With the rapid change experienced by the Early Years Workforce over recent times, this book considers what constitutes professionalization in the sector, and what this means in practice. Bringing a critical perspective to the developing knowledge and understanding of early years practitioners at various stages of their professional development, it draws attention to key themes and issues.

Chapters are written by leading authorities, and provide case studies, question and discussion points to facilitate critical thinking.

Topics covered include:

- constructions of professional identities

- men in the early years

- multi-disciplinary working in the early years

- professionalization in the nursery

- early childhood leadership and policy

Written in an accessible style and relevant to all levels of early years courses, the book is highly relevant to those studying at Masters level, and has staggered levels of Further Reading, that encourage reflection and progression.

The Changing Face of Professionalism in the Early Years - Linda Miller and Carrie Cable
PART ONE: LEADING, MANAGING AND NEW PROFESSIONAL IDENTITIES
Leading and Managing in the Early Years - Mary E. Whalley
Challenging Identities: A Case for Leadership - Christine Woodrow
Early Years Professionalism: Issues, Challenges and Opportunities - Dorothy McMillan and Glenda Walsh
Child Care Practitioners and the Process of Professionalization - Jan Peeters and Michel Vandenbroeck
Working in Multidisciplinary Teams - Sue Greenfield
PART TWO: TOWARDS A NEW PROFESSIONALISM IN THE EARLY YEARS
Constructions of Professional Identity - Gill McGillivray
Contested Constructions of Professionalism within the Nursery - Jayne Osgood
Where Are the Men? A Critical Discussion of Male Absence in the Early Years - Guy Roberts-Holmes and Simon Brownhill
Towards Professionalism/s - Iris Duhn
A New Professionalism - Carrie Cable and Linda Miller