Ceredigion Childcare and Play Conference 2025 Celebrates Sector Excellence and Innovation
The Childcare Unit at Ceredigion County Council hosted a vibrant and inspiring Childcare and Play Conference 2025 at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Lampeter on Saturday, 27 September 2025. Funded by the Welsh Government’s Children and Communities – Training and Support Grant, the event brought together childcare professionals from across the county for a day of learning, reflection, and collaboration.
The conference featured a dynamic programme of keynote speakers and interactive workshops, designed to support and empower those working in early years settings. Attendees included registered childminders, day nurseries, and Cylchoedd Meithrin, all of whom benefited from expert insights and practical guidance.
International early years consultant Kym Scott delivered a compelling keynote on attachment, well-being, belonging, and self-regulation in the early years. Her workshop on supporting positive behaviour through relational approaches sparked thoughtful discussion and reflection among participants.
Lianne Savage from Gogerddan Childcare led a hands-on session on developing outdoor environments for play, showcasing creative and cost-effective ideas to enrich outdoor spaces of all sizes. Her workshop highlighted the value of play in natural settings and offered practical tips for making the most of available resources.
Arwyn Williams from Business Wales presented on developing your business plan, outlining the free support available to childcare businesses of all sizes. His session provided valuable tools for sustainability and growth in the sector.
The day concluded with an inspiring keynote from Alison Rees-Edwards, Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Education and Humanities, UWTSD, who explored the lifelong benefits of bilingualism and multilingualism, beginning in early childhood.
The conference was a welcome opportunity for busy childcare professionals to come together, share best practice, and strengthen their networks. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the relevance of the content and the chance to reflect and learn alongside peers.
Councillor Wyn Thomas, Ceredigion Cabinet Member for Schools, Lifelong Learning and Skills, said: “The Childcare and Play sector provide vital services to families in Ceredigion, enabling parents to access work and training. We’re very grateful to all those who attended and contributed to this event, helping to strengthen and develop the sector.”
Carys Davies, Strategic Childcare Manager, added: “This event was shaped by the needs and requests of our providers, offering in-person learning that reflects the realities of a modern and evolving sector. In Ceredigion, we’re fortunate to have a passionate and committed workforce who place children and families at the heart of everything they do, something that was clear throughout the day.”
Councillor Ann Bowen-Morgan, Chair of the Council said: “The conference was a worthwhile experience for all the workforce who attended. They benefitted greatly from the strategies offered by the speakers and especially the opportunity to share experiences in the workshops.”
For information about Providing a Childcare and/or Play Service visit: Providing a Childcare and/or Play - Ceredigion County Council