London Institute
of Early Years
A Global Centre for Excellence
International research shows that high quality Early Years Education and Care (EYEC) enhances a child’s potential, which can support them to have the best life chances.
Our purpose is to change the world one child at a time and we can only do that with the right staff and the right pedagogy. The London Institute of Early Years provides high quality education to teachers that is relevant to every child.
Action Research
Early Years teaching is underpinned by solid theories and research, and delivered by staff who consistently identify, share and anchor ways to improve our practice to benefit all children, but especially those from more disadvantaged families and circumstances.
The LEYF pedagogy provides a framework which guides staff to become confident pedagogical leaders and teachers.
By conducting action research through a reflective learning loop, teachers develop the confidence, knowledge and skills to extend and deepen their practice and drive innovation.
A Culture of Reflection
Through many practical situations, staff develop experience which provides guidelines for their next practical actions.
Schon (2001) talks of people acquiring practical competence through reflecting on their own practice while they work, and especially using conversations, dialogue and regular work opportunities, such as supervision and action learning communities.
Common research approaches used by LEYF staff to conduct their research includes:
- discussion and conversations with staff, children and parents
- fieldwork through observation
- oral/telephone interviews – both structured and unstructured
- investigation using existing data sets
- questionnaires, surveys, or focus groups
- analysis of existing materials
- representation through storyboarding the process and findings
- display and other media
- written reports and ethnographic case studies
An example of a report based on action research is our Rethinking Bikes in the Nursery.
Academic publications
Our CEO and trainers are experienced action researchers and published authors. Please click on these links to see a selection of their work.
Dr June O’ Sullivan OBE is a published author, sought-after speaker, and media commentator on Early Years, Social Enterprise, Child Poverty and Sustainability. In 2025, June has completed her PhD in developing sustainability-informed staff in the Early Years.
Nick Corlett leads Green LEYF, our sustainability strategy. Nick is well-known in this area and has co-authored articles and publications, including the book ’50 Fantastic Ideas for Sustainability’.
Consultancy
We partner with other organisations across the sector that share our values to deliver consultancy and training.
Please get in touch with institute@leyf.org.uk to discuss further.
