slide 1 the way forward for the ‘early years’ valedictory lecture by dr. francis douglas friday...

Slide 1

The Way Forward for the The Way Forward for the ‘Early Years’‘Early Years’

VALEDICTORY LECTUREVALEDICTORY LECTUREbyby

Dr. Francis DouglasDr. Francis DouglasFriday 27Friday 27thth November, 2009 November, 2009

This lecture will be published on the OMEP (Ireland) This lecture will be published on the OMEP (Ireland) website website www.omepireland.iewww.omepireland.ie

(L’(L’OOrganisation rganisation MMondiale pour l’ondiale pour l’EEducation ducation PPrescolaire)rescolaire)

I would like to thank the Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Dara Murphy; the President of I would like to thank the Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Dara Murphy; the President of UCC, Dr. Michael Murphy; the former Vice President of UCC, Professor Aine Hyland; UCC, Dr. Michael Murphy; the former Vice President of UCC, Professor Aine Hyland; the Dean of Social Sciences, Professor Fred Powell; and Professor David Cox, Head of the Dean of Social Sciences, Professor Fred Powell; and Professor David Cox, Head of the College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences; for the very generous things the College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences; for the very generous things they have just said about me.they have just said about me.

I would like to thank the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheal Martin TD, for his very I would like to thank the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheal Martin TD, for his very kind comments. I would also like to thank him for approaching me when he was the kind comments. I would also like to thank him for approaching me when he was the opposition spokesperson for Education and involving me in the drawing up of the opposition spokesperson for Education and involving me in the drawing up of the Fianna Fail position paper on Early Childhood Education. It was this position paper Fianna Fail position paper on Early Childhood Education. It was this position paper which provided the catalyst, when he became Minister of Education, for the Forum for which provided the catalyst, when he became Minister of Education, for the Forum for early Childhood Education in Dublin Castle, at which Dr. Mary Horgan and myself early Childhood Education in Dublin Castle, at which Dr. Mary Horgan and myself were invited to speak, and the Forum Report and subsequent White Paper on Early were invited to speak, and the Forum Report and subsequent White Paper on Early Childhood Education which was published in 1999.Childhood Education which was published in 1999.

I would also like to thank Deirdre Clune TD and David Stanton TD for inviting me to I would also like to thank Deirdre Clune TD and David Stanton TD for inviting me to do likewise when they were formulating Fine Gail’s policy on the “Early Years”. I do likewise when they were formulating Fine Gail’s policy on the “Early Years”. I would also like to take this opportunity to encourage their party to continue to look would also like to take this opportunity to encourage their party to continue to look seriously at Early Childhood Education and Care as I’m sure they will. seriously at Early Childhood Education and Care as I’m sure they will.

I would like to thank the Head of the School of Education UCC, Professor Kathy Hall, I would like to thank the Head of the School of Education UCC, Professor Kathy Hall, for hosting this event and since her arrival, two years ago, for engaging the UCC for hosting this event and since her arrival, two years ago, for engaging the UCC “Early Years Team” in the writing of a book on the Italian pre-school educator “Early Years Team” in the writing of a book on the Italian pre-school educator Malaguzzi. Early Childhood Studies is in good hands! I would also like to thank all my Malaguzzi. Early Childhood Studies is in good hands! I would also like to thank all my colleagues in the Education Department, UCC who supported me over the years.colleagues in the Education Department, UCC who supported me over the years.

I would like to express my deepest thanks to Dr. Joe McEvoy, formerly Head of the I would like to express my deepest thanks to Dr. Joe McEvoy, formerly Head of the Education Department in St. Joseph’s College of Education, Andersonstown, Belfast. Education Department in St. Joseph’s College of Education, Andersonstown, Belfast. for first fascinating me with Early Childhood Education with his inspirational lectures for first fascinating me with Early Childhood Education with his inspirational lectures on Educational Psychology.on Educational Psychology.

Dr. Douglas, The Professor of Early Childhood Studies retired on the Dr. Douglas, The Professor of Early Childhood Studies retired on the 1st of October, 2009 and before giving his farewell lecture he said :1st of October, 2009 and before giving his farewell lecture he said :

I would like to thank Dr. Mary Wall, who was Head of the Education Department in UCC I would like to thank Dr. Mary Wall, who was Head of the Education Department in UCC from 1988 to 1993, for supporting my proposal for a course on “Learning and the Pre-from 1988 to 1993, for supporting my proposal for a course on “Learning and the Pre-School Child” which was taught through the UCC Adult Education Department from School Child” which was taught through the UCC Adult Education Department from 1989 until 1993. Large numbers of interested people from all over Munster took this 1989 until 1993. Large numbers of interested people from all over Munster took this course. I would also like to remember the late Sean O Mhurchu, the Director of Adult course. I would also like to remember the late Sean O Mhurchu, the Director of Adult Education at the time, for his enthusiastic promotion of this innovative programme.Education at the time, for his enthusiastic promotion of this innovative programme.

I would like to thank the four Professors---Professor Aine Hyland (Education), Professor I would like to thank the four Professors---Professor Aine Hyland (Education), Professor Fred Powell (Applied Social Studies), Professor Peter Kearney (Paediatrics and Child Fred Powell (Applied Social Studies), Professor Peter Kearney (Paediatrics and Child Health) and Professor Max Taylor (Applied Psychology) who agreed to involve their Health) and Professor Max Taylor (Applied Psychology) who agreed to involve their Departments in the new BA Degree in Early Childhood Studies when it was being Departments in the new BA Degree in Early Childhood Studies when it was being planned in 1994/1995. They took a risk and I shall ever be grateful. Other officers of planned in 1994/1995. They took a risk and I shall ever be grateful. Other officers of the University also took risks! I would like to thank the Dean of Arts at the time---the University also took risks! I would like to thank the Dean of Arts at the time---Professor Tom Dunne--- and the Dean of Medicine---Professor John Hall. The support of Professor Tom Dunne--- and the Dean of Medicine---Professor John Hall. The support of the Registrar---Professor Aidan Moran---and the President----Dr Michael Mortell were the Registrar---Professor Aidan Moran---and the President----Dr Michael Mortell were crucial. A special word of thanks must go to Professor Maire Mulcahy who argued the crucial. A special word of thanks must go to Professor Maire Mulcahy who argued the case for a degree in Early Childhood Studies at the Senate of the NUI, and behind the case for a degree in Early Childhood Studies at the Senate of the NUI, and behind the scenes in Dublin, to our benefit.scenes in Dublin, to our benefit.

