Understanding the NQS

Today I saw how the centre is adhering to the seven quality areas of the NQS. I targeted Quality Area 1 (Educational Program and Practice) and Quality Area 5 (Relationships with Children). I saw the way intentional teaching was part of play, the way educators developed secure, respectful relationships with each child. Now, I definitely put some thought into how I might best contribute to the QIP. Here are some questions to consider that will assist you in reflecting and highlighting the way you understand and implement the NQS.

Navigating NQS Challenges

Meeting Individual Standards within Each Quality Area:It seems that the NQS does encompass so many aspects from how personal relationships with children are formed, to programs, to safety and leadership. Ensuring that all is well-documented and correlates to the set of specific standards could be compared to putting pieces of a puzzle together (Department of Education, 2022).

I ensure that I continually refer to the NQS framework, using it as a guide when documenting. It’s also useful to have a look through templates of documentation periodically so things match up and I’m consistent with how I present the information.

Early childhood educators in Australia face various challenges when meeting the National Quality Standards. These can include limited resources, difficulties in interpreting the standards, and the need for ongoing professional development.

Busting NQS Myths

I found out how to chat to parents about NQS by talking about it with my room leader. I sent her some questions to give me a better idea. I ask, What about the health and safety of children? (Quality Area 2) (ACECQA, 2023). How do we bring the best out of children? (Quality Area 5) (ACECQA, 2023) What are we doing to engage families in learning (QA 6)? I discover that some parents may not know about the NQS or some of its jargon so it’s important to ensure it is referencing the NQS in plain, clear language. For example, rather than use buzzwords like “staffing arrangements,” I might say, “Our focus is on making sure we have qualified, experienced staff to look after your child and provide them with the best opportunities to learn.”

A common misconception about the National Quality Standards is that it's simply a compliance exercise. In reality, the NQS is designed to promote continuous improvement and enhance the quality of care and education for children.

Activity

Exploring the Dinosaur World – Sensory and Imaginative Play

Learning Experience:

Outdoor play In the garden, children played in a mud and soil-filled dinosaur sensory tray. The play area was meticulously prepared with mini trees, rocks, and mini mountains to give a prehistoric feel that promoted creativity and tactile play.

Children were involved in a range of activities, including gathering leaves and twigs to feed the dinosaurs. Some felt the mud with their hand by poking and prodding or added animals for added interest to the play. Some children demonstrated in their empathic and responsible response: They removed the dirt from the animals - they engaged in co-operative, nurturing behavior.

EYLF Learning Outcomes:

  • Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity

    • 1.1 Children feel safe, secure, and supported.

    • 1.2 Children develop their emerging autonomy, inter-dependence, resilience and sense of agency.

    • 1.4 Children learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy and respect.

  • Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world

    • 2.1 Children develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities.

    • 2.4 Children become socially responsible and show respect for the environment.

  • Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing

    • 3.1 Children become strong in their social and emotional wellbeing.

    • 3.2 Children take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical wellbeing.

  • Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners

    • 4.1 Children develop dispositions for learning such as curiosity, cooperation, confidence, creativity, commitment, enthusiasm, persistence, imagination and reflexivity.

Intentional Teaching:

This activity was developed to assist with exploring of the senses, creative thinking and social skills. It gave children the freedom to tell stories, work together and use the environment around them to make sense of the world through role

Need NQS Support?

Let ikon placement.au help you navigate the complexities of the National Quality Standards. Contact us today to discover how we can support your early childhood education service.