pre-School - an inspiring Froebelian early years setting which cares for babies and young children up to the age of 5. A setting where uninterrupted play ...

Introducing Froebel's Occupations

A short Froebel Trust film introducing Froebel's Occupations - activities and experiences which enable children to develop their curiosity, creativity and problem-solving skil...

Making Connections: Understanding Froebel's Gifts and Occupations

This Froebel Trust short film explores how Froebel's Gifts and Occupations can support young children's play and learning today.

Freedom with Guidance with Dr Helge Wasmuth & Jane Whinnett

In this Froebel Trust chaired by Jane Whinnett MBE, Dr Helge Wasmuth explores 'Freeom with Guidance', a key component of Froebelian pedagogy.

Froebelian Pasts, Present and Futures

Conference Registration and Froebel Trust Student Bursary Application Form

Erfurt University, Germany

City Shapes

This project adopts a Froebelian approach to address identified research gaps in relation to preschool children’s 3D shape awareness.

Join the Froebel Trust Alumni Network

The Froebel Trust Alumni Network is for anyone who has completed a course that is endorsed by the Froebel Trust. Membership will grant you access to a range of free benefits ...

Find out about a Froebelian approach at Nursery World’s Big Day Out

Next month, early years professionals and all those working with young children are invited to join Nursery World as they put on the UK’s largest early years festival, Big Day...

Play coordinates all learning with Dr Stella Louis

Dr Stella Louis presented her keynote speech, 'Play Coordinates All Learning', at the Froebel Trust 2025 Conference, Inspiring Early Learning. Recorded on 29th March 2025.

Froebel Trust Conference 2025, Inspiring Early Learning

Watch highlights from the Froebel Trust 2025 Conference, Inspiring Early Learning, which took place in Sheffield on 29th March.

Webinar: Unity in diversity with Prof. Tina Bruce, Dr Stella Louis and Prof. Chris Pascal

SOLD OUT. A webinar bringing together three influential women whose work about early childhood continues to inspire and inform practice in early years settings and schools tod...

Welcome to our newly endorsed Froebel Travelling Tutors

We are delighted to welcome twelve new recruits to our team of Travelling Tutors.

Element 1 Course in Cardiff - apply now

We invite applications for the Froebel Trust's Element 1 Course: Introduction to the Principles and Practice of the Froebelian Approach to Early Childhood Education Applicati...

Being & Belonging Conference

SOLD OUT Saturday 8 November 2025 John McIntyre Conference Centre, Edinburgh "Gifts for our Future 14: Being and Belonging" Edinburgh Froebel Network & The Froebel Trust

John McIntyre Conference Centre, Edinburgh

Unity in Diversity with Prof. Tina Bruce, Dr Stella Louis & Prof. Chris Pascal

This Froebel Trust webinar brought together three influential women whose work about early childhood continues to inspire and inform practice in early years settings and schoo...

Scholarship Opportunity - Froebel Trust Online Course

Do you work with young children in Rutland or nearby? Would you like to take part in our online course? This scholarship could be yours!

Meet our new Chair of Trustees

We caught up with our newly appointed Chair of Trustees, Mark Devlin on his new role and why he is passionate about joining the Froebel Trust team.

Episode 1: What does it take to become a Froebelian early years setting?

Episode 2: Inside the Froebel based early years setting

Episode 3: Recognising children's individuality in early years settings

Episode 4: Block play for early learning

Episode 5: Taking play and learning outdoors in the early years

Episode 6: Observation and assessment in early childhood education

Episode 7: Relationships and wellbeing in early years settings

Episode 8: Where are the men in early years education?

Episode 9: Can a Froebelian approach work in any kind of school or early years setting?

Episode 10: Special edition

Episode 11: Time to focus on babies in early years settings

Episode 12: Developing language and literacy in the early years

Episode 13: In conversation with Professor Tine Bruce

Episode 14: Supporting children with additional needs in early years settings

Episode 15: Empowering early years leaders

Episode 16: Play and early learning environments

Episode 17: A Froebelian path in bewildering times

Episode 18: Connecting with Parents, Families and Communities

We are recruiting!

