June 2012 National Quality Framework Preparing for the assessment and rating visit Podcast Series: 3

Presentation overview 1.The assessment and rating process 2.Preparation tips 3.Evaluation 4.Resources

Overview of the assessment and rating process

Step (*)Action – any time from 1 May 2012 STEP 1 Notification to submit QIP (6 weeks to do so) STEP 2 (wk 6) Notification of date for site visit STEP 3 (wk 12) Site visit occurs - some on the spot feedback STEP 4 (wk 15) Draft assessment report / rating provided STEP 5 (wk 18) Feedback on report by provider is considered STEP 6 (wk 20) Report is finalised & rating determined 1. Overview Assessment and rating process Steps in the assessment and rating process *approximate timeframe Refer to acecqa.gov.au for the information sheet

Be empowered and a part of the process Engage with the resources available Become familiar with the seven quality areas of the National Quality Standard (NQS) and related regulatory requirements (Schedule 1, page 325 of the National Regulations) Refer to the Guide to the National Quality Standard Engage with the approved learning frameworks Undertake a comprehensive self-assessment Start to implement the Quality Improvement Plan 1. Overview Assessment and rating process

Remember, it’s a collaborative process Collaborate with the authorised officer Various opportunities for discussion, to raise questions and provide additional information Discuss strategies for improvement identified in the Quality Improvement Plan Broad feedback during the assessment visit provided 1. Overview Assessment and rating process

Minor adjustment policy There will be opportunity to address minor adjustments Within specified areas and timeframes Provide satisfactory evidence issue is resolved Evidence to be provided before the draft report is finalised and does not guarantee a service will be found to meet the relevant element or standard 1. Overview Assessment and rating process

The benchmark for quality has been raised The National Quality Standard (NQS) sets a new and higher national benchmark When children participate in high quality early childhood education and care programs, they are given the opportunity to reach their full potential and thrive Minimum standards are important, but consider the NQS and strategies for continuous quality improvement Ratings may not translate from NCAC to NQS 1. Overview Assessment and rating process

Assessments will be against the NQS and related regulatory requirements Ensuring reliability and consistency is key Rigorous authorised officer training and testing Numerous checks and balances Regional office and departmental review 1. Overview Assessment and rating process

Preparation tips in lead up to and during your visit

Tips for preparing for the assessment visit Ensure you have undertaken a self-assessment against the NQS and regulatory standards Involve all educators, parents and children in the self-assessment and discussions Be open and honest Acknowledge and celebrate strengths Implement the approved learning framework The Early Years Learning Framework (birth – 5yrs), Framework for School Age Care (6 – 12yrs) Review the Guide to the National Quality Standard (so educators and others know what to expect) 2. Preparation for assessment and rating visit What to expect

Tips for preparing for the assessment visit Inform parents and educators prior to the visit Introduce the authorised officer Negotiate a suitable time to talk with the authorised officer at the beginning and end of the visit Collaborate with the authorised officer Ensure documentation related to the NQS and regulatory requirements is readily available 2. Preparation for assessment and rating visit What to expect

The focus is strongly on continuous quality improvement and quality outcomes for children. Compliance with the legislative standards provides a strong foundation to build on.

Evaluation of the assessment and rating process

Resources to assist in your preparation

Education and Care Services National Law Education and Care Services National Regulations National Quality Standard Early Years Learning Framework & Framework for School Age Care (or other approved learning framework) Guide to the National Quality Standard Guide to the National Law and National Regulations 2 Guide to Developing a Quality Improvement Plan 4 Guide to the National Quality Framework 1 Source Documents 4. Resources National Quality Standard Assessment and Rating Instrument Guide to Assessment and Rating for Services Guide to Assessment and Rating for Regulatory Authorities Support Documents 3

4. Resources det.qld.gov.au / earlychildhood Podcasts FAQs Regulation information Policies and procedures A-to-Z

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