معرفی
Hayley Preston-Smith is an Assistant Professor in Primary and Early Years Education at the University of Sussex's School of Education and Social Work. She holds a PhD in Education (in progress until mid-2025) and has advanced qualifications including an MA in Early Years Education and an MSc in Social Research Methods. Her research focuses on early years practitioners' conceptualizations of quality interactions with children aged 3-5, particularly during and post-COVID-19, using phenomenological and Foucauldian frameworks.
Education Background:
- BSc Hons Early Childhood Studies (Canterbury Christ Church University, 2013–2016)
- MA Early Years Education (University of Sussex, 2016–2017)
- MSc Social Research Methods (University of Sussex, 2018–2019)
- PhD in Education (University of Sussex, 2019–2024)
- Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
Research Interests:
Her work emphasizes UK early years education, social-emotional development, qualitative methodologies, and practitioner perspectives. She explores how pandemic disruptions have shaped educators' understanding of 'quality interactions' and advocates for practitioner voices in educational discourse.
Awards and Memberships:
- TACTYC Student Reflections Award (runner-up, 2019)
- Member of Chartered College of Teaching, Sightlines Initiative, Early Education, and TACTYC
Teaching and Supervision:
Currently teaches modules like 'Educating the Whole Child' and 'Engaging Young Learners' on the BA Primary and Early Years Education program. Supervises undergraduate and Master's dissertations in early years education. Previously supported doctoral researchers through the New Researcher Support Group.
Labs and Collaborations:
Associated with the Centre for Teaching and Learning Research (CTLR) and the Centre for Innovation and Research in Childhood and Youth (CIRCY).
