The Bristol Men in The Early Years (BMITEY) Network is
a new city-wide network bringing together early years practitioners, leaders
and partners to strengthen support for men working in the sector and to create
wider conversations about gender, care and inclusion in early childhood.

Our first meeting of 2026/27
will be an opportunity to connect with others, hear more about the ambitions
for the network, and help shape its future direction.

Together, we will begin
developing a Bristol-wide pledge for early years settings, focused on five
areas of practice: recruitment, belonging and professional culture,
gender-equitable pedagogy, families and partnerships, and leadership and
accountability. The session will be practical and discussion-based, exploring
what good practice could look like across these areas and what support settings
need to develop their work.

Men working in early years are at the heart of this network, and
we especially want to create a space where they can connect, share experiences
and help shape change across Bristol. We use the term ‘men’ in the widest and
most inclusive sense, including trans men and anyone who identifies as a man.

We also absolutely welcome women, non-binary practitioners,
leaders and partners who want to support this work and contribute to wider
conversations about gender in early childhood.

You do not need to currently employ any men in your setting to
join the network. Settings that want to think more intentionally about
recruitment, gender, inclusion and creating environments where men can enter,
belong and thrive are very welcome.

Network led by Dr Shaddai Tembo, Critical Early
Years and Sam Williams, Headteacher at Redcliffe Nursery School.