International Perspectives on Early Years Workforce Development

This up to date text is suitable for students on all early years and early childhood courses as well as interested practitioners. It looks at the current structure of the early childhood education and care (ECEC) workforce in different countries, each of which represents a distinct philosophical tradition, tracing what has shaped this structure and examining how politics and policy have moulded the workforce over time. Each chapter analyses historical, philosophical and political developments in the respective country and looks at key theorists, the concepts of childhood that have shaped the workforce and the pedagogical approach. The unique aspects of each country are highlighted along with a consideration of what the future might hold for the workforce. Students and practitioners will achieve a more critical understanding of current practice and the beliefs which underpin particular pedagogical approaches while being encouraged to question their own values and practice.

Verity Campbell-Barr is a Lecturer in Early Childhood Studies at the Plymouth Institute of Education, Plymouth University. Her research interests include the mixed economy of childcare and early years education provision, experiences of working in early childhood occupations, the role of childcare in supporting employment and the welfare to work agenda, and understandings of quality childcare and early years education from multiple perspectives. Janet Georgeson is a Research Fellow in Early Education Development at the Plymouth Institute of Education, Plymouth University. Her role involves developing and conducting independent research projects and collaborating with colleagues in the development of research within the School of Education, and she has a particular interest in research methods. She is currently researching the professionalisation of the early years workforce, and early cognitive development, including the role of parents, practitioners and other care-givers.

1. Introduction: the early childhood education and care workforce in a global context 2. Australia 3. Hungary 4. Italy 5. Japan 6. Russia 7. Germany 8. The Philippines 9. Sweden 10. The UK 11. Conclusion: Mapping Philosophies and Traditions in Workforce Development Around the World