ECCE Policy Developments (Síolta)

There are two important Policy developments in the ECCE sector:

Síolta: The National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education, which was published in 2006 by the Centre for Early Childhood Development and Education or CEDCE.
It outlines the principles and underlying standards required for a quality ECCE setting, designed to be used in all services for children aged 0 – 6 years which includes:
Ø  childminding services
Ø  pre-school services
Ø  junior classes in primary school

It also outlines 16 standards, which aims the services must meet and each standard divided into different components, to provide guidance and meeting the setting standards.  These three standards are particularly relevant for child health and well-being.

a.      Standard Two: Environment – states the enriching environments both indoor and outdoor (including materials and equipment) well be maintained, safe, available, accessible, adaptable, developmentally appropriate and offer a variety of challenging and stimulating experiences.  (CEDCE 2006:19)

The ECCE requirements for workers is to provide a challenging but safe environment that allows children to take risks and explore their developing abilities.  And its importance of a well-designed and attractive environment is highlighted.  Safety checks to be carried out regularly to ensure compliance with legislation and to make sure that environment remain safe for children.  The environment must be accessible to children with all abilities, including children with special educational needs.  Regular inspection, cleaning checks and reflective practice combine to ensure that settings meet the standard of Environment.



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