New Licensing Criteria for ECE Services Released – Full Details

HS101: # Premises, furniture, furnishings, fittings, equipment, materials, and sleeping items (such as mattresses, and bedding) are kept safe, clean, well-maintained, and hygienically stored when not in use.

HS102: # Linen used by children or adults is hygienically laundered off-site or on-site.

HS103: # A procedure for the changing (and disposal, if appropriate) of nappies is displayed near the nappy changing facilities and consistently implemented. Documentation required: A procedure for the changing (and disposal, if appropriate) of nappies that aims to ensure:

• safe and hygienic practices; and
• that children are treated with dignity and respect.

HS104: The premises are located in a building that has a current fire evacuation scheme approved by Fire and Emergency New Zealand. Documentation required (written or digital): A current fire evacuation scheme approved by Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

HS105: There is an emergency plan and supplies to ensure the care and safety of children and adults at the service. Documentation required (written or digital): An emergency plan that includes at least:

• evacuation procedures specific to the premises and relevant to its location, which apply in different emergency situations and are consistent with the building’s fire evacuation scheme;
• designated assembly areas outside the building that keep children safe from further risk;
• a list of safety and emergency supplies and resources sufficient for the age and number of children and adults at the service and details of how these will be maintained and accessed in an emergency;
• details of the roles and responsibilities that will apply during an emergency;
• a communication plan for families and support services; and
• evidence of reviewing the plan annually and implementation of improved practices as required.

HS106: Adults providing education and care are familiar with relevant emergency drills and carry out each type of drill with children (as appropriate) on an, at least, 4-monthly basis. Documentation required (written or digital): A record of the emergency drills carried out and evidence of how evaluation of the drills has informed the annual review of the service’s emergency plan.

HS107: A procedure for monitoring children’s sleep is displayed and implemented and a record of children’s sleep times is kept. Documentation required (written or digital):
1. A procedure for monitoring children’s sleep. The procedure includes steps to ensure that children:

• do not have access to food or liquids while in bed; and
• are checked for warmth, breathing, and general well-being at least every 5-10 minutes, or more frequently according to individual needs.

2. A record of the time each child attending the service sleeps, and checks made by adults during that time.

HS108:
1. Equipment, premises and facilities are checked every day for hazards. Checks include at least:

• cleaning agents, medicines, poisons and other hazardous materials;
• electrical sockets and appliances;
• hazards present in kitchen or laundry facilities;
• vandalism, dangerous objects, and foreign materials;
• the condition and placement of learning, play and other equipment;
• windows and other areas of glass;
• poisonous plants;
• bodies of water; and
• heavy furniture, fixtures and equipment that could fall or topple and cause serious injury or damage.

2. Hazards are eliminated, isolated or minimised.
3. Injury/incident records are analysed to identify recurring and emerging hazards and appropriate action is taken. Documentation required (written or digital): A documented risk assessment and management system.

HS109: # The temperature of warm water delivered from any taps that children can access independently is no higher than 40°C, and comfortable for children at the centre to use.

HS110: # Water stored in any hot water cylinder is kept at a temperature of at least 60°C. Any malfunctioning hot water cylinder is inspected and repaired as necessary.

HS111: # All practicable steps are taken to ensure that noise levels do not unduly interfere with normal speech and/or communication or cause any child attending distress or harm.

HS112:  # Safe and hygienic practices are implemented with regard to any animals at the service (such as thorough handwashing after handling animals and ensuring animals can be kept separate from food preparation/eating spaces). All animals can be restrained if they pose a risk to children.

HS113: Whenever children leave the premises on an excursion:

• a risk assessment and management process is undertaken, and adult:child ratios are determined accordingly. Ratios are not less than the required adult:child ratio;
• first aid requirements in criterion HS119 are met in relation to those children and any children remaining at the premises;
• parents have given prior written approval to their child’s participation and of the proposed ratio, location and method of travel for: regular excursions at the time of enrolment; and special excursions prior to the excursion taking place;
• communication systems are in place so that people know where the children are, and adults can communicate with others as necessary; and
• the Person Responsible approves all excursions (regular and special) before they take place.

