Editor's view - Time to reflect
Monday, January 26, 2015
So much of policy-making and change feels short-term in nature that it is refreshing and illuminating to step back and think about the long term - history.
That's just what Wendy Scott, a Nursery World Lifetime Achievement Award winner who has indeed spent a lifetime working to improve services for young children, has done in this issue.
Wendy has just been awarded a much-deserved OBE, despite never having been reluctant to speak out about political decisions she thinks are misguided - which should encourage others to carry on engaging in frank debate!
In her article, Wendy explores the rich traditions of British early childhood education and the landmark reports and studies that have endorsed an approach that has won plaudits around the world.
Our lovely photos to accompany the feature were taken at Rachel McMillan Nursery School, founded by the early years pioneer and her sister 100 years ago and still working to their principles of first-hand experience and active learning through play.
As we approach the election, it would be wise for politicians of all parties to reflect on the need to preserve the best nursery provision and practice and heed the words of a seasoned campaigner.
Just the ticket
The Nursery World Show 2015 is fast approaching, and it promises to be vibrant, packed, informative and entertaining. Thousands of early years practitioners and managers have registered to attend our exhibition and fantastic seminar and masterclass programme. It's a great chance for the early years community to meet up. There's still time to sign up at www.nurseryworldshow.com.
