Johnathan Crockett - Early Years Teacher at Tudor Grange Primary Academy -

Meon Vale and a winner of the National Early Years Teacher of the Year Awards 2024

A passionate Early Years Teacher with over 15 years of teaching experience, Jonathan recently received the prestigious title of National Early Years Teacher of the Year 2024 in the Men in the Early Years category, in recognition of his dedication to young learners. It's a culmination of years spent nurturing young minds and fostering a love of learning in a fun and creative environment.

Johnathan began his teaching journey as a Teaching Assistant (TA) in a reception class. His passion for working with children, which he nurtured through his earlier football coaching career, fueled his desire to become a qualified teacher. Since then, his career has taken him across various schools in Northamptonshire, Warwickshire, Hertfordshire, and Kent. But one constant remained – his unwavering love for Early Years education.

"From day one, I knew that I wanted to work in Early Years." he says. "The fun, excitement, imagination, and most importantly, the incredible development and progress you see is simply unmatched by any other year group. Plus," he adds with a chuckle, "I'm just a big kid at heart, so I fit in perfectly!"

This enthusiasm translates into engaging learning environments. Johnathan thrives on using his creativity to design stimulating spaces where children can learn, interact, and feel a strong sense of belonging. His dedication extends beyond the classroom walls. During lockdown, Johnathan, known online as MrC_EYFS, created captivating maths, phonics, and story videos for children and families on YouTube and social media. These resources, originally intended for his own class, became a valuable tool for families across the country – a testament to the impact of his innovative spirit.

However, Johnathan's impact goes beyond innovative learning methods and fun activities. He takes pride in being part of the small yet crucial 2% of male educators in the Early Years sector. He believes exposure to diverse backgrounds, including gender identity, is essential for a child's development. "It's rare to see men in Early Years," he reflects, "but it's incredibly important to offer that positive role model, especially for families with limited male figures in their lives."

Johnathan's story is an inspiration to aspiring educators, particularly men considering a career in Early Years. His passion for developing young minds, coupled with his commitment to inclusivity, makes him a true champion for this crucial stage in a child's development.