Emma Davis
Department of Education
Senior Lecturer
Academic qualifications
MEd, PGCert - Higher Education, PGCert in Leading Early Years, Early Years Teacher Status, BA
I鈥檓 passionate about early years education, with expertise in early childhood development, research methods, ethical practices, and leadership in the sector. I teach on our Early Childhood Studies and Childhood and Education Studies degree courses, as well as our MA Education course.
Before moving into higher education teaching, I worked as a Teaching Assistant, Early Years Teacher, and Nursery Manager, and I sat on the advisory board for a local Children鈥檚 Centre. One of my proudest moments was leading a nursery team in their journey from an 鈥榠nadequate鈥� inspection rating to 鈥榦utstanding鈥�. I鈥檝e managed big teams, handled inspections, policy shifts, and family support, plus completed Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) training placements. I also collaborated on Big Brum鈥檚 鈥楽chools of Recovery鈥� project, focusing on teacher development. All of my experiences inform how my UCB classroom operates, as I regularly draw on real-world case studies to help students connect theory with everyday practice.
As dissertation lead at UCB, I bring fresh research insights into lessons, showing students how to analyse data, write critically, and reflect ethically. I鈥檓 currently working towards a PhD exploring early years leadership through practitioner stories, ethical ways of sharing experiences, and inclusive representation. I鈥檝e written for Nursery World, the British Educational Research Association (BERA) Blog, and Teach Early Years, and I鈥檝e presented at numerous conferences, including the University of Worcester鈥檚 Education Conference.
A myth I like to bust is that Early Years teaching is just 鈥榩laying all day鈥�. In fact, it鈥檚 skilled work that requires a deep understanding of child development, reflection, and strong relationships. I encourage my students to ask questions early, take up all that UCB has to offer, and look after themselves.