This week, Catherine, Princess of Wales will visit Reggio Emilia to explore one of the world’s most respected early years education philosophies: the Reggio Emilia Approach. Her visit highlights a growing global recognition that the earliest years of a child’s life are not simply preparation for school — they are the foundation for lifelong wellbeing, confidence, creativity and learning.

The Reggio Emilia Approach was developed in northern Italy after the Second World War by educator Loris Malaguzzi and local families who believed children deserved a richer, more respectful educational experience. At its heart is a simple but powerful belief: children are capable, curious and full of potential.

Rather than focusing purely on outcomes or rigid routines, Reggio-inspired settings encourage children to explore, investigate, collaborate and express themselves in many different ways — often referred to as the “hundred languages of children.” Creativity, communication, relationships and the environment itself all play an important role in learning.

Princess Kate’s long-standing work through The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood has consistently emphasised the importance of emotional development, secure relationships and nurturing environments during the first five years of life. Her decision to visit Reggio Emilia reflects a wider shift in understanding: high-quality early years education is about far more than childcare — it shapes the adults children become.

Inspirations Nurseries have for many years seen the value in this approach and structure our whole ethos around it. We believe children learn best when they feel safe, valued and inspired. We see every child as unique, capable and full of ideas worth listening to. Our environments are carefully designed to encourage curiosity, independence and meaningful exploration, giving children opportunities to lead their own learning through play, creativity and discovery.

Relationships are also central to everything we do. Reggio Emilia places great importance on collaboration between children, educators and families — something we deeply value across our nursery community.

By working in partnership with parents and carers, we create a consistent and supportive environment where children can thrive emotionally, socially and academically.

Another important connection is the role of the environment. Reggio Emilia settings such as are own are often described as using the environment as the “third teacher,” with thoughtfully arranged spaces that inspire investigation and imagination. At Inspirations Nurseries, we recognise how powerful a calm, engaging and nurturing environment can be in supporting children’s confidence and development. From open-ended resources to natural materials and creative learning opportunities, we aim to create spaces where children feel motivated to explore and express themselves freely.

Princess Kate’s visit to Reggio Emilia shines an important spotlight on early years education and the incredible impact it has on society. It is encouraging to see global conversations increasingly recognising the value of emotionally rich, child-centred learning experiences.

For us at Inspirations Nurseries, it reaffirms something we see every day: when children are nurtured with care, respect and inspiration in their earliest years, they develop the confidence, resilience and curiosity that will support them for life.

If you want to learn more about Reggio – talk to any of our staff this parents evening Tuesday 16th June– its central to everything we do.