Do we do what we do because it’s what we’ve always done? The role of Higher Education in challenging normative discourses in Early Childhood Education and Care.

The majority of ECEC practitioners have never participated in HE and yet I argue that HE and ECEC are highly complementary, with HE playing a vital role in advocating for the UNCRC rights of young children. I will present a reflexive account of how my MA in Early Years Education is helping me rethink my vision for childhood, in the format of Q&A with my MA tutor. This will recognise that education is always political and involves making continual decisions about practice. The normative discourses and assumptions that are so prevalent in the field can only be challenged where there is space to consider alternatives. HE enables the critique of the established research base promoted by regulatory bodies, resisting when necessary in order to promote the best interests of children. Bridging the HE context with a MA in EY Education and a pedagogical leadership role in a large PVI nursery, I have the privilege of shaping the curriculum design and working with a team of skilled and early career practitioners. Sharing the thought-provoking questions from the MA course is rekindling the fire our EY professionals have, promoting professional development and a strong sense of community within our team, all of which is vital in an industry facing a recruitment and retention crisis.