New Zealand has a wide range of early childhood services. Many are run by private operators, community church groups and voluntary agencies. Parents are usually encouraged to be involved so it can be an excellent way of meeting other families and making friends.
Unlike primary and secondary schools, not all these services automatically receive state funding. As a general rule, state funding is provided only if the service is licensed and has a 'charter' that formally sets out educational policies. Licensing standards are set by the Ministry of Education. Criteria include minimum ratios of staff to children and restrictions on class sizes. The centres are regularly monitored by the Education Review Office (ERO).
The Ministry of Education (MOE) provides local contacts and advice on the range of early childhood services available. This service is free. Your neighbours, local Citizens Advice Bureau or Plunket (see Health) can also be useful sources of information.
The following helpful guides, published by ERO and MOE, are available free:
- What Counts as Quality in Early Childhood Centres (ERO)
- Choices in Early Childhood Education
- Quality in Early Childhood Education