UCC would not function if it were not for its administrative staff. With respect to UCC would not function if it were not for its administrative staff. With respect to thanking them Hannah Joyce must come top of the list. Hannah joined the Department thanking them Hannah Joyce must come top of the list. Hannah joined the Department of Education in UCC in 1980 when I did. Since then she has had to put up with constant of Education in UCC in 1980 when I did. Since then she has had to put up with constant questions and bright ideas from me which inevitably involved her in more work! I see questions and bright ideas from me which inevitably involved her in more work! I see her very clear hand in the organisation of this function and I thank her for it. I would her very clear hand in the organisation of this function and I thank her for it. I would also like to thank the rest of her team in the School of Education and in particular also like to thank the rest of her team in the School of Education and in particular Claire Dooley who over the years has always given me the benefit of her wisdom and Claire Dooley who over the years has always given me the benefit of her wisdom and experience.experience.

I would like to thank the officers of the College and the Registrar’s Department who I would like to thank the officers of the College and the Registrar’s Department who have worked with me over the years. Dr. Anne Mills deserves a special word of thanks have worked with me over the years. Dr. Anne Mills deserves a special word of thanks for pioneering different methods of access which greatly benefited Early Childhood for pioneering different methods of access which greatly benefited Early Childhood Studies.Studies.

With respect to Early Childhood Studies Lorraine Crossan, the ECS Manager, has been With respect to Early Childhood Studies Lorraine Crossan, the ECS Manager, has been involved almost from the inception of the degree. It is her administrative procedures involved almost from the inception of the degree. It is her administrative procedures and her interpersonal skills that have contributed so much to its success.and her interpersonal skills that have contributed so much to its success.

I would like to thank the members of the Executive Management Group of Early I would like to thank the members of the Executive Management Group of Early Childhood Studies who meet every Thursday afternoon during term time. The key Childhood Studies who meet every Thursday afternoon during term time. The key members over the years have been Dr. Anne Gaffney (Paediatrics), Dr. Aileen Malone members over the years have been Dr. Anne Gaffney (Paediatrics), Dr. Aileen Malone (Paediatrics), Marcella Towler (Paediatrics), Dr. Zelda Di Blasi (App Psychology), Dr. (Paediatrics), Marcella Towler (Paediatrics), Dr. Zelda Di Blasi (App Psychology), Dr. Angela Veale (Applied Psychology), Dr. Deirdre Horgan (Applied Social Studies), Dr. Angela Veale (Applied Psychology), Dr. Deirdre Horgan (Applied Social Studies), Dr. Shirley Martin (Applied Social Studies), Dr. Mary Horgan (Education), Dr. Anna Ridgeway Shirley Martin (Applied Social Studies), Dr. Mary Horgan (Education), Dr. Anna Ridgeway (Education), Pat O’Connor (Education), Lorraine Crossan (Education) and Aoife Duggan (Education), Pat O’Connor (Education), Lorraine Crossan (Education) and Aoife Duggan (Education).(Education).

I would like to congratulate Dr. Anna Ridgway, Pat O’Connor, Dr. Denice Cunningham I would like to congratulate Dr. Anna Ridgway, Pat O’Connor, Dr. Denice Cunningham and Florence Noonan Lepaon for running such an outstanding placement programme for and Florence Noonan Lepaon for running such an outstanding placement programme for the ECS students which includes workshops in our purpose designed classrooms in St. the ECS students which includes workshops in our purpose designed classrooms in St. Vincent’s Primary School, St. Mary’s Road, Cork. I can assure them that this preparation Vincent’s Primary School, St. Mary’s Road, Cork. I can assure them that this preparation for placement course is the envy of all other third level ECS programmes in the Country.for placement course is the envy of all other third level ECS programmes in the Country.

I would like to thank Professor David Cox for his faith in putting me forward to be I would like to thank Professor David Cox for his faith in putting me forward to be appointed as Vice Dean of Arts in 2003. Subsequently, he renewed his faith in appointed as Vice Dean of Arts in 2003. Subsequently, he renewed his faith in suggesting to the President of UCC that he should appoint me as Deputy Head of the suggesting to the President of UCC that he should appoint me as Deputy Head of the College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences in 2005. I would also like to thank him College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences in 2005. I would also like to thank him for the friendship that he and his wife Roz have shown me over the years.for the friendship that he and his wife Roz have shown me over the years.

I would like to thank Professor Noirin Hayes, of the Dublin Institute of Technology, for her I would like to thank Professor Noirin Hayes, of the Dublin Institute of Technology, for her support. Ever since I read her M.Ed. Thesis on Nursery Education in South Dublin, which support. Ever since I read her M.Ed. Thesis on Nursery Education in South Dublin, which she submitted to TCD in the early 1980’s, we have worked together to improve Early she submitted to TCD in the early 1980’s, we have worked together to improve Early Childhood Education and Care in this country. Childhood Education and Care in this country.

I would like to thank Sylda Lankford, now the Principal Officer in the Office for the I would like to thank Sylda Lankford, now the Principal Officer in the Office for the Minister of Children, for appointing me to the Certifying Bodies Subgroup of the Minister of Children, for appointing me to the Certifying Bodies Subgroup of the Government Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform. This subgroup produced Government Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform. This subgroup produced The Model FrameworkThe Model Framework forfor Education Training and Professional Development in the Early Education Training and Professional Development in the Early Childhood Care and Education Sector Childhood Care and Education Sector which was launched by Minister McDowell in 2002. which was launched by Minister McDowell in 2002. I would also like to thank her for more recently suggesting me as the Irish University’s I would also like to thank her for more recently suggesting me as the Irish University’s Association spokesperson on the Sectoral Standards Committee of the NQAI toAssociation spokesperson on the Sectoral Standards Committee of the NQAI to consider consider the mapping of childcare qualifications in this Country. Sylda retires in the coming year the mapping of childcare qualifications in this Country. Sylda retires in the coming year and as a native of Cork, as a person who sat her final exams in this very room in the and as a native of Cork, as a person who sat her final exams in this very room in the 1960’s I hope that UCC will at least consider her for an honoury degree. I can think of 1960’s I hope that UCC will at least consider her for an honoury degree. I can think of no-one in Ireland who has done so much to benefit the lives of young children in this no-one in Ireland who has done so much to benefit the lives of young children in this State as she has.State as she has.

I would like to thank Clare Healy for inviting me to become involved with Montessori I would like to thank Clare Healy for inviting me to become involved with Montessori on the net, an Irish Company which has had a significant affect on early education, on the net, an Irish Company which has had a significant affect on early education, particularly in Norway.particularly in Norway.

A number of years ago I was greatly honoured by being made a Patron of the Irish A number of years ago I was greatly honoured by being made a Patron of the Irish Pre- School Playgroups Association and OMEP (Ireland). I would like to wish both Pre- School Playgroups Association and OMEP (Ireland). I would like to wish both these organisations well in the future.these organisations well in the future.

