Dr Kay Aaronricks is an early childhood education specialist with a strong focus on the professional identity and development of the early years workforce, particularly home-based childminders. Currently Head of the School of Education at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), Kay has progressed from undergraduate student to senior leadership, reflecting her deep commitment to practitioner-led learning and inclusive education.

 

Kay’s early career included roles in private nurseries and as an Ofsted-rated Outstanding Accredited Childminder. Her lived experience in home-based settings underpins her research and advocacy for a sector often overlooked in policy and professional discourse. She has worked extensively with childminders to develop professional learning communities, deliver CPD, and lead action research that amplifies their voices and experiences.

 

A Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, Kay holds a Doctorate in Education and several early years qualifications from ARU. She has taught and led programmes including Early Childhood Studies and Early Years Initial Teacher Training, combining academic knowledge with real-world insight.

 

Kay is the lead researcher on Nourishing Our Future (NOF), a pioneering project investigating the food environment in private, voluntary, and independent (PVI) early years settings across Essex. Commissioned by Essex County Council Public Health, NOF is one of the first studies of its kind in the UK, NOF highlighting the dedication of early years practitioners to children’s nutrition and food education, while also revealing significant challenges around healthy meal provision for under-fives.

 

Kay brings a wealth of expertise in early childhood care, professional development, and research-led practice to any advisory role, with a passion for supporting a sustainable, respected, and well-resourced early years sector.