Work-based Practice in the Early Years ― A Guide for Students

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.

Samantha McMahon is Principal Lecturer and Complex Pathway Leader for a range of early years courses at the University of Huddersfield, UK.

Mary Dyer is Senior Lecturer in Early Years at the University of Huddersfield, UK.