I caught up with Shaghaygh Khademian to find out a little more about her: what brought her to Brighter Start and what she’s looking forward to in her new role.
We talked about her ideas, hopes, and even her favourite spot in East London.
First things first, Shaghaygh, what’s one thing you’d like our readers to know about you?
I’ve lived in four different countries: Iran, France, the Czech Republic and the United Arab Emirates.
Now for a slightly trickier question – can you tell us something about yourself that not many people know?
I can only work out mathematical sums, including counting, in Persian.
It’s lovely to have you on the team at Brighter Start – what brought you here?
I’ve been working with the East London Research School for six years and have benefitted immensely from engaging with evidence.
Last year, I worked as a mentor for the Early Years Conversation Project and thoroughly enjoyed working with educators to develop their confidence and practice when engaging with children and supporting their communication and language.
In a nutshell, could you tell us a little about what your role involves?
I’ll be using evidence to deliver training and through a coaching approach, support educators to make an impact on children’s communication and language.
It’s early days, but is there a particular piece of work or idea that you’re already excited about?
Working with educators across Northeast London to use evidence-informed strategies that help develop children’s early communication and language.
What do you think - or hope - you’ll enjoy most about your role?
Reading the latest research on early language and using up-to-date evidence to support the work of Stronger Practice Hubs.
What’s the one difference you’d really like to make through your work?
For educators to know the importance of high-quality interactions and use evidence- informed strategies when communicating with children in their settings.
If I caught up with you in a year’s time, what would you hope to be telling me about?
That I’ve made an impact on children’s communication and language by supporting the educators who directly work with them.
And finally, what’s your favourite spot in East London?
I grew up in Snaresbrook and have lots of fond memories of walking through the forest and wandering around the pond.