Mandy Andrews

Biography

Qualifications Background: I came out of University with a joint honours comparative degree in Literature and Art and have continued playfully comparing experiences ever since! I came to Plymouth from a varied career background and range of experiences mostly involving children, young people, arts, environment and education. After completing my BA Arts degree I progressed to youth work, then ran play services and an adventure playground in Aylesbury Vale, Buckinghamshire, before entering the world of education in the more formal sense, both learning at a higher level myself whilst also teaching adults. My dissertation for my first MA was on Public Provision of Play Services for Children, and my second MA on Power and Leadership in Children's Centres. Included in my life journey are periods of time running pre-school, nurseries, play services and a Children's Centre. I have also spent time as a private consultant supporting business development in the Arts and Voluntary Sectors and as an Environmental Projects Manager. From 2007 I was a Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood at the University of Worcester but headed West to join Plymouth University in January 2014. I am currently researching Children's Outdoor Play Close to Home for my PhD.

Research Interest

Faculty of Arts & Humanities)