ABSTRACT
Where appropriate, we have used practitioners’ voices in our writing. At times this has been facilitated by primary research undertaken specically for the book. At other times our privileged positions as lecturers in the eld have enabled us to engage with members of the workforce in order to debate ideas, explore themes or test hypotheses. This way of working has given the book a tangible grounding in reality, which we hope will be recognised by the reader. Additionally, it is hoped that current practitioners will nd comfort, support and validation from the voices within, and that students embarking on a career in the early years will nd inspiration and encouragement in those same voices.
