Leigh Disney

Dr Leigh Disney is an early childhood educator, teacher educator, and researcher whose work focuses on improving learning, teaching, and professional practice in early childhood education and care.

With more than 25 years of experience across early childhood education, schools, universities, and community partnerships, Leigh brings a strong practice-informed perspective to both his teaching and research. Before entering academia, he worked extensively in early childhood settings and as a primary school teacher, experiences that continue to shape his commitment to supporting children, educators, families, and communities.

Leigh is a Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Education at Flinders University. His research explores how young children learn through play, imagination, creativity, and meaningful interactions with others. He has particular expertise in early mathematics education, Conceptual PlayWorld, play-based pedagogies, and digital technologies in education. His work examines how educators can create engaging learning environments that support children's thinking, problem-solving, communication, and development.

Alongside his research on children's learning, Leigh has a strong interest in teacher education, professional learning, educator wellbeing, workforce development, and professional identity. His current projects explore innovative approaches to workforce capability, interdisciplinary practice, educator support, and the recruitment and retention of early childhood professionals.

Leigh is passionate about preparing future educators and creating learning experiences that connect theory, research, and professional practice. His contributions to teaching and student learning have been recognised through university-level awards and national award nominations. He is also an experienced Higher Degree by Research supervisor and has supported numerous doctoral candidates to successful completion.

Through partnerships with educators, services, professional organisations, government agencies, and international collaborators, Leigh seeks to generate research and professional learning that strengthens practice and improves outcomes for children, families, educators, and communities.