National Quality Standard
The National Quality Standard (NQS) is the heart of Australia’s National Quality Framework. It sets out the benchmark for early childhood education and care services, covering seven quality areas that matter most for children’s development, safety, and wellbeing. Understanding the NQS helps parents choose the right childcare service and know what to expect from providers in Goulburn and across Australia.
What is the National Quality Standard?
The National Quality Standard outlines what high-quality care looks like across seven areas. Services are assessed and rated by regulatory authorities, giving families clear information to compare providers. Ratings range from “Exceeding NQS” to “Meeting NQS,” “Working Towards NQS,” and in some cases, “Excellent.”
The Seven Quality Areas
- 1. Educational Program & Practice – The service provides stimulating programs tailored to children’s learning and development, building skills and curiosity for school readiness.
- 2. Children’s Health & Safety – Services must ensure safe environments, healthy practices, supervision, and emergency preparedness.
- 3. Physical Environment – The design, resources, and spaces should be safe, accessible, and inspiring, both indoors and outdoors.
- 4. Staffing Arrangements – Qualified educators, appropriate ratios, and stable staffing support quality learning and care.
- 5. Relationships with Children – Respectful, responsive, and supportive interactions help children feel secure, confident, and valued.
- 6. Collaborative Partnerships with Families & Communities – Families are included in decision-making, and services connect with their local communities.
- 7. Governance & Leadership – Strong leadership and effective management underpin continuous improvement and compliance with regulations.
Each area is assessed separately, and then combined into an overall service rating. This makes it easy for parents to identify strengths and areas for improvement at their chosen childcare service.
NQS Ratings Explained
| Rating | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Excellent | Awarded by ACECQA to services that show outstanding practice across all quality areas. |
| Exceeding NQS | Service goes beyond the requirements in at least four quality areas, including key ones such as Educational Program & Practice. |
| Meeting NQS | Service meets the national benchmark across all quality areas. |
| Working Towards NQS | Some elements or areas require improvement, but the service is actively monitored and supported. |
| Significant Improvement Required | Service must address issues immediately to meet minimum standards. |
National Quality Standard in Goulburn
For parents choosing childcare in Goulburn, the National Quality Standard provides reassurance that services are monitored and assessed. Many local centres and preschools are rated “Meeting” or “Exceeding NQS,” while family day care schemes also undergo regular assessment. Before enrolling, you can ask providers about their most recent rating and how they’re working on continuous improvement.
How the National Quality Framework and National Quality Standard Work Together
Parents often hear both the National Quality Framework (NQF) and the National Quality Standard (NQS) mentioned when researching childcare. While they are connected, each has a slightly different focus:
| Aspect | National Quality Framework (NQF) | National Quality Standard (NQS) |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | The overall system that governs early childhood education and care in Australia. | The benchmark within the NQF that sets quality expectations across seven areas. |
| Focus | Law, regulations, approved learning frameworks, assessment & rating, and oversight by ACECQA. | Practical quality measures for services, including learning programs, safety, and governance. |
| For Parents | Explains the legal and regulatory foundation of childcare services. | Gives clear ratings (“Exceeding,” “Meeting,” “Working Towards”) to help compare services. |
Why the NQS Matters for Parents
- Helps you compare services on more than just cost or location.
- Gives transparency into educator qualifications, health and safety, and learning quality.
- Supports informed decisions when choosing between centre-based care, preschools, or family day care.
- Encourages continuous improvement across the sector, benefiting all families.
Frequently Asked Questions about the National Quality Standard
Q: How often are services assessed?
A: Most services are assessed every 3 to 5 years, but timing can vary. Services with lower ratings may be reassessed sooner, while those rated “Exceeding” may go longer between assessments.
Q: Can parents access the full report?
A: Yes. Services must display their current rating, and families can access reports through Starting Blocks or by asking the provider directly.
Q: Does an NQS rating affect fees?
A: No. Ratings don’t directly set fees. However, higher-rated services may be in greater demand, which can influence waiting lists and enrolment availability.
