About Me - James Boddey

My career in early years education started over 20 years ago as a Nursery Nurse. I did my level 2 and level 3 apprenticeship and became Nursery Manager.

I then spent some time working at various schools and Early Years settings gaining multiple perspectives and lots of experience.

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I completed my Foundation Degree and Early Years Teacher Status at the University of Worcester. I met some fantastic academics, my knowledge expanded, and I developed a totally new approach to Early Years focused on a Person Centred / Humanistic Approach. Using the approaches developed by Carl Rogers and Maslow and later the Ubuntu Philosophy I created an approach that put the children at the centre of our ethos and curriculum.

Time at Busy Bodies

In 2018 I purchased Busy Bodies Child Care Centre in Ludlow. I quickly created a new philosophy, curriculum and ethos that everyone got behind. The environment changed and we saw the environment as an important teacher and resource for us.
We put children at the centre of the setting and the planning, observation and teaching methods all developed.
In the years that followed I had articles published nationally, co-wrote journal papers, had visits from multiple nurseries and worked closely with Shropshire Council to support other settings in the area.
Children loved coming to Busy Bodies and made fantastical progress. Parents and carers were actively involved in the setting, and we had fantastic relationships with them.
We were nominated for multiple awards year on year and had a fantastic reputation both locally and nationally.
We received an Outstanding grading from Ofsted, and they were impressed with all aspects of the setting.
I really enjoyed owning and managing a Kindergarten and it was a pleasure to be part of so many children’s and families lives.

In 2023 I sold the setting. I had spent my whole career in Early Years and Education and needed a short break to reflect and spend time with my wife and two daughters (and dog). In 2024 I said goodbye to Busy Bodies.

I am now ready to get back into the world of Early Years, share my knowledge, skills and experience and help other settings develop and have the same successes I had.

As an independent Early Years Foundation Stage Consultant, I can offer an array of services. I have a hard working, passionate approach and an infectious enthusiasm for the EYFS and improvement. I simply want all children to obtain the solid educational foundation that they truly deserve.

Feedback and Testimonials

"I have been fortunate to work with James on several occasions and can confidently attest to his outstanding practice as an early years leader.
James was a student of mine many years ago, and we have remained in contact ever since. I have followed his career with great interest and admiration. His leadership of a highly respected early years setting was exemplary. James is an empathetic and effective leader, well-liked and respected by his dedicated staff team. He prioritised team morale and
motivation, fostering a culture of care, positivity, and collaboration. His excellent interpersonal skills earned him the trust and affection of colleagues, professionals, and children alike. Local authority advisors have also praised the warm and welcoming atmosphere of his nursery.
James generously contributed to a major research project I conducted as part of my PhD, going above and beyond in his involvement. The study explored early years practitioners’ experiences of empathy in their work, and James provided numerous insightful examples drawn from his daily practice.
In addition to his practical contributions, James has also made a mark in professional writing. He has authored several articles for early years publications and co-authored three academic journal articles with me, all of which have been well received. His passion for the care and education of young children, particularly through person-centred approaches, is evident in everything he does.
I am delighted to hear about James’s new venture as an early years advisor and look forward to seeing him share his joyful, professional approach with a wider audience."

Dr Angela Hodgkins (she/her)

NNEB, BA, MA, PhD

Senior Lecturer

Course Leader - BA (Hons) Integrated Working with Children and Families

Co-lead Social Pedagogy Research Group

HEA Senior Fellow

University of Worcester