Richard Waite

Richard Waite is an Early Years Digital Technology Advisor with 38 years of experience in Early Years Care & Education. As the founder of Waite.EYTS, he specialises in helping nurseries, schools and families navigate technology safely and effectively in early childhood settings.

Richard’s extensive background includes roles as an Early Years Educator and STEM Lead, Deputy Manager at Bright Horizons and ICT Coordinator managing technology for over 300 nurseries. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Information Management & Education Studies, an NNEB Diploma in Childcare and Education and an EPICT Certificate in Online Safety.

Currently based in London, Richard works as an independent consultant with Smart Owl Edtech Consultancy and serves as a Community Ambassador for Male Childcare Teaching and Jobs. He is passionate about advocating for play-based learning, digital safeguarding and supporting men in childcare roles.

Richard regularly speaks at conferences and contributes to publications on topics including AI in Early Years, online safety and STEAM education. He creates practical digital resources and training programmes that help early years practitioners implement technology safely while maintaining child-centered, play-based approaches.

His expertise spans digital literacy, online safety protocols, screen time management and helping families understand how to create safe digital environments for young children.