ECE Licensing Criteria

Curriculum

The Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008 set the curriculum standard. This standard requires every licensed service provider to plan, implement, and evaluate a curriculum that is consistent with the curriculum framework and Te Whāriki.

Providing a rich local curriculum, developmentally-appropriate support, together with skillful teaching practices within a nurturing environment contributes to quality learning outcomes for young learners.
‍

Governance, Management, Administration

Implementing good governance and management practices is vital to comply with licensing criteria and operate your centre effectively. Every early learning centre will need to understand the role of governance boards, the distinction between governance and management, and have tools available for effective leadership.
‍

Health and Safety

The health and safety licensing standard requires that every licensed service provider take all reasonable steps to prevent accidents and the spread of infection among children and services have to ensure that the premises, facilities are kept in good repair and are safe to use.

This standard also requires that all reasonable steps are taken that procedures are in place to deal with fire, earthquakes and other emergencies.
‍

Premises and Facilities

To comply with the licensing criteria on premises and facilities, you will need to have premises and facilities suitable for the age-range of children attending, and provide sufficient and suitable space for a range of activities. Premises and facilities have to allow for appropriate curriculum implementation and safe and healthy practices.
‍

Why policies and procedures are important for your ECE centre

Policies and other guiding documents are a key part of a centre’s communication about its philosophy, values, and how the centre operates safely and maintains quality. These documents are also needed to ensure compliance with the Ministry of Education ECE Licensing Criteria, and other legislation, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, the Children’s Act 2014, and the Food Act 2014.

‍

‍