We’re thrilled to share that two of our services, Conder Early Learning Centre and Reid Early Learning Centre have been rated Exceeding the National Quality Standard (NQS) following their latest Assessment and Rating processes.
These outstanding results recognise the dedication of our educators and leaders in creating environments where children are nurtured, challenged, and supported to thrive. While Conder and Reid now join our list of exceeding-rated services, including Winyu Early Childhood Service, Campbell Cottage, Currawong Early Childhood and Aranda School Age Care Service, we are proud that all our services continue to deliver high-quality education and care to Canberra’s children and families.
What does ‘Exceeding NQS’ mean?
The National Quality Standard sets the benchmark for what quality early learning looks like in Australia. It sits within the National Quality Framework (NQF) the nationally recognised approach to ensuring children receive the best start in life through safe, high-quality education and care.
The NQS includes seven Quality Areas that together form a holistic picture of service quality:
- Educational Program and Practice: Meaningful, play-based learning experiences that nurture children’s growth and wellbeing.
- Children’s Health and Safety: Hygiene, supervision, and protection measures that ensure every child’s safety.
- Physical Environment: Engaging spaces that invite discovery, play, and sustainability.
- Staffing Arrangements: Qualified educators and consistent relationships that foster belonging and learning.
- Relationships with Children: Warm, respectful connections that help children feel secure and confident.
- Collaborative Partnerships with Families and Communities: Strong relationships between educators, families, and the community.
- Governance and Leadership: Effective leadership and a culture of reflection and continuous improvement.
Why it matters for children and families
For families, a Meeting or Exceeding rating offers meaningful assurance that their children are learning and growing in an environment where care, relationships, and education meet and often go beyond national quality expectations. For children, it means being part of a place where curiosity is encouraged, belonging is celebrated, and each day provides new opportunities to explore, discover, and connect.
We are incredibly proud of our Conder and Reid teams, and all our educators for their passion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to high-quality outcomes for children.