**SOLD OUT** A Morning of Practitioner Inquiry – Infant Pedagogy

Gowrie NSW invites early childhood colleagues to our Erskineville Early Education and Care Centre for a special opportunity to participate in an observation visit where we will share our approach of respectful relationships and empowerment in infant pedagogy.

This unique opportunity includes a dialogue session with Gowrie NSW Pedagogical Coach, Fiona Veld-Brown, along with Erskineville’s Infant Pedagogical Lead, Shaila Martinez.  The morning will provide space for you to learn how the theory and philosophy of respectful relationships, sensitive observation and empowerment are translated into quality practices with infants.

  • The program will include:
    • briefing on sensitive and respectful observation
    • observation time in the infant rooms
    • reflection and dialogue session with Gowrie NSW Pedagogical Coach, Fiona Veld-Brown
    • a story of practice presentation with our Erskineville Infant Pedagogical Lead, Shaila Martinez
    • time for questions with Fiona and Shaila Martinez.
  • No future dates available.

About the presenters

  • Fiona Veld-Brown
    Fiona Veld-Brown

    Fiona Veld-Brown has over two decades of experience in early childhood education, much of her career has been spent a Centre Director in Sydney, where she developed a profound respect for infant and toddler pedagogy, supported by the RIE® Foundations and Pikler training. In recent years, Fiona led a professional learning team for a growing organisation, empowering educators with the tools and knowledge needed to enhance their practice. Fiona's approach is rooted in enriching pedagogical practice through collaborative reflection, intentional dialogue, and coaching, always guided by research and meaningful relationships.

  • Shaila Martinez pic
    Shaila Martinez

    Shaila Martinez has worked in the early childhood sector for over 15 years. She holds a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) and has spent the past five years at Gowrie Erskineville NSW, specialising in the infant space and supporting children from birth to one year of age. 

    Throughout her career, Shaila has been mentored by highly experienced early childhood professionals who have nurtured her passion for working with infants and toddlers. Through handson experience and ongoing professional learning, she has developed a strong foundation in respectful and responsive caregiving practices. 

    Shaila’s teaching philosophy has been deeply influenced by the principles of RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers). These approaches have guided her to slow down, observe with intention and build meaningful relationships with infants whilst honouring their competence, individuality and capacity to participate in their own learning. 

    At Gowrie Erskineville, Shaila is part of an infant program committed to reflective practice and professional inquiry. She currently contributes to a practitioner inquiry project in which external early childhood professionals are invited to observe the practices implemented within the infant space. This work supports shared learning, strengthens reflective practice and promotes the ongoing development of respectful infant care within the broader early childhood community. 

    Shaila remains deeply passionate about creating calm, responsive and respectful environments where infants feel safe, capable, and valued. She is committed to fostering spaces that empower the youngest learners to grow confidently as active participants in their own development.