SEND Tutoring chats to Lourdes Kerr about teaching Child Development and what that entails

Episode Introduction

Today on SEND Tutoring’s podcast we have Lourdes Keer who is a passionate QTLS Early Years Teacher and Lecturer in childhood development in the Higher Education sector at Middlesex University, with a PGCert in Early Years Foundation Status and a PGCE in FE and more than 25 years of experience working in the sector.

With the drive and ambition to provide an exceptional student experience, be it the youngest learners in her early years setting or her mature students at college and university. This passion is enhanced by strong leadership and relationship-building skills, together with extensive and relevant subject knowledge. Currently studying a part-time MSc. in Educational Psychology, finding the experience motivating and highly thought-provoking, especially in how the newly acquired knowledge relates to Early Years’ experience and practice.

Her role as an Early Years professional is to provide advice and knowledge exchange to lecturers and others involved within the Early Years sector. Having the opportunity to support large groups of young children within the sector, during her role as a childminder -14 years, provided her with the necessary skills to identify when children are not reaching their developmental milestones. She can work alongside parents in addressing the individual needs of their children and how to access the necessary specialist support when needed.

Her current role as an Area Lead for the Department for Education (DfE) Childminder Mentor Programme, is to support mentors and childminders in identifying their strengths and weaknesses within their practice and provide advice, guidance, and suggestions to support children most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

She has thoroughly enjoyed supporting Dr. Jacqueline Harding in the development of her book “The Brain that loves to Play, A Visual Guide to child development, play and brain growth” (2022), by allowing access to the early years setting she managed at the time and providing insightful comments on videos of children during their play.

Career History

• Area Lead – The Department for Education (DfE) Childminder Mentor programme, support to childminders across England, May 2023 until the present.
• Lecturer in Education and Early Childhood Studies – Middlesex University, 2020 until present
• Owner and Manager at White Rose Childcare (Ofsted Registered)– 2009 until December 2022

The questions that we sent ahead were:

• What does a lecturer for Education and Child Studies entail?
• What do you think are the three most important issues that face children today?
• If you could change an area for the better, what would it be and why?

During the pod, Lourdes spoke about how theory informs practice. The Attachment Theory is discussed and written about by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth. The attachment theory informs our statutory framework in the Early Years Foundation Stage which is all about nurturing positive relationships. The course that she lectures about covers children’s rights, history, sociology, health, policy and theory, law, and how to be a manager in a setting.

Podcast Episode Highlights

Questions Explored:

What does being a lecturer in Education and Child Studies entail?

Lourdes sheds light on the intersection of theory and practice in her role. She emphasises the significance of Attachment Theory, as proposed by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, in shaping the Early Years Foundation Stage. The course she lectures covers a comprehensive spectrum, including children’s rights, sociology, health, policy, theory, and management skills.

What do you think are the three most important issues that face children today?

Lourdes delves into pressing issues, such as mental health challenges, the impact of technology on play and development, and the need for a holistic approach to education that goes beyond academic achievements. Her insights reflect a holistic understanding of the complexities children face in today’s world.

If you could change an area for the better, what would it be and why?

Lourdes envisions positive transformations in the recognition and support of childminders, emphasising the crucial role they play in children’s development. She advocates for increased understanding and acknowledgment of the valuable contributions made by childminders.

Conclusion:

It was a privilege to have Lourdes Keer on SEND Tutoring’s podcast, sharing her wealth of knowledge and passion for early years education. Her dedication to creating a positive impact on the lives of children and supporting those in the field is truly commendable.

For those seeking specialised tutors in Early Years education, visit our Find a Tutor page and look for a specialist SEND Tutor near you.

Thank you, Lourdes, for being a valuable guest on our podcast.

If you have any questions on the topics discussed in this podcast, or are looking for help finding a specialist one-to-one tutor for your child, book a free consultation with us today, we’ll be happy to help.