I would like to draw attention to, and publicly thank, a small number of our most I would like to draw attention to, and publicly thank, a small number of our most successful Ph.D.students who also completed the BA (ECS) in UCC. For example, Dr. successful Ph.D.students who also completed the BA (ECS) in UCC. For example, Dr. Florence Dineen now heads the Early Childhood Studies Department in Mary Florence Dineen now heads the Early Childhood Studies Department in Mary Immaculate College, Limerick; Dr. Maura Cunneen is a full-time permanent member Immaculate College, Limerick; Dr. Maura Cunneen is a full-time permanent member of the School of Education in UCC; Dr. Rosaleen Murphy and Dr. Mary Daly have been of the School of Education in UCC; Dr. Rosaleen Murphy and Dr. Mary Daly have been employed by the NCCA and had a huge influence on the development of employed by the NCCA and had a huge influence on the development of Aistear,Aistear, the the Irish National Curriculum for the zero to six year old child. And there are many more Irish National Curriculum for the zero to six year old child. And there are many more that I apologise to for not being able to mention by name.that I apologise to for not being able to mention by name.

I would like to thank the late Ray Murphy and Colin McCrea of Tara for funding Project I would like to thank the late Ray Murphy and Colin McCrea of Tara for funding Project EYE, which developed a curriculum for the three to four year old child that ties closely EYE, which developed a curriculum for the three to four year old child that ties closely in with in with Aistear, Aistear, and for funding the “Early Years Post-Graduate Programme” which and for funding the “Early Years Post-Graduate Programme” which has resulted in a significant number of completed Ph.D’s since its inception in 1998.has resulted in a significant number of completed Ph.D’s since its inception in 1998.

I would like to thank the Irish Sisters of Charity for inviting me to serve on the Board I would like to thank the Irish Sisters of Charity for inviting me to serve on the Board of Management of St Vincent’s Secondary School, St. Mary’s Road, Cork for fifteen of Management of St Vincent’s Secondary School, St. Mary’s Road, Cork for fifteen years, nine of which I spent as Chairperson. I would particularly like to thank the years, nine of which I spent as Chairperson. I would particularly like to thank the three school principals who served with me during that time for their generosity of three school principals who served with me during that time for their generosity of spirit towards me---Sister Patricia (now known as Sister Eilish), Josephine Coffey and spirit towards me---Sister Patricia (now known as Sister Eilish), Josephine Coffey and Donnacha OBrien. In addition, I would particularly like to thank Josephine and her Donnacha OBrien. In addition, I would particularly like to thank Josephine and her husband Pat for the very real kindness that they have shown me over the years.husband Pat for the very real kindness that they have shown me over the years.

I would like to thank the Board of management of the Cork College of Commerce for I would like to thank the Board of management of the Cork College of Commerce for co-opting me to represent “The World of Education” for the past ten years.co-opting me to represent “The World of Education” for the past ten years.

I would like to thank those that invited me to give over 163 public lectures in Ireland I would like to thank those that invited me to give over 163 public lectures in Ireland and abroad. I would like to thank those that invited me to be external examiner for and abroad. I would like to thank those that invited me to be external examiner for courses here and abroad. And I would like to thank all those that invited me to sit on courses here and abroad. And I would like to thank all those that invited me to sit on the validating panels of new “Early Years” Degrees in Ireland. It is with a great deal the validating panels of new “Early Years” Degrees in Ireland. It is with a great deal of pleasure that I have seen the BA Degree, introduced in UCC in 1995, adopted since of pleasure that I have seen the BA Degree, introduced in UCC in 1995, adopted since then by ten other third level institutions in this Country.then by ten other third level institutions in this Country.

I owe a great debt of gratitude to the staff who befriended me over my 29 years in I owe a great debt of gratitude to the staff who befriended me over my 29 years in UCC such as Dr.Liz Gebruers, Dr. Anne Harris, Professor Fred Powell, Professor Aine UCC such as Dr.Liz Gebruers, Dr. Anne Harris, Professor Fred Powell, Professor Aine Hyland, Dr. Maeve Conrick, Dr Norma Ryan, Professor Grace Neville, Dr.Tracey Hyland, Dr. Maeve Conrick, Dr Norma Ryan, Professor Grace Neville, Dr.Tracey Connolly, Dr. Ciaran Dawson, Dr. Feilim O’hAdhmaill , Professor Peter Herrmann and Connolly, Dr. Ciaran Dawson, Dr. Feilim O’hAdhmaill , Professor Peter Herrmann and many others.many others.

Dr. Mary Horgan has taken over from me as the Director of Early Childhood Studies in Dr. Mary Horgan has taken over from me as the Director of Early Childhood Studies in UCC. No-one could be more delighted than I at this turn of events. What is perhaps UCC. No-one could be more delighted than I at this turn of events. What is perhaps not realised is that there would have been no BA Degree in Early Childhood Studies in not realised is that there would have been no BA Degree in Early Childhood Studies in UCC without her. In the year before the degree started, and in the early years of the UCC without her. In the year before the degree started, and in the early years of the degrees development, she worked all the hours of the day and the night to make the degrees development, she worked all the hours of the day and the night to make the programme the success that it became. I know that she would agree with me when I programme the success that it became. I know that she would agree with me when I say that this could not have been done without the support of her mother Eilis and say that this could not have been done without the support of her mother Eilis and her husband Michael. When Michael became a Veterinary Surgeon little did he realise her husband Michael. When Michael became a Veterinary Surgeon little did he realise that he would play a major part in the development of Early Childhood Studies in this that he would play a major part in the development of Early Childhood Studies in this country!country!

I would like to pay tribute to Hilary the mother of my children, who died just before I would like to pay tribute to Hilary the mother of my children, who died just before Christmas almost 13 years ago. I would also like to pay tribute to our children, Niall Christmas almost 13 years ago. I would also like to pay tribute to our children, Niall and Aoife, of whom I am immensely proud. I also wish to acknowledge their and Aoife, of whom I am immensely proud. I also wish to acknowledge their respective partners, Megan and Donie. Without my children and their partners the respective partners, Megan and Donie. Without my children and their partners the World would be a much less pleasant place. World would be a much less pleasant place.

In my life I have loved a small number of women with a passion which comes from In my life I have loved a small number of women with a passion which comes from the depth of my soul. They are, perhaps, the only human beings who have seen the the depth of my soul. They are, perhaps, the only human beings who have seen the inner me. Their love has shaped the way I am. There is no way that I can repay that inner me. Their love has shaped the way I am. There is no way that I can repay that love for it has a price beyond gold. In particular, in this context, I would like to thank love for it has a price beyond gold. In particular, in this context, I would like to thank my partner Anne who, over the last two years, has brought me such joy and my partner Anne who, over the last two years, has brought me such joy and happiness.happiness.

