Sandra Dumitrescu

Overview

Sandra is a registered Health Play Specialist having worked primarily within health care settings for the last 22 years. Her work has taken her overseas to support children in institutions in Romania, working collaboratively with the support staff, as well as setting up a hospice for children with HIV/AIDS.

In 1995, on her return from Romania, Sandra took up the role as 'Specialist Lecturer' for the Hospital Play Specialist course at the College of Care and Early Education in Bristol. In her final year at the college (2001) she was the Programme Leader. From 1998 until 2013, Sandra was employed at Ty Hafan (children's hospice) carrying out various roles, the last one being the Therapeutic Services Manager. She developed an interest in leadership and management and professional development whilst at Ty Hafan and supported the Therapeutic Services team to carry out an action research project, which looked at the leadership qualities required in order to support play practitioners in improving their practice, whilst providing a sustainable play service for the children in their care.

Sandra currently teaches on the Early Childhood Studies pathway of the Education Studies degree, leading the modules on Social and Emotional Development, Health and Well-being, Inclusive Practice in the Early Years and contributing on the Play and Early Learning module. The professionalisation of Early Years practitioners is of key interest, as well as play for children who have profound and complex needs.

Research Publications

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