UWTSD Early Years Lecturers trains educators at Pembrokeshire

31 August 2023

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s Early Years lecturers Paul Darby and Natasha Jones from Childhood, Youth and Education have had a wonderful few days training educators from Pembrokeshire.

Women in raincoats move metal poles and equipment around outdoors.

The training was developed in partnership with Pembrokeshire County Council’s Education and Children’s Services and highlighted how the expertise within the UWTSD, Childhood, Youth and Education discipline in terms of curiosity play-based learning is supporting the development of the Curriculum for Wales.

The training sessions explored learning through play and how the Curriculum for Wales, areas of learning can be supported by enabling adults and engaging environments. The training is built on the expertise within the team linked to play, wellbeing, inclusion and outdoor learning and how these can motivate and inspire children allowing them to flourish.

The participant feedback was excellent. One participant noted:

“Engaging delivery. Relaxed atmosphere allowing for interesting discussions and creativity.”

Another said:

“I thoroughly enjoyed today. I am sent home feeling confident to make this work in our setting. Great fun and inspirational.”

Another added:

“The course gave inspirational ideas for authentic learning in experiences. Allowed us to be creative, active and practical throughout.”

Participants sit on the floor of a classroom working with leaves and twigs gathered from the outdoors.

Lecturer Paul Darby said:

“We had a great experience, sharing knowledge and exploring the educational value of play for young children. The professionals who attended were engaged and curious and keen to develop ideas from the workshop into their teaching practice.”

Lecturer Natasha Jones noted:

“Paul and I have been looking forward to these workshops for weeks, and I think I can speak for both of us in saying they have exceeded our expectations. I was really happy that even with having knowledge and experience in play, I learned a lot from those involved.

“The groups in attendance have engaged in extensive discussion and activity, with everyone getting involved. A really enjoyable experience, and a pleasure to present our perspective on the educational value of play. I look forward to seeing how the content of our workshop is put into practice by these highly skilled practitioners.”

Both are now looking forward to working with more educators in the coming weeks.

If you are interested in finding out more about training opportunities please get in touch:

Paul Darby – paul.darby@uwtsd.ac.uk