The 'go to' organisation for Local Government improvement in Scotland

Laura James - Programme Manager

laura.james@improvementservice.org.uk

As Programme Manager, my role involves coordinating and managing the Improvement Service resource dedicated to ELC. This includes providing advice, challenge and support to councils and Scottish Government in pursuit of improving ELC services.

Emma Gartshore - Early Years Policy and Engagement Manager

emma.gartshore@improvementservice.org.uk

As Engagement Manager, I support both local authorities and Scottish Government by using knowledge management approaches to strengthen the expansion programme, actively improve engagement with ELC networks and develop content that benefits the ELC sector. ​My role allows me to actively engage with and develop the early years community as an environment that connects people, encourages faster problem solving, cuts down on duplication of effort and act as an interface between local and Scottish Government.

Karen Brown - Engagement Manager

karen.brown@improvementservice.org.uk

Valentina Gosetti - Data and Intelligence Project Manager

valentina.gosetti@improvementservice.org.uk

As Data and Intelligence Project Manager, I use my analytical skills to gather, analyse, and present data on the quality and delivery of funded ELC across local authorities. I lead on the technical development of the ELC Insights Dashboard, and work closely with colleagues in Scottish Government and national partners to support meaningful use and interpretation of data. Before joining the team, I completed a PhD in psychology at the University of Glasgow and worked as a teaching assistant in programming, statistics, and psychology. I am passionate about making data accessible and engaging, and ensuring that decision-making is informed by clear and transparent evidence.

Vicki Keirnan - ELC Workforce Planning Manager

vicki.keirnan@improvementservice.org.uk

In my role as Workforce Planning Manager, I work with the Scottish Government, local authorities, and key partners to strengthen and support the delivery of high-quality ELC services across Scotland. My work includes analysing workforce data, advising on recruitment and resourcing strategies, and supporting local authorities in maximizing their workforce's effectiveness. I am passionate about building strong relationships, facilitating learning and collaboration, and ensuring sustainable growth in the ELC profession.

Rob Beal - ELC Service Design and Planning Manager

rob.beal@improvementservice.org.uk

With significant senior management experience across several local authorities in the UK, I bring expertise in early years education, policy implementation, and strategic planning. I have successfully implemented key policy areas such as two-year-old funding and the expansion of early learning and childcare. My experience also includes managing projects in the third sector, including app development and parenting support.

At the Improvement Service, I lead the Outcomes and Measurement Framework (OMF) project, which is jointly owned and supported by the Scottish Government, local government, and sector delivery partners. I also support councils in addressing the challenges of increasing uptake of funded places for two-year-olds. I enjoy problem-solving and using data to test, measure, and evaluate services, helping ensure early learning and childcare benefits our youngest children.