London Institute of Early Years

The London Institute of Early Years (LIEY) exists to transform proven Early Years practice into wider change. We bring together leadership, practice-based research and adaptive implementation to help organisations create the conditions in which children, families and educators can flourish.

We are more than a place to learn. We are a think-and-do tank, connecting leaders, educators, researchers and policymakers to ask better questions, generate evidence and turn knowledge into action across the Early Years sector.

Our pioneering work is grounded in LEYF’s proven social enterprise model that continuously enlightens, enriches and empowers people, integrating the child, the teacher, the educator and the parent at the heart of what we do. Our research knowledge is inspired by real-world learning and an understanding that children’s development is shaped not just by policy and teaching, but by their whole experience of being part of an educational community where every element plays its part.

We call it Fairness by Design, where social justice is created through the intentional design of organisations, relationships and environments that enable every child to experience belonging, dignity and opportunity.

Our work

Whether you are a leader, educator, Early Years professional, nursery, school, social enterprise, researcher, policymaker or organisation seeking to improve outcomes for children, the London Institute of Early Years offers opportunities to learn, connect, research and grow.

1) Leadership – Learning that lives beyond the classroom

We develop Early Years leaders who create the conditions for lasting change.

Our programmes go beyond qualifications and compliance. They build the confidence, capability and critical thinking needed to lead with purpose, helping leaders understand not only what to do, but why it matters and how to create change that lasts.

Learning at the Institute does not end when a programme finishes. It becomes part of how you think, how you lead and how you shape better outcomes for children, families and communities.

When you learn with us, you also become part of the London Institute of Early Years community, with opportunities to connect through research, events, leadership networks and the Early Years Social Enterprise Collective. Together, we learn from one another, challenge, collaborate and strengthen the voice of Early Years.

2) Practice-based research

We turn everyday Early Years practice into evidence that challenges thinking, strengthens practice and improves children’s lives.

Our research begins with the questions that emerge from real Early Years settings. We believe the best evidence is created when research and practice work together. Educators are not passive recipients of academic knowledge. They are co-researchers, contributors and innovators whose insights deepen understanding and drive improvement across the sector.

Research at the Institute is not something done to educators. It is something created with them, building confidence, curiosity and capability to test ideas, learn from experience and share what works.

3) The LEYF Framework

We help organisations turn purpose into lasting impact.

The LEYF Framework translates over a century of learning into a practical approach for organisations seeking to combine social purpose, educational excellence and long-term sustainability. Through Adaptive Implementation, it helps organisations build on proven principles while responding to the needs of their own communities.

It is not about copying the LEYF model. It is about understanding the principles that underpin successful Early Years practice, organisational success and social justice, then applying the Framework in ways that reflect the unique context, strengths and ambitions of each organisation and community.

What makes us different

We don’t just share knowledge. We turn it into action.

The London Institute of Early Years brings together leadership, practice-based research and the LEYF Framework to help people create lasting change for children and families. We make evidence practical, challenge conventional thinking and build the capability to lead with confidence and purpose.

Grounded in LEYF’s proven social enterprise model and our theory of Fairness by Design, we believe research and practice belong together, educators are powerful agents of change, parents are partners, and better systems create better childhoods.