Ms Rachael Hedger

Rachael is a lecturer in Early Childhood Education at Flinders University. She is Course Coordinator for the Early Childhood Initial Teacher Education degrees and Academic Professional Experience Co-ordinator for Early Childhood. Rachael also co-ordinates and teaches the Early Childhood Play, Learning and Development topics.

Prior to working at Flinders University, Rachael was Preschool Room Leader in a Long Day Childcare service. She has also taught in primary schools, both in Australia and in the UK. Prior to emigrating to Australia, Rachael taught in several primary schools and nurseries, teaching Preschool and Reception - Year 6. She also has prior experience of working in Special Education and Montessori centres.

Rachael is a PhD candidate, researching children's scientific drawings and their impact on science learning.

Over recent years, Rachael has collaborated with the DfE and Catholic Education on several STEM projects, focussing on children's STEM learning through play-based inquiry. These projects have focussed on Professional Development for Early Years Educators and enhanced STEM teaching in South Australia.

Rachael is dedicated to student success and works to ensure that the Early Childhood Pre-Service Teachers at Flinders University feel well supported, informed and confident in their studies as they work to educate confident and capable young children in the 21st century.