Documentation required (written or digital): A record of excursions that includes:

• the names of all adults and children involved;
• the time and date of the excursion;
• adult:child ratios;
• the location and method of travel;
• completed risk assessment and management process;
• evidence of parental permission and approval of adult:child ratios, location and method of travel for regular and special excursions; and
• the signature of the Person Responsible giving approval for the excursion to take place.

HS114: If children travel in a motor vehicle while in the care of the service:

• each child is restrained as required by Land Transport legislation;
• required adult:child ratios are maintained; and
• the written permission of a parent of the child is obtained before the travel begins (unless the child is travelling with their parent).

Documentation required:  Evidence of parental permission for any travel by motor vehicle. In most cases, this requirement will be met by the excursion records required for criterion HS113. However, services that provide transport for children to and/or from the service must also gain written permission from a parent upon enrolment.

HS115:  There is sufficient water that is safe to drink available to children at all times. Older children can access this water independently.
 # Food is available at appropriate times while children are attending. Where food is provided by the service, it is safe, of sufficient variety, quantity and quality to meet the nutritional and developmental needs of each child. Where food is provided by parents, the service encourages and promotes healthy eating guidelines.  Documentation required (written or digital): A record of all food provided by the service (not including food provided by parents for their own children). Records show the type of food provided and are kept for at least 3 months.

HS116: Children must be seated and supervised by an adult while eating. The adult does not need to be seated but must:

• have clear visibility of children eating;
• not be engaged in any other tasks that can take away their focus;
• be close enough to the children to intervene, if necessary; and
• know how to respond if a child is choking or has an adverse reaction.

Where food is provided by the service, foods that pose a high choking risk are not to be served unless prepared in accordance with best practice as set out in Ministry of Health’s guide: Reducing food-related choking for babies and young children at early learning services.  Where food is provided by parents, the service promotes best practices as set out in the Ministry of Health’s guide and must inform all parents at the time of enrolment how to access a copy of the guide: Reducing food-related choking for babies and young children at early learning services.

HS117: Applies only to services licensed for under 2-year-olds. Infants under the age of 6 months and other children unable to drink independently are held semi-upright when being fed. Any infant milk food given to a child under the age of 12 months is of a type approved by the child’s parent.

HS118:  # Maintain a comfortable temperature in rooms used by children (no lower than 18°C at 500mm above the floor), allowing for fluctuating temperatures for brief periods. If applicable, any thermometers fixed on walls are positioned out of children’s reach and no higher than 1500mm above the floor.

HS119:  There is an adult present at all times for every 25 children attending (or part thereof) that:

• holds a current first aid qualification gained from a New Zealand Qualification Authority accredited first aid training provider; or
• is a registered medical practitioner, nurse or midwife with a current practising certificate; or
• is a qualified ambulance officer or paramedic.

In the case of an emergency, such as those described in HS121, the required ratio of first aid qualified adults may be temporarily reduced to 1 adult for every 50 children for the duration of that situation.

If a child is injured, any required first aid is administered or supervised by an adult meeting these requirements.  Documentation required:  Copies of current first aid (or medical practising) certificates for adults counting towards this requirement.

HS120:  # All practicable steps are taken to ensure that children do not come into contact with any person (adult or child) on the premises who is suffering from a disease or condition likely to be passed onto children and likely to have a detrimental effect on them.  Specifically:

• the action specified in Schedule 1 is taken for any person (adult or child) suffering from particular infectious diseases; and
• children who become unwell while attending the service are kept at a safe distance from other children (to minimise the spread of infection) and returned to the care of a parent or other person authorised to collect the child without delay.

HS121: All practicable steps are taken to get immediate medical assistance for a child who is seriously injured or becomes seriously ill, and to notify a parent of what has happened.  Documentation required:
1. A record of all injuries, illnesses and incidents that occur at the service.  Records include:

• the child’s name;
• the date, time and description of the injury, illness or incident;
• actions taken and by whom; and
• evidence that parents have been informed.

2. A procedure outlining the service’s response to injury, illness and incident, including the review and implementation of practices as required.

HS122:  Medicine (prescription and non-prescription) is not given to a child unless it is given:

• by a doctor or ambulance personnel in an emergency; or
• by the parent of the child; or
• with the written authority (appropriate to the category of medicine) of a parent.

