Australian Government - MyChild.gov.auHigh quality early childhood education and care – a new National Quality Standard
A consistent national measure of quality in early childhood education will be introduced as part of the framework.
The National Quality Standard provides clarity about what is expected for the provision of quality education and care in Australia. It is organised into seven quality areas.
Seven quality areas
1 Educational program and practice
- These should be stimulating, engaging and enhance children’s learning and
development. In school-age care services, the program should nurture the
development of life skills and complement children’s experiences, opportunities
and relationships at school, at home and in the community.
2 Children’s health and safety
- Every child’s health and wellbeing should be safeguarded and promoted.
3 Physical environment
- This should be safe, suitable and provide a rich and diverse range of
experiences which promote children’s learning and development.
4 Staffing arrangements
- Staffing arrangements should create a safe and routine environment for
children and support warm, respectful relationships. Major changes as part of
the National Quality Standard will improve staff-to-child ratios and the
educational qualifications of the workforce.
5 Relationships with children
- These should be responsive, respectful and promote a child’s sense of
security and belonging so they are confident to explore the environment and
engage in learning.
6 Collaborative partnerships with families and communities
- Good working relationships with families are fundamental to achieving good
outcomes for children. Community partnerships should focus on active
communication, consultation and collaboration that all contribute to children’s
learning and wellbeing.
7 Leadership and service management
- Effective leadership and management will sustain positive relationships and
environments that aid children’s learning and development. Well-documented
policies and practices should be developed and regularly evaluated in
partnership with educators, coordinators, staff and families.
A factsheet providing information on the National Quality Standard is available via the DEEWR Website.
For additional information on the National Quality Standard, please visit the DEEWR website.