Inspired by the first-hand experiences of those studying early childhood education and care, this book supports students as they gain advanced knowledge and skills, and embark on the journey from inexperienced student to graduate professional. Bringing together advanced theory, links to research, and illustrative case studies, Advanced Work-based Practice in the Early Years enables students to consolidate learning by applying theory to practice and identifying the skills, knowledge and personal traits which will help them succeed as a graduate practitioner. Chapters address a wealth of topical issues relating to both the development of the child and the student’s own professional development. Areas of focus include ethical practice, safeguarding and child protection, the voice of the child, the role of the mentor, observation, assessment and the social and cultural factors which may impact on a child’s development. Including reflective activities, practical tips, and examples of student experience throughout, this is an essential text for all early years students as they make the transition from academic study to professional practice.

Bringing together the essential theory, research and policy with examples from practice, Work-based Practice in the Early Years: A Guide for Students provides a complete guide to successful work placements for early years students. It makes links to the Occupational Standards for the Early Years Educator and the Teacher Standards for early years, and integrates examples of effective, universal and inclusive practice throughout. Following an overview of the research and policy context which has shaped the sector since the 1990s, this new text is designed to prepare and support you, the student, as you embark on your placement, which is an integral part of your early years degree. It covers the key information you need about safeguarding and the curriculum frameworks, EYFS and the National Curriculum KS1, alongside chapters on reflective practice and research to support your developing professional and practical skills. Written with the student in mind, this book draws on first-hand student experiences and introduces the idea of working towards being a leader of practice and the wider role in working with parents and families. This comprehensive guide also considers the views of placement providers, examining the roles and responsibilities of both the student and provider, and offering insight into their expectations and what factors make a work placement successful. Including reflective activities, students' views and evidence from student portfolios, this is an essential text for all early years’ students undertaking their work placement.

In the early years sector of education, all practitioners are now expected to engage in work-based research,as a means of improving practice and demonstrating leadership. Using examples from recent practitioner projects, Work-Based Research in the Early Years focuses on the development of research in practice and how it can work in a variety of settings. With the aim of clarifying themes and concepts for inexperienced researchers, the text explores principles underpinning research, supported by case studies, which will be of particular relevance to students undertaking their own small-scale investigations. Further reading on research methodology is also included. Chapters are organized under three headings: planning for research, doing research, and learning from research. Concentrating on action research, this book provides practitioners and undergraduates with a greater understanding of the position of the researcher, how to facilitate research and how to ensure it underpins raising achievement and change in the workplace. There is an emphasis on the impact of research on practice, illustrated through reflection.

This practical text supports early years students and practitioners to build confidence in planning for learning across all stages of the EYFS and in the many different contexts in which it is delivered.

This book supports students on foundation degrees and degrees in Early Years and Early Childhood Studies that have a work-based element. An essential introduction to becoming a professional in the sector, it begins by looking at work-based learning and goes on to cover study, research skills and essential subject knowledge. It includes activities to help students increase their confidence and get the most out of their course. Essential information on Early Years Professional Status (EYPS) considers the current scene and the future of the sector.

This core textbook for foundation degrees covers the content of the 12 core outcomes at the appropriate depth and breadth giving students a complete grounding in the basics of the subject.

Examines systemic issues contributing to inequities in early childhood, with ways faculty, teachers, administrators, and policymakers can work to disrupt them.