Early Learning Centre Exceeding National Quality Standards Posted on Wednesday 14 December 2022 ELC Exceeding National Quality Standards Early November saw the Early Learning Centre (ELC) team partake in its Assessment and Rating visit by the regulatory body of Victoria. All education and care services across the country participate in this process whereby we are assessed and then rated against the National Quality Standards (NQS). The NQS sets a high national benchmark for all early childhood education services and comprises of 7 quality areas, which are: Educational program and practice Children’s health and safety Physical environment Staffing arrangements Relationships with children Collaborative partnerships with families and communities Governance and leadership I am so pleased to share that our ELC has been awarded the rating of Exceeding the National Quality Standards for each of the above quality areas. In order to achieve an Exceeding rating, a service must demonstrate that exceeding practice is embedded in the service operations, is informed by critical reflection and is shaped by meaningful engagement with families and/or the community. Below is an excerpt from our report: High quality practice was demonstrated consistently and frequently across the service. This consistency in the intent and approach to practice across the service created a strong sense of continuity and belonging for each child. The educators demonstrated practice that was thoughtful, intentional, and responsive to the everyday events and the ongoing needs of the children. The educators’ practices and the discussions held throughout the visit clearly aligned with the service’s mission, the practices and principles of the approved learning frameworks and the College values. The passionate teaching team worked in partnership to foster caring and nurturing relationships with all children within the program. Practices demonstrated their value of being advocates for children’s rights as citizens and enabling them to realise their own potential. The outdoor environment allowed children to grow and learn in a large natural setting, engaging in significant physical play and developing an appreciation for exploration and imaginary play. The service demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and environmental awareness, which was observed throughout the educational program. The service’s passion for sustainability and environmental awareness had been incorporated into educators’ daily practices and supported empowering children to care for the world in which they live. Educators genuinely considered Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, and this was visible throughout the ELC premises. – Authorised Officer from the Department of Education and Training. Congratulations to the ELC team who through their positive daily interactions with children and families, program implementation and professional standards make our ELC a wonderful place to be for children and families! A truly remarkable way to finish the year. Emily Trenchard Director of Early Learning Centre