Before an adult at the service administers medicine, the person must check the medicine, dosage and time reflects the parent’s authorisation. Medicines are stored safety and appropriately, and are disposed of, or sent home with a parent (if supplied in relation to a specific child) after the specified time. Documentation required (written or digital):
1. A record of authorisation from parents for the administration of medicine, and acknowledgement medicine has been administered based on the category of medicine outlined in Schedule 2.
2. A record of all medicine (prescription and non-prescription) given to the children attending the service. Records include:

• child’s full name;
• name and amount of medicine given; and
• date and time medicine was administered and by whom.

HS123:  Adults responsible for administering medicine to children (other than their own) are provided with the necessary information, training, or instruction to do so safely and effectively. This may be from the child’s parent or whānau, or a health professional, as appropriate.

HS124:  Children are washed when they are soiled or pose a health risk to themselves or others.

HS125:  A written child protection policy and procedure is implemented that meets the requirements of the Children’s Act 2014.  The policy and procedure contain provisions for:

• the identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect;
• information about how the service will keep children safe from abuse and neglect; and
• how the service will respond to suspected child abuse and neglect.

The policy and procedure must be reviewed every 3 years to assess how well it has supported or would support the service’s response to child abuse and neglect. Documentation required (written or digital)

1. A written child protection policy that contains:

• provisions for the service’s identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect;
• information about the practices the service employs to keep children safe from abuse
• and neglect; and
• information about how the service will respond to suspected child abuse and neglect.

2. A procedure that sets out how the service will identify and respond to suspected child abuse and/or neglect.

3. Evidence the service has reviewed the policy and procedure every 3 years. As part of the review, the service must evaluate how well the policy and procedure works using at least one example of either:

• how well the policy and procedure has supported the service to respond; or
• how well the policy and procedure would support the service to respond using a hypothetical scenario.

HS126:  All practicable steps are taken to protect children from exposure to inappropriate material (for example, of an explicitly sexual or violent nature).

HS127: No person on the premises uses, or is under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance that has a detrimental effect on their functioning or behaviour during the service’s hours of operation.

HS128:
1. The Ministry of Education must be notified at the same time as any specified agencies when there is a serious injury, illness, or incident involving a child while at the service.

2. The Ministry of Education must also be notified as soon as possible if the service’s child protection policy requires a notification to any agency (such as Oranga Tamariki or New Zealand Police) relating to a child while attending the service.

3. The Ministry of Education must also be notified as soon as possible of the following incidents:

• a child leaves the premises without the knowledge of an adult, regardless of the duration;
• a child is locked inside the premises after operating hours;
• a child is taken from the service by someone not authorised in writing to do so;
• a child is left behind or goes missing during an excursion.

Documentation required (written or digital):  A copy of the notification sent to any specified agency, and summary of any notification or report of concern sent to Oranga Tamariki or New Zealand Police. Where applicable, a copy of the service’s investigation into the incident, including recorded outcomes and any supporting documentation.

C101: The service curriculum is consistent with any prescribed curriculum framework that applies to the service.

C102: The service curriculum is informed by assessment, planning and evaluation (documented and undocumented) that demonstrates an understanding of children’s learning, their interests, whānau and life contexts.

C103: Adults providing education and care engage in meaningful, positive interactions to enhance children’s learning and nurture reciprocal relationships.

C104: The practices of adults providing education and care demonstrate an understanding of children’s learning and development, and knowledge of relevant theories and practice in early childhood education.

C105: The service curriculum acknowledges and reflects the unique place of Māori as tangata whenua. Children are given the opportunity to develop knowledge and an understanding of the cultural heritages of both parties to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

C106: The service curriculum respects and supports the right of each child to be confident in their own culture and encourages children to understand and respect other cultures.

C107: The service curriculum is inclusive, and responsive to children as confident and competent learners. Children’s preferences are respected, and they are involved in decisions about their learning experiences.

C108: The service curriculum provides a language-rich environment that supports children’s learning.

C109: The service curriculum provides children with a range of experiences and opportunities to enhance and extend their learning and development – both indoors and outdoors, individually and in groups.

C110: The service curriculum supports children’s developing social competence and understanding of appropriate behaviour.

C111: Positive steps are taken to respect and acknowledge the aspirations held by parents and whānau for their children.

C112: Regular opportunities (formal and informal) are provided for parents to:

• communicate with adults providing education and care about their child, and share specific evidence of the child’s learning; and
• be involved in decision-making concerning their child’s learning.

