Meet the Expert

“I knew from the age of 11 that I wanted to work with children, and I began my career in childcare at just 16 years old. More than 30 years later, that passion has never left me.

I have worked across several different settings throughout my career, and each experience has shaped the practitioner I am today and strengthened my belief in what truly inclusive Early Years education can look like.

I have always loved learning. I thrive on discovering new information, exploring relevant theories and questioning how we can make our practice better for children. Even after more than three decades in Early Years, I still believe there is always something new to learn.

Over the years, I have developed a particular passion for supporting children with differing needs to reach their full potential. I believe every child should be able to reach for the stars, and sometimes it is our job to lower those stars so that they are within reach.

My understanding of inclusion is also personal. As a parent of a child with additional needs, I have experienced some of the challenges and emotions that can come with navigating support for your child. It has reinforced how important it is for parents to feel listened to, understood and genuinely included. Families know their children better than anyone, and working with them is fundamental to meaningful inclusion.

Joining KatieB Kids gave me the freedom to really put my beliefs into practice. I have been able to help create an environment where inclusion is woven into everyday practice, adapting environments, developing sensory and visual supports, working alongside families and other professionals, and asking what we can change to remove barriers for children.

A particularly inspiring part of my journey was visiting Reggio Emilia in Italy. Seeing the approach first-hand was awe-inspiring, particularly its emphasis on project-based learning and how this can allow every child to participate and contribute in their own way.

My passion for learning extends to the people I work alongside too. I am passionate about prioritising staff CPD because when educators are supported to reach their potential, the children they care for benefit too.

More than 30 years after I first stepped into childcare, I am still learning and still just as passionate about making a difference.

Every child deserves the opportunity to reach for their stars. Sometimes, our job is simply to bring those stars a little closer.”