If you are looking for a child care centre in Cannington, Wellard or any Perth suburb, you have probably noticed mention of the “Early Childhood and Care Framework.” Also called the “National Quality Framework,” it took effect on 1 January 2012 in other states and on 1 August 2012 in WA.
The Framework contained a provision for a review by Australian State and Territory Governments in 2014. Recently, the review was published. Feedback was obtained from child care providers, parents, organisations, peak bodies and interested members of the public.
Key Trends from Feedback
Generally, the review indicated “broad support” for the National Quality Standard and the National Quality Framework. The reviewers found no need to make systemic changes. They recommended streamlining the current process to “remove red tape” for both regulators and services.
Specifically, the recommended streamlining of the rating and assessment process to “improve consistency of approach,” especially in the interpretation of the National Quality Standard. They also recommended reducing the “administrative burden” by addressing documentation, paperwork and administration issues.
Key Strengths of the Framework
The framework was found to be doing what it was intended to do: improve the quality of early childhood care. They found that the main strengths are the following:
Consistency across the sector due to the existence of a framework.
Focus on professional development and constant improvement of quality.
More attention to improving outcomes for children, including the Early Years Learning Framework.
Better communication between child care providers and families about the importance of preschool learning.
Better qualification requirements.
Increased teacher to child ratio.
What it Means to You
At Cuddles Childcare Centres, we provide the Perth area with the best child care that we can possibly give. We like the Framework because it is a great resource for us. We follow the Framework, but we see the standards as minimal standards and we consistently exceed those standards.
To learn more, see our contact details at the bottom of the page.