Slide 2

[1][1]

INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION

Slide 3

The Traveller BoyThe Traveller Boy

Haunted by the findings of Dr. Wall of Haunted by the findings of Dr. Wall of the London Institute of Education and the London Institute of Education and Professor Jerome Bruner.Professor Jerome Bruner.

Importance of improving the status Importance of improving the status of Early Childhood Education and of Early Childhood Education and Care. [I have concentrated on Care. [I have concentrated on Education and Training]Education and Training]

COMMENT ON SLIDE 3COMMENT ON SLIDE 3

THE TRAVELLER BOYTHE TRAVELLER BOY Cast your mind back to the 1980’s and imagine me in a pre-school for travellers in Cast your mind back to the 1980’s and imagine me in a pre-school for travellers in

Turners Cross, Cork. The Montessori teacher is Vera Flynn who subsequently went on Turners Cross, Cork. The Montessori teacher is Vera Flynn who subsequently went on to be well known in Montessori circles here and abroad. The child I am observing is a to be well known in Montessori circles here and abroad. The child I am observing is a boy of about four years of age. Vera tells me that no-one is really sure of his age as boy of about four years of age. Vera tells me that no-one is really sure of his age as he doesn’t have a birth certificate and he has only recently arrived in the Cork area. he doesn’t have a birth certificate and he has only recently arrived in the Cork area. This boy is covered in lice, stinks to high heaven, has holes in his clothes through This boy is covered in lice, stinks to high heaven, has holes in his clothes through which you can see his emaciated body and has on two left hand Wellington boots. I which you can see his emaciated body and has on two left hand Wellington boots. I watch him as he blows through a straw holding his hand at different distances from watch him as he blows through a straw holding his hand at different distances from the end of it and feeling the force of the moving air. Next he takes a plastic junction the end of it and feeling the force of the moving air. Next he takes a plastic junction box and attaches his straw to it. Now when he blows through the straw he can feel air box and attaches his straw to it. Now when he blows through the straw he can feel air coming out of four short pipes at right angles to the central straw. Next he fastens coming out of four short pipes at right angles to the central straw. Next he fastens four more straws to these pipes so that when he blows through the central straw the four more straws to these pipes so that when he blows through the central straw the air comes out of each of them. Next, after some thought, he bends the end of each of air comes out of each of them. Next, after some thought, he bends the end of each of the four straws in such a way that as he blows through the central straw the whole the four straws in such a way that as he blows through the central straw the whole thing revolves like a turbine. He smiles and puts his creation down on the table. The thing revolves like a turbine. He smiles and puts his creation down on the table. The whole concentrated episode lasted for thirteen and a half minutes which was to whole concentrated episode lasted for thirteen and a half minutes which was to become the longest time that I was ever to see a child of that age concentrate for, become the longest time that I was ever to see a child of that age concentrate for, without interruption, in my entire career. Nor did I see such an intelligent or creative without interruption, in my entire career. Nor did I see such an intelligent or creative child of that age again. I returned to the pre-school a fortnight later to find that he child of that age again. I returned to the pre-school a fortnight later to find that he and his family had left the Cork area and it was suspected that they had gone to a and his family had left the Cork area and it was suspected that they had gone to a funeral in Donegal. Vera told me that she thought he was stone deaf but held out funeral in Donegal. Vera told me that she thought he was stone deaf but held out little hope that she would ever see him again.little hope that she would ever see him again.

I am telling you this story because I passionately believe that firstly, you can find I am telling you this story because I passionately believe that firstly, you can find brightness and creativity in every strata of society and that secondly, the child must brightness and creativity in every strata of society and that secondly, the child must always be the centre of our focus. It is all too easy for adults to start suiting always be the centre of our focus. It is all too easy for adults to start suiting themselves when it comes to the education of our children.themselves when it comes to the education of our children.

HAUNTED BY THE FINDINGS OF DR. WALL OF THE LONDON INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION HAUNTED BY THE FINDINGS OF DR. WALL OF THE LONDON INSTITUTE OF EDUCATION AND PROFESSOR JEROME BRUNER.AND PROFESSOR JEROME BRUNER.

When, in the 1970’s, I became deeply interested in early childhood education whilst I When, in the 1970’s, I became deeply interested in early childhood education whilst I was serving as a Lecturer in St. Josephs College of Education in Andersonstown, was serving as a Lecturer in St. Josephs College of Education in Andersonstown, Belfast. I read an article which Dr. Wall had published in the 1960’s in which he said Belfast. I read an article which Dr. Wall had published in the 1960’s in which he said that, on average, half a human beings learning had taken place by the age of fourthat, on average, half a human beings learning had taken place by the age of four. . What moreWhat more proofproof do you require of the vital importance of the early yearsdo you require of the vital importance of the early years? Professor ? Professor Jerome Bruner reinforced this in the 1970’s when he said that core learning was well Jerome Bruner reinforced this in the 1970’s when he said that core learning was well advanced by the age of five. I accept, however, that the truth of these statements advanced by the age of five. I accept, however, that the truth of these statements does depend on your definition of learning.does depend on your definition of learning.

IMPORTANCE OF IMPROVING THE STATUS OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND IMPORTANCE OF IMPROVING THE STATUS OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND CARE.CARE.

I have spent my working life trying to improve the status of this area. Given my I have spent my working life trying to improve the status of this area. Given my background as a primary, post primary and third level teacher it is perhaps not background as a primary, post primary and third level teacher it is perhaps not surprising that I concentrated on education and training in order to achieve this goal. surprising that I concentrated on education and training in order to achieve this goal. However, my belief was reinforced by an increasing amount of research, from However, my belief was reinforced by an increasing amount of research, from different countries, which showed that the higher the level of qualification that the different countries, which showed that the higher the level of qualification that the pre-school practitioner held the more stimulating the experience of the young child in pre-school practitioner held the more stimulating the experience of the young child in their care.their care.

Slide 4

Quality Pre-School ServicesQuality Pre-School Services

Child Centred CurriculumChild Centred Curriculum

[Aistear][Aistear] [Play][Play]

Quality

[Siolta]

Structures

Ex 1991 Childcare Act2006 Pre-School Regs.

