Caron Carter

I am a researcher and teacher in the field of Early Childhood Education. Prior to joining Sheffield Hallam University in 2007, I was an Early Years Teacher in a Nursery Infant School and a Primary School for over ten years. Five of these years were as a Deputy Headteacher and one as an Acting Headteacher. During this time, I had leadership responsibilities including English and Inclusion. These experiences together with post-graduate study for the National Professional Qualification for Headship and an MA in Early Childhood Education from Sheffield University inspired me to apply to Sheffield Hallam University for a lectureship in 2007. In 2013 I completed my PhD under the supervision of Professor Cathy Nutbrown. My research interests focus on children's friendships. Much of my work has involved looking at ways to develop a listening culture for the voice of the child to be heard and providing opportunities for children to exercise their agency. A critical element of his activity is ensuring that my research impacts on school practice. I am currently researching how schools support children's friendships and also the impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on well-being and friendships. I am also part of a team from Sheffield Hallam University researching for Save the Children on a project entitled 'Children's Communities'. This is looking at improving outcomes for children in specific areas including, school readiness, friendship, play, transitions. Previous roles include: Acting Headteacher in a Sheffield Infant School Deputy Headteacher in two Sheffield Nursery Infant Schools Assistant Headteacher in a Sheffield Primary School Class teacher in a Sheffield Primary School