19 November 2015
Dear Sir/Madam,
The Early Years Toybox project is an early childhood programme aimed at improving
long-term outcomes for Traveller children and their families. Funded by the department
of Education, the programme uses home visiting, a focus on transitions, the
development of inclusive early childhood practice and advocacy strategies to ensure
that young Traveller children and their families have access to high quality early
education, formal schooling and family support.
Toybox in conjunction with SureStart are producing a pictorial child development book
from pre-birth to 3 months. It is hoped the first book will be launched at the Early Years
50th anniversary 2016 Conference / AGM. This book will support all parents including
those with literacy barriers interact with their children and improve the long term
outcomes of children. Through simple illustrations it will provide practical tips through
play actions to parents, grandparents, carers etc. on how to stimulate brain
development in children during these important stages of learning. Research tells us
that positive early experiences can translate into children showing readiness to learn
and improve their long term well-being.
We are currently seeking an artist to illustrate this book. We will need a number of
illustrations drawn to support the book which will focus on a child from pre-birth to 3
months. Unfortunately we are unable to offer remuneration however, this is an
excellent opportunity, enhancing professional development and may be recorded on
your Curriculum Vita for future opportunities. Moreover, you will be acknowledged as
illustrator on the book and will receive a few complimentary copies for your portfolio.
If you are interested please complete the attached Expression of Interest Form and
return to Joan Bradley, Early Years the organisation for young children, Unit 1 The
Glenaden Complex, Trench Road, Derry/Londonderry, BT47 2US or email to
joanb@early-years.org.
Yours faithfully
Shirley Gillespie
Toybox Team Leader
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORM
Toybox Child Development Book illustrator - Pre-birth to Three Months
Name:Address:-
Email:Telephone Number:-
Preferred method of contact:Where are you currently studying /working?
Please state any relevant experience/skills/qualifications you have, necessary to
complete the task:-
Capacity to do this work – what is your expected time frame for completion:-
Do you have relevant portfolio items that can be viewed:YES
No
Please return by 14 January 2016 to Joan Bradley, Early Years - the organisation for young
children, Unit 1, The Glenaden Complex, Trench Road, Derry/Londonderry, BT47 2US or
email to joanb@early-years.org.
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