Training

Ex BA (ECS)FETAC Level 5


I have frequently said that one simple way to look at the quality of provision in I have frequently said that one simple way to look at the quality of provision in education is to consider, or analyse, it in three ways. These three ways are, education is to consider, or analyse, it in three ways. These three ways are, structures, training and curriculum. structures, training and curriculum. You can see these three in this diagram where I You can see these three in this diagram where I have purposely put curriculum at the top because this is what the child receives and have purposely put curriculum at the top because this is what the child receives and structures and training only have a supporting, although vital, role. We are very structures and training only have a supporting, although vital, role. We are very fortunate that before the government closed down the excellent Centre for Early fortunate that before the government closed down the excellent Centre for Early Childhood Development and Education, almost exactly a year ago, the latter had Childhood Development and Education, almost exactly a year ago, the latter had managed to obtain agreement across the sector for the quality standards to be managed to obtain agreement across the sector for the quality standards to be adopted by all. These standards, and the level of agreement arrived at, are the envy adopted by all. These standards, and the level of agreement arrived at, are the envy of many other countries in the world. It is therefore unfortunate that the next stage, of many other countries in the world. It is therefore unfortunate that the next stage, their full implementation, which was envisaged in the White Paper on Early Education their full implementation, which was envisaged in the White Paper on Early Education (1999) will not now occur. The quality, or otherwise, of our pre-school provision will (1999) will not now occur. The quality, or otherwise, of our pre-school provision will begin to affect Irish society in 10 to 15 years time as our present zero to six year olds begin to affect Irish society in 10 to 15 years time as our present zero to six year olds become teenagers. become teenagers.

Another step forward for the pre-school world has come with the recent publication Another step forward for the pre-school world has come with the recent publication by the NCCA of by the NCCA of Aistear-Aistear-the agreed national curriculum for the zero to six year old the agreed national curriculum for the zero to six year old child in this country.child in this country.

Slide 5

[2][2]

PROFESSIONALISMPROFESSIONALISM

Slide 6

““A Professional is a member of a A Professional is a member of a vocation founded upon vocation founded upon specialised educational training”. specialised educational training”. (Wikipedia)(Wikipedia)

Slide 7

Classically there were only three Classically there were only three professions:professions:

DivinityDivinityMedicineMedicineLawLaw

Slide 8

Historically, the main milestones which Historically, the main milestones which mark an occupation being identified mark an occupation being identified as a profession are:as a profession are:

It became a full-time occupationIt became a full-time occupation The first training school was establishedThe first training school was established The first university school was establishedThe first university school was established The first local association was establishedThe first local association was established The first national assoc. was establishedThe first national assoc. was established The codes of professional ethics were The codes of professional ethics were

introducedintroduced State licensing laws were establishedState licensing laws were established

COMMENT ON SLIDE 8.COMMENT ON SLIDE 8.

It is interesting to read this and see how far we in Early Childhood Education and It is interesting to read this and see how far we in Early Childhood Education and Care have come. Over recent years childcare has become a full time occupation. The Care have come. Over recent years childcare has become a full time occupation. The first full time two year certificate course on childcare was established by Sister first full time two year certificate course on childcare was established by Sister Michael in Cathal Brugha Street (now part of the DIT) in the mid 1970’s. The first Michael in Cathal Brugha Street (now part of the DIT) in the mid 1970’s. The first Honours Degree Course in Ireland, North or South, was established here, in UCC, in Honours Degree Course in Ireland, North or South, was established here, in UCC, in 1995. The first local association was established about two years ago in Cork as “1995. The first local association was established about two years ago in Cork as “The The Association of Childcare Professionals (Cork Branch)”.Association of Childcare Professionals (Cork Branch)”. I am delighted to be able to tell I am delighted to be able to tell you that I heard recently that Waterford is proposing to form a second branch. you that I heard recently that Waterford is proposing to form a second branch. Usually what happens is that when there are sufficient local branches someone will Usually what happens is that when there are sufficient local branches someone will suggest that representatives from the local branches should form a National suggest that representatives from the local branches should form a National Association. The key point to remember is that this type of professional association Association. The key point to remember is that this type of professional association cannot be enforced from the top. Like “cannot be enforced from the top. Like “Quality” Quality” it must come from the bottom up. it must come from the bottom up.

Slide 9

[3][3]

The Model Framework for The Model Framework for Education, Training and Education, Training and

Professional Development Professional Development (J.E. & L. R. 2002)(J.E. & L. R. 2002)

Slide 10


The Model Framework for Education, Training and Professional Development The Model Framework for Education, Training and Professional Development published by the Government Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform published by the Government Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform proposes five different levels of education and training from Basic Practitioner to proposes five different levels of education and training from Basic Practitioner to Expert Practitioner with different levels of practical experience at each level built in. Expert Practitioner with different levels of practical experience at each level built in. In order to deal with the real situation on the ground it also proposes a method In order to deal with the real situation on the ground it also proposes a method whereby you can climb the ladder with no formal qualifications. This is necessary whereby you can climb the ladder with no formal qualifications. This is necessary when you are moving from a situation where few in the sector are qualified by when you are moving from a situation where few in the sector are qualified by examination although they have experience, to a situation where, hopefully, examination although they have experience, to a situation where, hopefully, everybody will be qualified by experience and examination. I am delighted to hear everybody will be qualified by experience and examination. I am delighted to hear that most people working with young children in the Cork area now have a FETAC that most people working with young children in the Cork area now have a FETAC level 5 qualification and many of them a level 6 or above.level 5 qualification and many of them a level 6 or above.

Slide 11


The Model Framework also contains this diagram containing core knowledge and The Model Framework also contains this diagram containing core knowledge and skills which are incorporated into all five levels in the framework.skills which are incorporated into all five levels in the framework.

I myself found this diagram particularly useful as a checklist when validating degrees I myself found this diagram particularly useful as a checklist when validating degrees in Early Childhood Education and Care for HETAC in Institutes of Technology and in Early Childhood Education and Care for HETAC in Institutes of Technology and private colleges all over Ireland.private colleges all over Ireland.

