Early Years students at South Eastern Regional College (SERC) enjoyed an inspiring and informative session on the work of the Toybox Project - the organisation for young children.
Project Manager Judith Thompson introduced students from the Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies (validated by Queen’s University Belfast), the Level 3 Diploma, and the Level 2 Traineeship in Children’s Care, Learning and Development, to the vital work the Toybox Project undertakes to support Traveller and Roma children aged birth to four years. Judith outlined how the service provides high-quality early education and family support, drawing on the HighScope approach - a well established, research-based model of Early Years education that focuses on active learning, consistent daily routines, and strong adult–child interaction- to enhance early learning experiences.
During the session, Judith demonstrated how Toybox practitioners use play-based home visits to engage children and families. She brought along a range of resources used in the project, including natural wooden toys, books, cause-and-effect play items, and everyday low-cost materials such as cardboard tubes. Students were able to explore these materials first-hand and connect them to their own practice, noting similarities with approaches such as Reggio Emilia.
Judith also spoke candidly about the significant barriers Traveller and Roma families often face when accessing education and health services. She highlighted how Toybox supports families to overcome these challenges, including helping them access provision and assessments for children with special educational needs or disabilities.
Mandy Flavin, Lecturer in Early Years said, “SERC was delighted to welcome Judith to campus, and the students greatly appreciated the opportunity to connect theory with real-world practice through this engaging and meaningful presentation. The talk offered valuable links to current course content, particularly for Foundation Degree students studying modules such as Quality Provision and Learning Through Play. Level 2 and Level 3 learners also benefited, with the session reinforcing key themes within their Child Development units.”
Apply now for Early Years courses commencing September 2026.
