Dr. Kumaree Padayichie – Ph.D. (Socio-Education), M.Ed. (Socio-Education), B.Ed. (Hons) (Inclusive Education), PGCE (Foundation Phase and ECD), B.A.
Dr. Kumaree Padayichie is a leading authority in Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Foundation Phase education, with a career spanning 17 years of teaching, leadership, and research. Her experience includes roles as a Grade R educator, Grade Head, Phase Head (Foundation Phase), and Principal, giving her a deep understanding of the critical role foundational learning plays in shaping children’s long-term success.
Currently, Dr. Padayichie serves as a lecturer and module coordinator at a private university, where she leads programs for the Bachelor of Education Degree (Foundation Phase: Grades R–3) and Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–7) across contact and distance learning. She also coordinates the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Foundation Phase, while mentoring future educators as a teaching practice assessor. Specializing in modules that focus on Early Childhood Development, she is committed to developing teaching strategies rooted in evidence-based learning and inclusive education.
Dr. Padayichie’s academic credentials reflect her dedication to advancing the field of education and child development:
As a passionate advocate for play-based learning, Dr. Padayichie emphasizes its role in cultivating critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration among young learners. She strongly believes that foundational learning structures paired with a value-based curriculum empower children to become independent, socially responsible adults.
Her research interests focus on the interplay between socio-emotional development, early intervention strategies, and inclusive education practices. Dr. Padayichie actively supports educators, parents, and policymakers in applying socio-educational principles that address the developmental needs of children in Foundation Phase classrooms. Her work champions evidence-based teaching strategies that prioritize social interaction, resilience, and the emotional well-being of young learners.
In her role as a teaching practice mentor and educational leader, Dr. Padayichie equips educators with the skills to implement brain-aligned, play-based methodologies that ensure all children are given the opportunity to thrive. Through her experience and dedication, she continues to make significant contributions to the field of Early Childhood Education.
Dr. Padayichie believes that every child deserves a nurturing environment enriched with opportunities for social, emotional, and cognitive development. By bridging the gap between research and practice, she empowers schools and educators to provide transformative learning experiences that lay the groundwork for future success.
Contact: thivkum@hotmail.com
Lecturer in Education
