NDNA Scotland says Quality Improvement Framework not fit for purpose 

Scotland’s new Quality Improvement Framework is being shown to the sector by Care Inspectorate and Education Scotland. 

During November, nursery owners first had the chance to look at the framework during “familiarisation sessions”. This will replace the existing frameworks from the two inspectorates. 

The actual new framework won’t be published until early 2025. 

Jonathan Broadbery, NDNA’s Director of Policy, said: “We have been involved along with other early years organisations in the development of this framework, which was intended to reduce the burden on providers. 

“NDNA has made it clear that we do not feel that the framework in it’s current form is fit for purpose, and requires further development to make it so. 

“We have given feedback to the Care Inspectorate, Education Scotland and the Scottish Government raising concerns on behalf of the sector. Disappointingly this has not been fully taken on board in the current version of the framework. 

Natalie Don-Innes MS

“We know private and voluntary providers work extremely hard all year round and it’s vital that inspections are a constructive process geared towards supporting improvement. However, this framework could still result in two inspections which would make the process more difficult and not help. 

“We will continue to work with partners, providers and inspectorate bodies on this issue.” 

NDNA, along with other organisations, wrote formally to Education Scotland, Care Inspectorate, the Scottish Government and the Minister to raise our concerns again.

At a recent NDNA event the Minister Natalie Don-Innes MS told member nurseries: “Thank you for your commitment to ELC and for all of your hard work and your effort to deliver high quality ELC to children across Scotland. I truly welcome the support you provide and remain fully committed to working with you to make our childcare policies a success.  

Discussing inspections she noted, “I understand that NDNA, alongside other bodies, has been in dialogue with the Care Inspectorate about providers’ experience of inspections.  

  • Scotland

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