A relationship-based approach to nurturing the mental health of young children and their families in the Early Years

About the Project

Over recent years, the decline in children’s mental health has become increasingly obvious and deeply concerning. This reflects a national trend and a mounting anxiety about the wellbeing of those who educate and care for our children. In response, one non-profit organisation has been commissioned by Public Health to deliver an innovative project aimed at supporting the health and wellbeing of our youngest children.

Underpinned by social pedagogical values, this organisation is working closely with education and care practitioners to promote healthier parent-child relationships, with the ultimate goal of giving infants the best possible start in life. We are keen to investigate the impact of this programme and would like to appoint a researcher who is empathetic to these aims.

You will be supervised by experts in social pedagogy, early childhood education and care, and mental health, and will have the opportunity to join a vibrant research community to enhance your PhD research experience.

Supervisory Team

• Director of Studies: Dr Emma Laurence, Institute of Education
• Supervisors: Dr Carla Solvason, Institute of Education
• Research Group: Social Pedagogy Research Group

Application Process

To begin the application process please go to: https://www.worc.ac.uk/research/research-degrees/applying-for-a-phd/.

The Interview

All successful applicants will be offered an interview with the proposed Supervisory Team. You will be contacted by a member of the Doctoral School Team to find a suitable date. Interviews can be conducted in person or over Microsoft Teams.

Funding your PhD

For information about Doctoral Loans please visit: https://www.worc.ac.uk/study/feesand-finance/doctoral-loans.aspx

During your PhD you can access the Research Conference Support Scheme to support the costs of presenting your research at an external conference.

For further details, please contact Dr Emma Laurence, emma.laurence@worc.ac.uk, who will be Director of Studies for this opportunity.