10 OctDoes your service have an up-to-date Enrolment and Orientation policy?
In Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), policies and procedures are pivotal in shaping access, equity, and standards. The Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011 mandate that approved services must establish comprehensive policies and procedures, particularly concerning enrolment and orientation (Regulation 168(2)(k)). In Victoria, where education milestones start before formal schooling, a blend of legislative requirements and government initiatives shapes the landscape of access and health considerations for children entering kindergarten.
Victoria stands out for its commitment to providing two years of Free Kinder for eligible children before they begin school. However, the demand often surpasses available places, necessitating a fair allocation strategy. Approved providers must adhere rigorously to eligibility criteria and the Department of Education’s (DE) Priority of Access guidelines to allocate these limited places. This allocation process carefully considers DE’s Kindergarten Funding Guide, the service’s ethos, and the provisions laid out in the Equal Opportunity Act 2010, emphasising the promotion of equal opportunities for all children.
To streamline the enrolment process and ensure fair access, the Victorian Government champions the Central Registration and Enrolment Scheme (CRES). This collaborative model, co-designed by the Department of Education, unites councils, service providers, healthcare staff, support services, and stakeholders. Operating across more than half of Victoria’s local councils, these schemes simplify enrolment by providing a singular entry point for families, enhancing access equity to kindergarten education.
This integrated approach, blending legislative obligations, government initiatives, and collaborative models like CRES, demonstrates Victoria’s commitment to equitable access, health, and safety within its ECEC sector. By enshrining policies that prioritise equal opportunities sets a foundation for a more inclusive future for its youngest citizens.
Does your service have an up-to-date Enrolment and Orientation policy?
Our PolicyWorks catalogue provides easy to use templates to assist early childhood education and care services to understand and update policies to meet legislative, regulatory and funding requirements.
CLICK HERE to subscribe to our PolicyWorks Catalogue Subscription.
