“It’s our polite nudge in the ribs to help you and your team stay organised and on task.”
This week’s subject is: ECA Code of Ethics
Element 4.2.2: Professional Standards
Professional standards guide practice, interactions, and relationships
The Early Childhood Australia Code of Ethics was originally developed in 1988 for early childhood professionals. Since then, Early Childhood Australia have reviewed and published additional versions, with the current version having been approved by the ECA National Board and published in 2016.
The Code of Ethics reflects pedagogical research and practice and is informed by the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1991) and the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (2007). The Code of Ethics sets a standard for professional practice and ethical responsibilities for childhood professionals working in Education and Care Services.
It’s important that staff are familiar with the ECA Code of Ethics and refer to it in their reflective practice and use as a guide with their decision making and professional practice.
Ensure you provide a copy to staff upon appointment and then regularly review and discuss the Code of Ethics with staff at team meetings as well as use as a reference to guide practice during professional conversations.
Provide online learning modules and webinars for staff to engage in professional learning about how educators can use the Code of Ethics to strengthen relationships with children, families, colleagues, and community.
Share the Code of Ethics with families by displaying a framed or laminated copy at the service and sharing in your Newsletter through a link to the Code of Ethics.
Resources:
ECA Code of Ethics Publications
Quality Area 4- Belonging, Being and Becoming for Educators
Within System7 go to Quality Area 4/Module 11 to submit self-assessment notes and if required, open a QIP issue if you identify any areas of improvement.
The Childcare Centre Desktop has a range of resources to assist services with element 4.2.2. These include a Code of Conduct, Code of Conduct Policy (LDC, FDC, OSHC) and much more.
Resources, NQS Element, Regulation and System7 links:
Childcare Centre Desktop – LDC Policy Library- QA 4, FDC Policy Library, OSHC Policy Library
National Quality Standard – QA 4/ 4.2.2- Professional standards
National Regulations – 168
System7 Module – QA 4/ Module 11
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