Slide 12

[4][4]

UCC’s UCC’s Survey of GraduatesSurvey of Graduates(B.A. Early Childhood (B.A. Early Childhood

Studies 1995-2008)Studies 1995-2008)

Slide 13

BA (ECS) UCC At the Time of the Survey 2008

Primary Teaching

25%

Lecturing7%

Special Needs/Child

Health21%

Postgraduate Study14%

Childcare13%

Social Care13%

Other5%

Unemployed2%


This diagram, which is taken from a recent OMEP (Ireland) publication compiled and This diagram, which is taken from a recent OMEP (Ireland) publication compiled and edited by Pat O’Connor, is interesting as it charts the employment of the UCC edited by Pat O’Connor, is interesting as it charts the employment of the UCC graduates from the first to graduate in 1998 to the graduates of 2007. As can be graduates from the first to graduate in 1998 to the graduates of 2007. As can be seen 25% have become primary teachers by taking a graduate course in primary seen 25% have become primary teachers by taking a graduate course in primary teaching, either here or abroad, after they obtained there degree. The other teaching, either here or abroad, after they obtained there degree. The other significant grouping concerns “significant grouping concerns “Special Needs”Special Needs” (21%) and “ (21%) and “Social Care”Social Care” (13%). It is of (13%). It is of particular significance that 7% of our graduates are now lecturing either at third level particular significance that 7% of our graduates are now lecturing either at third level or in what I would call “two and a half level” such as in our Cork College of or in what I would call “two and a half level” such as in our Cork College of Commerce where there are currently over 300 students enrolled on childcare or early Commerce where there are currently over 300 students enrolled on childcare or early education courses. Finally, it should be noted that at the time of the survey 14% of education courses. Finally, it should be noted that at the time of the survey 14% of our graduates where enrolled on postgraduate courses. This bodes extremely well for our graduates where enrolled on postgraduate courses. This bodes extremely well for their future and the future of Early Childhood Education and Care in this Country.their future and the future of Early Childhood Education and Care in this Country.

A striking finding from this survey is that only 13% of our graduates have chosen to A striking finding from this survey is that only 13% of our graduates have chosen to find employment in the childcare sector probably reflecting the low status and low find employment in the childcare sector probably reflecting the low status and low pay and prospects of this area. pay and prospects of this area. I repeat again that there is now a very strong body of I repeat again that there is now a very strong body of research to show that, all other things being equal, the higher the level of research to show that, all other things being equal, the higher the level of qualification the better the experience of the young child. qualification the better the experience of the young child. If we really do care about If we really do care about the future of our youngest citizens we need as a society to address the issue of the the future of our youngest citizens we need as a society to address the issue of the pay and conditions of our pre-school educators.pay and conditions of our pre-school educators.

Slide 14

[5][5]

CurriculumCurriculum

Slide 15

Connections across CurriculumConnections across CurriculumCHILDCHILD

* Religious education is the responsibility of the different church groups.

(Project EYE)Early Childhood Curriculum used in Ireland

CreativeLanguagePersonalSocialPhysicalEmotionalMoralSpiritualCognitive

Framework for Early Learning

Well-beingIdentity and belongingCommunicationExploring and thinking

Primary SchoolCurriculum

LanguageMathematicsSocial, environmentaland scientific educ.Arts educationPhysical educationSocial, personal andhealth educationReligious education*

Development

Aistear

Taken from Framework for Early Learning (NCCA 2006)


This diagram is taken from the NCCA discussion document entitled “The Framework This diagram is taken from the NCCA discussion document entitled “The Framework for Early Learning” published in 2006. The chairperson of the advisory committee for Early Learning” published in 2006. The chairperson of the advisory committee was Dr. Liz Dunphy of St. Patrick’s College of Education, Drumcondra, Dublin and the was Dr. Liz Dunphy of St. Patrick’s College of Education, Drumcondra, Dublin and the deputy chairperson was my colleague in UCC, Dr. Mary Horgan. The eight deputy chairperson was my colleague in UCC, Dr. Mary Horgan. The eight developmental areas upon which Mary and I decided when we were developing developmental areas upon which Mary and I decided when we were developing ““Project EYE: An Irish Curriculum for the three to four year old child” Project EYE: An Irish Curriculum for the three to four year old child” appear in the appear in the left hand column together with an additional one (left hand column together with an additional one (PersonalPersonal) which the committee felt ) which the committee felt to be necessary. “to be necessary. “Project EYE” Project EYE” was the result of a three year research project, was the result of a three year research project, commencing in 1996, for which Mary and I received IR£100,000 from “Tara” which commencing in 1996, for which Mary and I received IR£100,000 from “Tara” which has now become “Atlantic Philanthropies”. This curriculum has now sold more than has now become “Atlantic Philanthropies”. This curriculum has now sold more than 800 copies and has been purchased by both pre-schools and primary schools in this 800 copies and has been purchased by both pre-schools and primary schools in this country and abroad. It is perhaps the endeavour of which I am most proud as it country and abroad. It is perhaps the endeavour of which I am most proud as it contains the real-life curriculum experiences of Cork pre-school educators and it is contains the real-life curriculum experiences of Cork pre-school educators and it is empowering and transferable in its content to the undoubted benefit of all those empowering and transferable in its content to the undoubted benefit of all those adults and children that come into contact with it.adults and children that come into contact with it.

It should be noted that the developmental areas on the left of the diagram flow into It should be noted that the developmental areas on the left of the diagram flow into four themes before expanding out into thefour themes before expanding out into the seven areas of the revised primary school seven areas of the revised primary school curriculum of 1999. This will hopefully lead to a “seam-less transition” between the curriculum of 1999. This will hopefully lead to a “seam-less transition” between the pre-school and the primary school.pre-school and the primary school.

Slide 16

[6][6]

ComparisonComparisonof Irelandof Ireland

with Denmarkwith Denmark


I now wish to compare Ireland with Denmark with respect to Early Childhood I now wish to compare Ireland with Denmark with respect to Early Childhood Education and Care. It is my view that there is much to be gained from the study of Education and Care. It is my view that there is much to be gained from the study of other countries as their different systems bring into sharp focus the provision that we other countries as their different systems bring into sharp focus the provision that we have in this country---alternative ways of doing things are thus highlighted.have in this country---alternative ways of doing things are thus highlighted.

Slide 17

GDP Per Capita of Ireland and Denmark

Relative to EU average 1960-2008

0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1

1.2

1.4

1960

1962

1964

1966

1968

1970

1972

1974

1976

1978

1980

1982

1984

1986

1988

1990

1992

1994

1996

1998

2000

2002

2004

2006

2008

Year

Rela

tive

to E

U a

vera

ge

Average EU=1.0 Denmark % EU Ireland % EUSources: http://www.ggdc.net/

and http://www.cso.ie/


This graph shows that from 1960 until 1988 Ireland was a poor country which had a This graph shows that from 1960 until 1988 Ireland was a poor country which had a per capitaper capita income of approximately 0.6 of the EU average. From 1988 until 2007 income of approximately 0.6 of the EU average. From 1988 until 2007 Ireland became richer reaching a peak of just over 1.3 of the EU average and then Ireland became richer reaching a peak of just over 1.3 of the EU average and then declined. However, Ireland is still a rich country and is comparable to Denmark in declined. However, Ireland is still a rich country and is comparable to Denmark in wealth and income per head of population. It is therefore instructive to compare the wealth and income per head of population. It is therefore instructive to compare the two social systems.two social systems.

