Mentoring and Coaching in Early Childhood Education - Annotated by Michael Gasper & Rosie Walker (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

This book provides an introduction to the theory and practice of mentoring, coaching and supervision in the context of early childhood education and care. Written by a team of scholars from the UK, Ireland, South Africa, Australia and the USA the book includes a range of annotated case studies to exemplify important issues from around the world. The chapters are organized around four key principles:
- Embedding professional one to one support within the setting
- Maximising performance and professional development
- Self and collaborative reflection for leadership
- Managing and leading change
Topics covered include discussion of the differences and similarities between mentoring, coaching and supervision; management and leadership in early childhood settings; safeguarding and child protection. Alongside the annotated case studies each chapter also includes a summary of key points and questions for further discussion.

Review Quotes

This assemblage of chapters from diverse international contexts provides multiple opening points to consider how theory and research might work together in practice in the arena of coaching and mentoring. Work undertaken in the early years is recognized as deeply complex, deserving of ongoing professional development focused on transformative practice.
Laurie Kocher, PhD Program Coordinator and Instructor Capilano University, Canada

This book provides an invaluable study into the role of mentoring and coaching within an early years context. Part One explores the differences between mentoring and coaching, and the theory behind this. Part Two offers a range of national and international case studies which enable the reader to consider this within a practical context. An excellent addition to the area of early childhood education.
Janet Harvell, Senior Lecturer, University of Worcester, UK

This is a timely publication. For those working with young children, the workplace has become increasingly fraught and complex, with support needed to maintain a professional outlook and joy in their chosen profession. Providing an introduction to coaching and mentoring in the early childhood sector, this collection of case studies invites readers to consider possibilities for their own situations. Speaking from a range of countries and perspectives, chapter authors offer diverse perspectives on this important component of professional development. With a focus on respectful relationships and active listening, a range of issues and approaches are considered. Accessible and interesting, this publication has the potential to both inform and inspire. It should be a valuable addition to any professional library.
Alma Fleet, Associate Professor, Macquarie University, Australia

About the Author

Michael Gasper is a self-employed Early Years consultant and an associate lecturer at Birmingham City University, UK.
Rosie Walker is a Senior Lecturer within the Department for Children and Families, School of Education at University of Worcester, UK.