With more than 26 years’ experience in early education, it’s no surprise that Louis Bradfield, Early Childhood Teacher at Maridahdi Community School, Toowoomba, is regularly asked to share his thinking and experiences at conferences and workshops. Louis has gained quite a following within the profession and is known for his outspoken ideals.
“I always wanted to work in early childhood education. My Mum was an assistant within a state preschool. It was from then that I started to formulate a belief about what was needed in that sector.”
Louis is quick to point out that although his relationship with early childhood education has always been passionate, it is not without its frustrations.
“It has been a bit of a love/hate relationship as I disagree so strongly with some of the paradigms being thrown around and ideas about what is best for the child. Often, I think when people talk about what is best for the child they are really talking about what is best for the adults around those children,” Louis says.
“When I first started I had this illusion that children were respected. In my experience this is not the case. It is more about control, conformity and pliability. Philosophically, I strongly disagree with this and Maridahdi has provided me with a space to explore other paradigms. I am able to explore new ideas and give the energy I think children deserve.