Slide 18

Public Expenditure on Education (2002)

0

2

4

6

8

10

Ireland Denmark

Public Expenditure on Education (% GDP)2002Pre-Primary and Primary % of GDP 2002

Sources: http://www.ggdc.net/

http://www.cso.ie/


It can be seen that the Danes spend almost double the amount that Ireland does on It can be seen that the Danes spend almost double the amount that Ireland does on Pre-Primary and Primary Education (As a % of GDP).Pre-Primary and Primary Education (As a % of GDP).

Slide 19

Tax Revenues % GDP (2002)

0.00%

10.00%

20.00%

30.00%

40.00%

50.00%

60.00%

Ireland Denmark

Sources: http://www.ggdc.net/http://www.cso.ie/


This is paid for by having a much higher level of taxation----almost 50% as against This is paid for by having a much higher level of taxation----almost 50% as against 30%.30%.

Slide 20

The Irish EconomyThe Irish Economy

If you value all Irish people as being equal it could If you value all Irish people as being equal it could be argued that between 1995 and 2008 there be argued that between 1995 and 2008 there was a missed opportunity to invest in those was a missed opportunity to invest in those people i.e. in:people i.e. in:(a)(a) healthhealth(b) education(b) education(c)(c) childcarechildcare(d) affordable housing(d) affordable housing

Instead there was a significant reduction in overall Instead there was a significant reduction in overall taxation during this period which limited the taxation during this period which limited the development of (a) – (d) above.development of (a) – (d) above.

For the next part of my presentation I am going to look very briefly at the Danish pre-For the next part of my presentation I am going to look very briefly at the Danish pre-school system, concluding with the Education and Training of their Social Educators. I school system, concluding with the Education and Training of their Social Educators. I will let you make your own comparisons with Ireland and draw your own conclusions.will let you make your own comparisons with Ireland and draw your own conclusions.

Slide 21

DENMARKDENMARK

In 1974 approximately 50% of In 1974 approximately 50% of mothers stayed at home with young mothers stayed at home with young children.children.

Today well over 90% of mothers Today well over 90% of mothers return to full time employment after return to full time employment after their maternity leave.their maternity leave.

Slide 22

There has been an increased There has been an increased demand for pre-school places since demand for pre-school places since 1974 despite the birth rate falling 1974 despite the birth rate falling from approx. 80,000 in 1974 to from approx. 80,000 in 1974 to 60,000 in 1986 to 57,000 in 2008. 60,000 in 1986 to 57,000 in 2008. This has put enormous pressure on This has put enormous pressure on the public purse.the public purse.

Slide 23

DENMARKDENMARK

The most wealthy parents pay a The most wealthy parents pay a maximum of 30% of the cost of pre-maximum of 30% of the cost of pre-school provision. [This has been a school provision. [This has been a legal requirement since 1993].legal requirement since 1993].

Poorer parents can be subsidised up Poorer parents can be subsidised up to the total cost of this type of to the total cost of this type of provision.provision.

Slide 24

DENMARKDENMARK

Pre-Primary training of social Pre-Primary training of social educators (Paedagoger) [1]educators (Paedagoger) [1]

• Since 1992 all pre-school educators Since 1992 all pre-school educators have followed a training course have followed a training course which leads to a BA degreewhich leads to a BA degree

• Educator training takes place in Educator training takes place in ‘Educator’ training colleges‘Educator’ training colleges

• The training course lasts 41 months The training course lasts 41 months [Three and a half years][Three and a half years]

Slide 25

• The students are required to The students are required to undertake three placementsundertake three placements

11stst placement – 12 weeks placement – 12 weeks

22ndnd placement – 6 months placement – 6 months

33rdrd placement - 6 months placement - 6 months

Note:Note: The students are not paid for The students are not paid for the 1 the 1stst placement.. placement..

Either the 2Either the 2ndnd or 3 or 3rdrd placement may placement may be taken abroad.be taken abroad.

Slide 26

DENMARKDENMARK

Pre-Primary training of social Pre-Primary training of social educators (Paedagoger) [11]educators (Paedagoger) [11]

• Students can specialise in various areas Students can specialise in various areas relating to children, adolescents and relating to children, adolescents and adults [Pre-school, After school and Youth adults [Pre-school, After school and Youth work]work]

• In their final year students are required to In their final year students are required to submit an extended essay/project submit an extended essay/project (nominal duration 10 weeks) which is then (nominal duration 10 weeks) which is then assessed through an individual assessed through an individual examination.examination.

Slide 27

• The subject areas studied are as The subject areas studied are as follows:follows:

(a)(a) Education and Psychology (30%)Education and Psychology (30%)(b)(b) Social Theory and Health Education Social Theory and Health Education

(20%)(20%)(c)(c) Cultural and Physical Activities Cultural and Physical Activities

[Danish; Music; Sport & Movement; [Danish; Music; Sport & Movement; Craft & Design; Drama; Ecology etc] Craft & Design; Drama; Ecology etc] (40%)(40%)

(d)(d) Communication [Organisational Communication [Organisational Theory/Leadership] (10%)Theory/Leadership] (10%)

Slide 28

DENMARKDENMARK

Only one fifth of the entrants to social Only one fifth of the entrants to social educator training have to be school educator training have to be school leavers with the traditional University leavers with the traditional University entrance requirement. This leads to a entrance requirement. This leads to a large number of mature students being large number of mature students being recruited.recruited.

Social Educators are paid at the same rate Social Educators are paid at the same rate as Primary Teachers and perhaps because as Primary Teachers and perhaps because of this approximately 20% of those of this approximately 20% of those recruited are men. Promotional prospects recruited are men. Promotional prospects in the Public Service are good.in the Public Service are good.

Slide 29

The demand for places for this The demand for places for this degree is very high with only about degree is very high with only about one fifth of those applying gaining a one fifth of those applying gaining a place.place.

The pre-school teacher union BUPL is The pre-school teacher union BUPL is very strong.very strong.

Slide 30

DENMARKDENMARK

In addition to social educators there In addition to social educators there are also childcare assistants to help are also childcare assistants to help them.them.

These childcare assistants have the These childcare assistants have the opportunity to take the BA degree on opportunity to take the BA degree on a part time basis.a part time basis.

