Pathways to Professionalism in Early Childhood Education and Care is concerned with a growing interest from policy and research in the professionalisation of the early childhood workforce. Illustrated by in-depth case studies of innovative and sustainable pathways to professionalisation, it recognises the importance of a systemic approach to professionalisation across all levels of the early childhood. The authors of this wide-ranging book share insights of professionalism from various European countries and suggest that professionalism in early childhood unfolds best in a ‘competent system’.

This book considers a broad range of international issues including

• Continuous professional support and quality
• Early Childhood education and care staff with different qualifications in professional development processes.
• How personal attitudes and competence of educators are related to the wider system of competent teams, leadership, collaboration across services and competent governance
• From research to policy: the case of early childhood and care

Pathways to Professionalism in Early Childhood Education and Care is a crucial and fascinating read for professionals working in the sector and contributes to broadening views on what professionalism in early childhood can mean within a ‘competent system’.