Rachel Holmes

Professor Rachel Holmes is a Professor of Cultural Studies of Childhood at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), affiliated with the Education and Social Research Institute (ESRI) in the Faculty of Health and Education. Her research focuses on marginalized children’s experiences, creative methodologies, and early childhood policy, particularly through projects like Birth to Three Matters and the Odd Project. She holds roles in the AHRC Peer Review College and co-directs the White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership’s Education, Childhood, and Youth pathway.

Her work combines art-based research with qualitative methods to address exclusionary practices and promote inclusive education. Key contributions include co-editing Working with Young Children in Museums and leading interdisciplinary projects such as Things of the Least (AHRC-funded). Holmes has advised on museum education, prison-based childcare, and policy frameworks, influencing national curricula and professional training.

Her research emphasizes sensory and embodied learning, particularly through collaborations with cultural institutions like Manchester Art Gallery. Holmes supervises doctoral students exploring topics like neurodivergence, transition in education, and arts-informed pedagogy. Her grants include AHRC and ESRC funding for projects addressing childhood exclusion, museum engagement, and early years policy.

Notable impacts include reshaping early years curricula, museum spaces for families, and workforce development through frameworks like the Birth to Three Matters guidelines. Holmes’ work challenges narrow educational policies by advocating for holistic, child-centered approaches rooted in creativity and ethical practice.