In 2014, Charles became the founding Chair of Goodstart’s Thought Leaders Group. With his passion, integrity and deep commitment to children, he brought together leading academics and changemakers from Canada, the UK, the US, Europe and Australia – forming a network that has played a critical role in helping us improve outcomes for children.
Under his leadership, the Thought Leaders Group:
- Commissioned research to explore what drives strong child outcomes
- Connected evidence with everyday practice to influence sector change
- Identified tools to monitor child development and educator impact
- Fostered bold ideas and rich academic debate
- Explored how digital tools can enhance early learning experiences.
Charles believed deeply in the role of evidence, equity, and early learning as a lever for social change. His words in 2022 capture the spirit of collaboration he championed:
“What a joy to work with so many brilliant colleagues. My affiliation with Goodstart remains one of the most indelibly meaningful professional experiences of my career.”
Charles’s legacy continues to shape our thinking and inspire our actions. His contribution lives on – not just in strategy and policy – but in every child whose future is made brighter through access to quality early learning.