Early childhood education and care in Ireland : charting a century of developments (1921-2021) / Nóirín Hayes, Thomas Walsh, Editors.

Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

This edited book explores the origins and evolution of the early childhood education and care (ECEC) system on the island of Ireland since the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1921. While the book acknowledges and celebrates the role of parents in caring for and educating their young children within the home, the key focus is on the provisions outside the home for children from birth to six years. It critiques the historical and contemporary provision under a number of key themes including curriculum, the policy and legislative landscapes, inspection and regulation, Irish language provision and professionalisation. Written by key experts and actors from the sector, it makes a unique contribution to the existing literature by bringing together in one collection a critical analysis of the key themes relating to the development of ECEC in Ireland. Moreover, signposts and signals for the future development of the sector are integral to the book.

Author notes provided by Syndetics

Prof. Nóirín Hayesis Visiting Academic at the School of Education, Trinity College Dublin and Professor Emerita, Centre for Social and Educational Research, Technological University Dublin. She teaches and researches in early childhood education and care (ECEC) with a particular focus on early learning, curriculum and pedagogy and ECEC policy. She is also the first OMEP Champion and Advocate for Early Childhood Education and Care Ireland.

Dr Thomas Walshis an Associate Professor and Deputy Head of the Department of Education, Maynooth University. His teaching and research interests include history of education, education policy, early childhood education and curriculum studies. He has previously worked as a primary school teacher, an ECEC researcher and as a primary school inspector.