Playful Researchers testimonials

Here is a selection of feedback from some of the organisations and colleagues with whom we have worked

In addition to our research projects, we are also grateful to have been invited to provide professional learning opportunities and to engage with the following organisations:

Early Education
Falkirk Council
Clackmannanshire Council
Institute for Situational Awareness (Berlin)
ScrapAntics
The Scottish Government
Children in Scotland
Home-Start UK

Talking Mats

Fachhochschule Potsdam, University of Applied Sciences

Indiana University Kokomo

Laura Jarvie, Headteacher

This project with Lynsey and Katie as The Playful Researchers has really made me reflect on what we do as a school and how important it is to gather the voices of our ASN learners. I think this is an approach that needs to be shared more widely particularly as so many schools are struggling to meet the needs of their ASN learners.

This project seemed to make the children feel valued and listened to – during it I saw children move around the school more confidently and I even heard children speak who don’t usually communicate verbally.

Being involved in this project has really raised the profile of ‘Leading by Listening’ across the whole school. We are talking about it more and thinking about different ways to listen to our mainstream learners too. In recent SLT meetings we are talking about how we need to make sure our ASN learners are part of shaping change across the school… Based on our work with the Playful Researchers, we are using it as a catalyst and have submitted a bid for an ASN innovation fund so that we can further develop the environment, based on the children’s perspectives.

“From the initial 2 sessions, the biggest and best impact has already happened which is the motivation and excitement of staff. Lynsey has managed to inspire staff to work together to develop their play pedagogy and be committed to ensuring our young people have quality experiences. I am looking forward to the next stages of gathering evidence, responsive planning and purposeful adult interactions. ”

Julie McKenna, Headteacher

“Working with Dr Burke has already had such a positive impact on the development of Play in our school. The input we have received has increased our own knowledge and understanding and as group we have a strategic plan to move forward. Dr Burke has helped us involve our children and families on our play journey and we re looking forward to the rest of the session.”

Alison Given, Principal Teacher

“This week had a fantastic range of resources for the children to experience. It allowed children to express themselves through different mediums. This project has opened my eyes to the multitude of ways to hear children's voices and also makes me want to research into Ateliers and Reggio more.”

Lynette Hendry, P2 Class Teacher

“I will continue to implement this multi-sensory approach... It also gives the opportunity to put the children's ideas into practice. Children will be able to see how their ideas can come to life, know that they are listened to and their ideas are respected.”

Nicole McMillan - P1 Class Teacher

Morag Carson, Headteacher

We have recently been working with Lynsey and the Playful Researchers from the University of Dundee. What we’re seeing is the beginning of a really solid plan moving forward, based on the children’s voices and with the support of our parents who are really keen that their children’s voices are listened to and acted upon. We will now be able to make an impact on the learning environment and experiences just now, but also to be able to sustain that in the future.

The staff team have said that they have a much greater understanding and had their awareness raised of the multitude of ways where there are opportunities to listen to children’s perspectives, communicated in multi-sensory ways. I am hoping this will continue and look forward to seeing how children’s voices can now be at the heart of what we do here, influencing change.

“I am much more aware of the importance of listening to children's voices in a variety of different ways and will take this approach forward. Children will hopefully feel valued and listened to and will be excited to see their ideas come to life!”

Julie McLaren - P1 Class Teacher

“Children will understand that we are listening to them and trying to get the play space they want.”

Laura Martin, EYO