C113: Information and guidance are sought when necessary, from agencies/services to enable adults providing education and care to work effectively with children and their parents.
Documentation required:  Documentation that provides evidence of the service’s compliance with criteria C101 – C113. Documentation may take a variety of forms to suit the service’s operation (such as portfolios, wall displays, policies and procedures) but must include: A record of information and guidance sought from agencies and/or services (C113). A process for providing positive guidance to encourage social competence in children (C110); A process for providing formal and informal opportunities for parents to: communicate with adults providing education and care about their child, and share specific evidence of the child’s learning; and be involved in decision-making concerning their child’s learning (C112); and

PF101: The design and layout of the premises:

• support varied indoor and outdoor experiences;
• support effective adult supervision without unduly limiting children’s access; and
• include quiet spaces, areas for active play, and space for varied individual and group learning experiences appropriate to the number, ages, and abilities of children.

PF102: The premises conform to any relevant bylaws of the local authority and the Building Act 2004.
Documentation required:
1. Code Compliance Certificate issued under section 95 of the Building Act 2004 for any building work undertaken, or alternatively, any other documentation that shows evidence of compliance.
2. If the premises fall under section 100 of the Building Act 2004, or section 108 of the Building Act 2004 applies:

• a copy of the current Annual Building Warrant of Fitness; or
• a copy of the compliance schedule if 12 months have not elapsed since the compliance schedule was first issued.

PF103: A sufficient quantity and range of indoor and outdoor furniture, equipment, and materials is provided to ensure children have timely access to appropriate learning challenges, experiences, and opportunities that support their developmental stages, abilities, and current and emerging interests.

PF104: All indoor and outdoor items and surfaces, furniture, equipment and materials are safe and suitable for their intended use.

PF105: # Floor surfaces are durable, safe, and suitable for the range of activities to be carried out at the service (including wet and messy play), and can easily be kept clean.

PF106: Any windows or other areas of glass accessible to children are either:

• made of safety glass; or
• covered by an adhesive film designed to hold the glass in place in the event of it being broken; or
• effectively guarded by barriers which prevent a child striking or falling against the glass.

PF107: There are sufficient spaces for equipment and material to be stored safely. Stored equipment and materials can be easily and safely accessed by adults, and where practicable, by children.

PF108: ☼ There is space (where children are not present) for adults working at the service to:

• use for planned breaks;
• meet privately with parents and colleagues;
• store curriculum support materials; and
• assess, plan and evaluate.

PF109: # ☼ There are hygienic facilities (other than those required for PF121) or alternative arrangements available for the preparation and cleaning up of paint and other art materials.

PF110: ☼ There is a telephone on which calls can be made to and from the service.

PF111: # Parts of the building or buildings used by children have:

• lighting (natural or artificial) that is appropriate to the activities offered or purpose of each room;
• ventilation (natural or mechanical) that allows sufficient fresh air to circulate (particularly in sanitary and sleep areas);
• safe and effective means of maintaining a comfortable room temperature; and
• acoustic absorption materials, if necessary, to reduce noise levels that may negatively affect children’s learning or wellbeing.

PF112: Outdoor activity space is:

• connected to the indoor activity space so that children can access it safely and easily (limiting outdoor access may be appropriate at times);
• safe, well-drained, and suitably surfaced for a variety of activities;
• enclosed by structures and/or fences and gates designed to ensure that children are not able to leave the premises without the knowledge of adults providing education and care;
• not unduly restricted by Resource Consent conditions with regards to its use by the service to provide for outdoor experiences; and
• available for the exclusive use of the service during hours of operation.

PF113: Applies only to services licensed for under 2-year-olds. There are safe and comfortable (indoor and outdoor) spaces for infants, toddlers or children not walking to lie, roll, creep, crawl, pull themselves up, learn to walk and to be protected from more mobile children. This does not prohibit infants and toddlers from moving throughout the premises or learning alongside older children. Food preparation and eating spaces

PF114: There is a safe and hygienic place for children attending to sit when eating.

