Gillian Danby

Before teaching at the University, I gained experience in the voluntary sector, working closely with young children under 5 years old. My career as a childcare practitioner however began in the late 1980s/early 1990s when I worked as a nursery nurse. This hands-on experience provided me with invaluable insights into early childhood development and the critical role of nurturing care during these formative years.

Throughout my career, I have maintained a passion for promoting children’s health and wellbeing. I am particularly interested in understanding how early life experiences shape long-term outcomes, both in terms of physical health and mental wellbeing. Collaborating closely with parents has been a cornerstone of my work, as I firmly believe in the importance of family involvement in fostering positive developmental outcomes for children.

This passion led me to pursue research at master's level, where I focused on the mental health and wellbeing of primary-aged school children. My study examined how schools can implement effective strategies to support children’s mental health and well-being, creating environments where they can thrive emotionally and academically. The findings of my research were published in a peer-reviewed journal, contributing to the wider field of knowledge on child mental health and wellbeing.

Currently, I am in my second year of the Education Doctorate Programme, where my focus is dedicated to addressing contemporary educational issues. This program has provided me with the opportunity to engage with educational research and further explore practices within education.

When I have down time, I like to spend it with my family and walking the dog.