EXCEEDING INTO THE FUTURE WITH TG’S CHILD CARE WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND SERVICES TO BE GIVEN A NOD OF APPROVAL? An example of this would be to achieve the ranking of Exceeding National Quality Standard (NQS). Exceeding NQS is going above and beyond what is expected at the Meeting NQS level. (Source: acecqa.gov.au)
WHAT IS NQS AND WHAT DOES EXCEEDING THAT ENTAIL? Australia’s National Quality Standard (NQS) sets a high national benchmark for early childhood education and care and outside school hours care services.
WHAT ARE THE 7 QUALITY AREAS? The NQS assesses and rates early childhood education and child care services to promote continuous improvement in the quality of the education and care provided. This also includes improving knowledge and access for families to make informed decisions about their children’s education and care. As part of the National Regulations, the NQS includes 7 quality areas essential to a child’s learning and developmental outcomes.
3. Physical environment - children play in a safe and well-maintained environment 4. Staffing arrangements - there are enough qualified staff to give children the attention they need 5. Relationships with children - children are made to feel supported and welcomed
6. Collaborative partnerships with families To be rated Exceeding NQS overall, and communities - local all Quality Areas must be at least community involvement 1. Educational program and Meeting NQS, and four or more and respect for the beliefs practice - children are Quality Areas must be Exceeding and values of families supported to participate NQS, with at least two being in play and learning Quality Areas 1, 5, 6 or 7. 7. Governance and The NQS comprises of 7 quality areas that are important outcomes for children.
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2. Children’s health and safety - children are protected from illness and hazards
leadership - children are cared for in a positive and well-managed environment