Slide 31

DENMARKDENMARK

The Danish University of EducationThe Danish University of Education

(Danmarks Paedagogiske Universitet)(Danmarks Paedagogiske Universitet)

• Founded 1Founded 1stst July 2000 July 2000• Objective is to carry out research on Objective is to carry out research on

all aspects of educationall aspects of education• Also to offer M.Ed. And Ph.D. Also to offer M.Ed. And Ph.D.

programmesprogrammes

Slide 32

In-service courses are offered by:In-service courses are offered by:

(a) BUPL (Pre-primary teacher union)(a) BUPL (Pre-primary teacher union)

(b) The Danish University of (b) The Danish University of EducationEducation

Slide 33

[7][7]

ConclusionConclusion


Regardless of our views on Denmark, and I favour their system, we must find a way Regardless of our views on Denmark, and I favour their system, we must find a way in Ireland to reduce the cost of caring for young children. When it costs Euro 200 per in Ireland to reduce the cost of caring for young children. When it costs Euro 200 per week to have your baby looked after in South Dublin it is not “rocket science” to work week to have your baby looked after in South Dublin it is not “rocket science” to work out that many parents (usually women) on average wages or less will find it to their out that many parents (usually women) on average wages or less will find it to their economic advantage to receive social welfare payments rather than working. This is economic advantage to receive social welfare payments rather than working. This is a recipe for economic disaster.a recipe for economic disaster.

Slide 34

IRELAND - [THE FUTURE]IRELAND - [THE FUTURE]Free Pre-School YearFree Pre-School Year

Children born on or before 2Children born on or before 2ndnd February February 2005 and 302005 and 30thth June 2005 will be eligible June 2005 will be eligible to enter the scheme in January 2010.to enter the scheme in January 2010.

A higher capitation grant of €75 per A higher capitation grant of €75 per week is available where the pre-school week is available where the pre-school leader holds a Level 7 or Level 8 Early leader holds a Level 7 or Level 8 Early Years education related qualification.Years education related qualification.


The Free Pre-School Year is a very positive development and is I hope the start of this The Free Pre-School Year is a very positive development and is I hope the start of this government addressing seriously the issue of childcare and “early years” education.government addressing seriously the issue of childcare and “early years” education.

I have been convinced for many years that if we are to improve the status of pre-I have been convinced for many years that if we are to improve the status of pre-schools in Ireland the Government must subsidise the supply side of childcare as the schools in Ireland the Government must subsidise the supply side of childcare as the local authorities and the government do in Denmark. (The Irish government, for local authorities and the government do in Denmark. (The Irish government, for example, have no problem subsidising the supply side of our approx. 3,200 Primary example, have no problem subsidising the supply side of our approx. 3,200 Primary Schools most of which are legally private schools under the trusteeship of either the Schools most of which are legally private schools under the trusteeship of either the Catholic or Protestant Bishops). I hope that the Government will use the Free Pre-Catholic or Protestant Bishops). I hope that the Government will use the Free Pre-School year as a starting point and put in place a comprehensive, well paid, high School year as a starting point and put in place a comprehensive, well paid, high quality system of Early Childhood Education and Care in this country.quality system of Early Childhood Education and Care in this country.

The Free Pre-School Year is, as I say, a very positive development (although, at the The Free Pre-School Year is, as I say, a very positive development (although, at the moment, the capitation fee is too low but will, hopefully, improve in the future). moment, the capitation fee is too low but will, hopefully, improve in the future). Another very positive development is the extension of paid maternity leave in recent Another very positive development is the extension of paid maternity leave in recent years. It is my strong belief that the best place for a child is with his or her parent in years. It is my strong belief that the best place for a child is with his or her parent in their first year of life and we as a society have taken considerable steps towards that their first year of life and we as a society have taken considerable steps towards that goal. It would be my hope that future Irish Governments will extend paid goal. It would be my hope that future Irish Governments will extend paid maternity/parental leave to one year and then by offering a free childcare place for maternity/parental leave to one year and then by offering a free childcare place for the one to three year olds they will achieve (with the Free Pre-School Year) a high the one to three year olds they will achieve (with the Free Pre-School Year) a high quality, comprehensive, universal system for all. (I would have no objection to the quality, comprehensive, universal system for all. (I would have no objection to the rich in our society having to pay up to 30% of the cost, like the Danes).rich in our society having to pay up to 30% of the cost, like the Danes).

Slide 35

IRELAND – [THE FUTURE]IRELAND – [THE FUTURE]

SioltaSiolta

AistearAistear


Two further bright lights for the future are Siolta and Aistear the agreed Quality Two further bright lights for the future are Siolta and Aistear the agreed Quality Standards for the Education and Care of the three to six year old child and the Standards for the Education and Care of the three to six year old child and the agreed National Curriculum for the zero to six year old child. As the Early Childhood agreed National Curriculum for the zero to six year old child. As the Early Childhood Education and Care Sector are all agreed it should not be difficult, as resources Education and Care Sector are all agreed it should not be difficult, as resources become available, to move the agenda for both forward.become available, to move the agenda for both forward.

Slide 36

IRELANDIRELAND[The Future][The Future]

B.A. (ECS)B.A. (ECS)PrimaryDegree

3 years

MastersDegree 2 years

1 2 3 4 5 6 7


Under the Bologna Agreement, which Ireland has signed up to, we will, according to Under the Bologna Agreement, which Ireland has signed up to, we will, according to the “the “Economist”,Economist”, have to restructure our degree programmes by 2015 so that have to restructure our degree programmes by 2015 so that undergraduate degrees last for three years and masters degrees for two years. Under undergraduate degrees last for three years and masters degrees for two years. Under this system I would see that the BA (ECS) would provide the foundation and that this system I would see that the BA (ECS) would provide the foundation and that specialised Masters Degrees would follow.specialised Masters Degrees would follow.

Slide 37

Master DegreeSocial Work[Placement]

Masters DegreePrimary Teaching

[Placement]

Masters DegreeYouth & Community Work

[Placement]

Masters DegreePre-Primary Educator

[Placement]

Masters Degree Psychology[Placement]

Masters DegreeAfter School Care

[Placement]

For example a 2 year Masters Degree could be:

1 2

3 4

5 6

ETC.7


Some of the Masters Degrees could be as follows. It is worth noting that in UCC we Some of the Masters Degrees could be as follows. It is worth noting that in UCC we already have in place the Master’s Degree in Social Work and the Master’s Degree in already have in place the Master’s Degree in Social Work and the Master’s Degree in Youth and Community Work and it would not be difficult to develop the remainder.Youth and Community Work and it would not be difficult to develop the remainder.

The demand for such courses can be easily seen from the graduate survey which I The demand for such courses can be easily seen from the graduate survey which I mentioned earlier.mentioned earlier.

FINALLY!FINALLY!

Slide 38

If all Early Childhood workers had If all Early Childhood workers had Masters Degrees it would be difficult Masters Degrees it would be difficult for the Labour Court to argue that for the Labour Court to argue that they should be paid less than other they should be paid less than other equally qualified professions.equally qualified professions.

This is the goal that we must work This is the goal that we must work towards.towards.

slide 1 the way forward for the ‘early years’ valedictory lecture by dr. francis douglas friday...

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