PF115:  Food and drink is hygienically prepared, served and stored. ☼ Services not subject to National Programme 2 (NP2) under the Food Act 2014 have facilities that include:

• a means of:
  • keeping perishable food at or below 5°C;
  • keeping all foods protected from pests;
  • cooking and/or heating food to safe temperatures;
  • hygienically washing dishes;
• a sink connected to a hot water supply;
• adequate and suitable storage for food, utensils, and equipment; and
• food preparation surfaces that are easily maintained in a hygienic condition.

PF116: Kitchen and cooking facilities or appliances are designed, located or fitted with safety devices to ensure that children cannot access them without adult assistance or supervision.

PF117:  There is at least 1 toilet for every 15 persons. Persons are children aged 2 and older and adults counting towards minimum adult:child ratio requirements.
# Toilets are adequately separated from play and food preparation areas to minimise the spread of infection.
# Toilets for children capable of independent toileting are safe for them to use without adult help. At least one toilet is designed to provide a sense of privacy.

PF118: There is at least 1 tap delivering warm water (over an individual or shared handbasin) for every 15 persons. Persons are children attending and adults counting towards minimum adult:child ratio requirements.
# There are appropriate handwashing/drying facilities to minimise the spread of infection. Handwashing/drying facilities accessed after using the toilet are:

• adequately separated from play and food preparation areas; and
• are safe for children capable of independent toileting to use without adult help.

PF119: ☼There is a toilet and handwashing/drying facilities suitable for adults to use that minimises the spread of infection.

PF120:  # There are safe and stable nappy changing facilities that can be kept hygienically clean. These facilities are located in a designated area near to handwashing facilities and are adequately separated from areas of the service used for play or food preparation to prevent the spread of infection. The design, construction and location of the facilities ensure that:

• they are safe and appropriate for the age/weight and number of children needing to use them;
• children’s independence can be fostered as appropriate;
• children’s dignity and right to privacy is respected; and
• some visibility from another area of the service is possible.

PF121: # ☼ There are suitable facilities provided for washing sick or soiled children and a procedure outlining how hygiene and infection control outcomes will be met when washing sick and soiled children. Documentation required:  A procedure outlining how the service will ensure hygiene and infection control outcomes are met when washing sick or soiled children.

PF122: # ☼ There is space (away from where food is stored, prepared or eaten) where a sick child can:

• be temporarily kept at a safe distance from other children (to prevent cross-infection);
• lie down comfortably; and
• be supervised.

PF123: 1. There is a first aid kit that is:

• sufficient for the number of children at the service;
• easily recognisable and readily accessible to adults; and
• inaccessible to children.

2. There is a system for reviewing the first aid kit so that it stays well-stocked, with any used or expired items promptly replenished or replaced.

PF124: # Sleep furniture and items (such as cots, beds, stretchers or mattresses):

• allow children using them to lie flat;
• are of a safe design and arranged so that:
  • adults have clear access to at least one side length-wise;
  • there is sufficient air movement to minimise the risk of spreading illness in the area surrounding each child; and
  • children can sit or stand safely as they wake.

PF125:  Clean individual bedding (such as blankets, sheets, sleeping bags, and pillowcases) is provided so that children have adequate warmth while sleeping or resting.
# Sleep furniture and items (such as cots, beds, stretchers or mattresses) shared between children are securely covered with or made of a non-porous material (a material that does not allow liquid to pass through it) that:

• protects the item from becoming soiled;
• allows for easy cleaning (or is disposable); and
• does not present a suffocation hazard to children.

PF126: Sessional services only. Children aged 2 and older have a safe and comfortable place to sleep or rest, if necessary, like a bed, stretcher, or mattress.

PF127: All-day services only. There are suitable furniture or items (such as beds, stretchers, or mattresses) and space for children aged 2 and older to sleep or rest. If the sleep or rest area is part of the activity space, alternative activity spaces are available for children who are not sleeping or resting.

PF128: Sessional services only. 
1. A designated space is available for children under the age of 2 to have restful sleep. This space is designed and located to:

• minimise fluctuations in temperature, noise and lighting levels; and
• allow adequate supervision.

2. There is at least 1 sleep furniture or item (such as cots, beds, stretchers or mattresses) for every 5 children under the age of 2.

PF129: All-day services only.  
1. A designated space is available for children under the age of 2 to have restful sleep. This space is designed and located to:

• minimise fluctuations in temperature, noise and lighting levels; and
• allow adequate supervision.

