As 2019 comes to an end, I reflect back on two decades of being in the early years and childcare profession. I have loved every bit of it and I keep loving it. Apart from family, I have jealously guarded this God-given profession and not taken it for granted.

Early years has been leading on topics such as mental health, recycling, prejudice , identity, race, discrimination and ethnicity. With this, I can carry out training and speak on any of the topics. My first qualification was Certificate in Early Years, presented to me by David Lammy. 20 years later, I have added six more qualifications including several degrees, several short courses, which is part and parcel of being in the profession.

I have been inspired by several sheroes and heroes such as Penny Tassoni, whose book was the first text book I bought and have kept to this day. I feel it is still the best introductory early years book. She and Jane Elliott continue to be inspirational leaders in the profession. I cannot forget the different psychologists and their theories that have made an impactful discovery for early childhood and parenting.

Thank you to the educators that have taught me, the professionals I have worked with, the parents/carers that have trusted me and most especially, the children/learners that have inspired me. Looking forward to a new decade with professional excitement, minus political agendas, and remember to never stop playing and being a child.