We are looking to fill three fixed-term positions: Research Assistant - Nature Engagement Research Assistant - Birth to Three Senior Research Assistant - Courses Evaluation...

Meet our new Trustee

We’re delighted to welcome Sean Alleyne to the Froebel Trust’s Board of Trustees. Read on to find out more about him.

Froebel Trust Autumn Lecture 2025: Block by Block: Building resilience, confidence and a sense of responsibility in young children

This year's Froebel Trust lecture explored how we can nurture children’s creativity and autonomous learning with practice examples from New York. It took place on Tuesday 7 Oc...

Singing with Young Children Webinar

Join us for a free webinar to mark the launch of our latest pamphlet Singing with Young Children, authored by Paula Lester.

Episode 19: Froebelian education: past, present and future

The Power of Froebel with Lynn J. McNair, Luke J. Addison and contributing authors

This webinar celebrates the launch of the book, The Power of Froebel. Editors Lynn J. McNair and Luke J. Addison, alongside contributing authors, come together to share a glim...

Webinar: The Power of Froebel with Lynn McNair and Luke Addison

Join us for a celebration of the book The Power of Froebel with co-authors Lynn McNair and Luke Addison together with contributing authors, as they share their insights and ex...

Becoming who we are: Ripple effects through relationships and time with Rachna Joshi

Rachna Joshi presented Becoming who we are: Ripple effects through relationships and time at Gifts for Our Future 14: Being and Belonging Conference by the Edinburgh Froebel N...

Seeing, Unfolding and Flourishing: A Froebelian Approach to Inclusion and Belonging with Catriona Gill

A powerful exploration of inclusion and belonging through a Froebelian lens, focusing on seeing each child for who they truly are. Catriona Gill presented Seeing, Unfolding an...

Singing with Young Children with Paula Lester & Rachna Joshi

In this webinar we are joined by Froebel Trust Travelling Tutors, Paula Lester and Rachna Joshi as they explore our latest pamphlet, Singing with Young Children, authored by P...

New Grants for 2026: Professional Inquiry for Practice Transformation

APPLICATIONS NOW CLOSED. Grant to enable Froebel-trained educators in the UK to develop their practice through professional inquiry.

Episode 20: Maths in the early years

Help shape our new strategy

The Froebel Trust provides grants, training and resources for early childhood education and care. To ensure the Trust meets the needs of the sector in its next strategic perio...

Webinar: Being with Babies Outdoors

Join us for a discussion on the recently completed Froebel Trust funded project 'A Froebelian inspired nature pedagogy in urban babyrooms'. Researchers Dr Nicola Kemp, Dr Jo J...

Froebel Trust CEO awarded an Honorary Doctorate

We’re delighted to announce Froebel Trust Chief Executive Officer, Dr Sacha Powell has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Arts (Education) degree by the University of Roehampt...

Online Conference: Involving, Informing and Inspiring

Join us for a celebration of Froebel Trust funded research and practice development projects as we explore the findings and practices from Froebelian researchers and educators...

Take a guided tour of Guildford Nursery School

Come and see Froebel’s principles in action! Guildford Nursery School invites you to tour their nursery and experience their Froebel-inspired practice first-hand.

Guildford

Being with Babies Outdoors with Dr Nicola Kemp, Dr Jo Josephidou and Polly Bolshaw

In this webinar, researchers Dr Nicola Kemp, Dr Jo Josephidou and Polly Bolshaw discuss their recently completed Froebel Trust funded project 'A Froebelian inspired nature ped...

Froebel course opportunities at The University of Edinburgh

Applications are now open to study a Froebel Trust endorsed course at The University of Edinburgh in 2026. Hear from course graduates in the videos below about the difference...

Autonomous Learning for Life

St Andrew’s Primary School in Newport, Wales, has adopted a Froebelian approach to co-constructing the curriculum in the Nursery, Reception and Year 1. See how educators use F...

Webinar: Being and Becoming a Froebelian Community of Evidenced Practice

To celebrate the launch of the book, Being and Becoming a Froebelian Community of Evidenced Practice, join us for a webinar with some of the book's authors.

Being us: Learning and living together through a slow pedagogical lens

This project aims to explore time as a pedagogical and ethical resource for children, educators and learning communities.

Slow pedagogy