‘Research for Change in Early Years Education’ brings together researchers, practitioners and policymakers at Stranmillis

More than 70 educators, researchers, and policymakers came together at Stranmillis University College on Thursday, 11 September, for Research for Change in Early Years Education, a half-day event that showcased a selection of current research projects in early years education from across the island of Ireland. The gathering, held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., featured researchers from both Stranmillis University College, Belfast, and Atlantic Technological University (ATU) in the Republic of Ireland, combining presentations, discussions, and networking over lunch, with a focus on bridging the gap between research, policy, and practice.

The opening session, Systems, Structures, and Visions for Early Learning, set the tone for the afternoon. Presentations from Stranmillis staff included a review of the national ECCE programme in ROI by Dr Glenda Walsh, an exploration of communities of practice in early years placements from Catriona Rogers, and findings from a study on teachers’ perceptions of quality by Dr Andrea Doherty.

Building on this, the second session, Pedagogy, Play, and Children’s Voices, showcased further early years research from Stranmillis staff. Highlights included Dr Jill Dunn’s work on how digital tools can enhance writing engagement; Jill Magennis’s doctoral research on how peacebuilding pedagogies can support children in divided societies; and a joint presentation by Dr Glenda Walsh and Dr Andrea Doherty on reimagining playfulness in primary classrooms.

The final session, Creativity, Wellbeing, and Sustainability in Early Learning, featured speakers from ATU Galway/Mayo. Presentations included research on an Artist in Residence initiative for early childhood students (Mónica Muñoz Marín), a pilot programme on ocean literacy with young learners (Dr Rita Melia), and new approaches to supporting infant mental health (Dr Mary Skillington). These contributions underscored the role of creativity and wellbeing in building sustainable futures for children.

Speaking about the day, event organiser Dr Glenda Walsh, Head of Early Years and Doctoral Studies at Stranmillis University College, said, “We believe research can drive impactful change, and today’s conversations showed the power of bringing policy, practice, and research into dialogue”.

She added:

The early years are foundational. They shape not only children’s development but the fabric of our society. Events like this are critical in providing a platform for researchers to share their findings, connect with practitioners and policymakers, and ensure that evidence-based approaches influence real-world outcomes. The research we do must not sit on a shelf; it must be shared, challenged, and applied to shape the policies and practices that support our youngest citizens, in Northern Ireland and beyond.

“This event is just the beginning – we want to create an ongoing platform where research continues to inform practice and policy in meaningful ways,” Dr Walsh concluded.