accreditation
about us
What is Accreditation?
The Accreditation system aims to provide children in centre-based childcare throughout Australia with the highest possible care that promotes optimal learning and development required in the early years. The main objective of the process is to ensure all children in long day care have stimulating, positive experiences and interactions that foster all areas of development and learning. The Accreditation process ensures this by providing the framework by which quality childcare can be measured in the childcare setting.
The QIAS (Quality Improvement and Accreditation System) is a Commonwealth Government initiative linked to CCB approval - only Accredited centres are eligible for CCB. By doing this, families can be assured that the care provided at the service has been accredited and meets the standards of quality care. Centres that are not eligible for CCB have either not registered to be accredited, or have failed to comply with the standards.
The QIAS process is broken down into 10 Quality Areas with 35 principles in total. This is the framework of assessment. All 10 Quality Areas and 35 principles need to be of a satisfactory standard or higher for the centre to be Accredited.
The QIAS Process
10 Quality Areas described by 35 principles of quality practice.
| Step 1 | Registration |
|---|---|
| Step 2 Self Study |
Self Study and Continuing Improvement which is completed in consultation with staff, parents and Committee. The Centre rates itself against the principles, with results of this equate to the "Continuing Improvement Plan" At specified times, the self study report and CIP are summarised and submitted to NCAC |
| Step 3 Validation |
A trained validator visits the Centre to validate submitted reports. The validaters report (based on their observations) is also in accordance with the 10 quality areas and 35 principles. The validater also views the Validation surveys completed by staff, parents and the Co-ordinator completed during the few weeks prior to the visit. |
| Step 4 Moderation |
Moderators make their assessment based on - Centres Self Study Report, Validation surveys and the Validation report |
| Step 5 Accreditation Decision |
The NCAC makes its final decision based on the previous 4 steps. The centre is then required to continue the cycle until the next Self Study Report is due. |
Registration
To be accredited, the Centre must achieve a minimum of satisfactory ratings in all areas and principles. Accredited Centres need to submit Self Study Reports to the NCAC every 2.5 years
Quicklinks
Download full parent's handbook (PDF, 1.2mb)