Baseline survey good for Early Childhood Education

Baseline survey good for Early Childhood Education sector

The First NZCER national survey of early childhood education provides excellent baseline data for services to measure progress against as the government's 10-year strategic plan rolls out.

"These past 5 years have seen a fast-changing sector with significant improvements in teacher qualification levels and professionalism and a growing evidence base to inform policy," said Nancy Bell, Chief Executive of Te Tari Puna Ora O Aotearoa/NZ Childcare Association.

"However there are still real challenges for the sector around accessibility of ECE, teachers pay and conditions and adult-child ratios for babies and toddlers," said Nancy.

"This report validates our commitment to 'free 20 hours' because it shows that 88% of the parents supported the policy and 1 in 5 would increase the hours their child attends if ECE were free. This fits into what we are hearing from our members. Parents are excited about this initiative and its potential to increase their child's participation," said Nancy.

The survey reflects a positive profile for ECE. However, there are key issues that will need to be addressed in the next coming years.

"The sector still has some way to go. In the next five years, we will be working for further improvements in ECE, especially in relation to pay parity and access," said Nancy.

Te Tari Puna Ora o Aotearoa/NZ Childcare Association has over 1000 members in early childhood education centres throughout New Zealand.

Ends

© Scoop Media