2. There is at least 1 sleep furniture or item (such as cots, beds, stretchers, or mattresses) for every 2 children under the age of 2

GMA101: The following are prominently displayed at the service:

• the service’s current licence certificate; and
• the name and contact details of a person who parents, whānau and visitors can contact for questions about the service and/or to make a complaint about the service’s operation.

GMA102: Parents and whānau are provided with information on how to access the following, in either written or digital format:

• the Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008;
• the Licensing Criteria for Early Childhood Education and Care Centres 2008;
• information about any changes to the service’s licence status;
• the most recent Education Review Office report regarding the service;
• the full names and qualifications of each person counting towards regulated qualification requirements;
• information concerning their child;
• any fees charged by the service;
• how they can be involved in the service;
• the service’s operational documents;
• any planned reviews and consultation;
• the amount and details of the expenditure of any Ministry of Education funding received by the service; and
• the service’s procedure for parents and whānau to follow if they wish to make a complaint about the service. The procedure should include details on who to contact and the contact information for the local Ministry of Education office.

GMA103: There is evidence in either written or digital format that parents and whānau of children attending the service and adults providing education and care have been provided with opportunities to contribute to the development and review of the service’s operational documents.

GMA104: There is an ongoing review process that supports the service to maintain and implement operational policies and practices. The process supports improvements where changes are needed.
Documentation required (written or digital)

• a process for reviewing the service’s delivery of operational policies and practices;
• the process is consistent with criterion GMA103; and
• recorded outcomes from the review process.

GMA105: Suitable human resource management processes are implemented. Processes include:

• induction procedures into the service;
• provision for professional development;
• a definition of serious misconduct; and
• discipline/dismissal procedures.

GMA106: Before a person is employed or engaged as a children’s worker, as defined in the Children’s Act 2014, a safety check as required by that Act must be completed. A detailed record of each component of the safety check must be kept, and the date on which each step was taken must be recorded, including the date of the risk assessment required to be completed after all relevant information is obtained. These records must be kept by, or available to, the service provider as long as the person is employed or engaged. Every children’s worker must be safety checked every 3 years. Safety checks may be carried out by the employer or another person or organisation acting on their behalf.  Documentation required

• A written procedure for safety checking all children’s workers before employment or engagement of the worker commences that meets the safety checking requirements of the Children’s Act 2014.
• A record of all safety checks and the results.

GMA107: An annual plan guides the service’s operation. Note: this criterion only applies in respect of the Secretary’s assessment of probationary applications where the applicant does not hold a current licence and applications to amend a licence where the different legal entity does not hold a current licence. Documentation required: An annual plan identifying ‘who’, ‘what’, and ‘when’ in relation to key tasks the service intends to undertake each year.

GMA108: An annual budget guides financial expenditure. Note: this criterion only applies in respect of the Secretary’s assessment of probationary applications where the applicant does not hold a current licence and applications to amend a licence where the different legal entity does not hold a current licence.  Documentation required:  An annual budget setting out the service’s estimated revenue and expenses for the year. The budget includes at least:

• staffing costs, including leave entitlements;
• professional development costs;
• equipment and material costs for the ongoing purchase of new equipment and consumable materials; and
• provision for operational costs (such as electricity, telephone, food purchases and other day-to-day items) and maintenance of the premises as appropriate.

GMA109: Enrolment and attendance records are maintained for each child attending. Records are kept for at least 7 years. Documentation required:  Enrolment and attendance records for each child currently attending and for those who have attended in the previous 7 years. Records meet all the requirements of the ECE Funding Handbook.

GMA110:  Required documentation is made available as appropriate to parents and government officials having right of entry to the service under section 626 of the Education and Training Act 2020.

HS201: Premises, furniture, furnishings, fittings, equipment, materials, and sleeping items (such as mattresses, and bedding) are kept safe, clean, well-maintained, and hygienically stored when not in use.

HS202: Linen used by children or adults is hygienically laundered off-site or on-site.

HS203: A procedure for the changing (and disposal, if appropriate) of nappies is consistently implemented. Documentation required: A procedure for the changing (and disposal, if appropriate) of nappies that aims to ensure:

• safe and hygienic practices; and
• that children are treated with dignity and respect.

HS204: There is an emergency plan and supplies to ensure the care and safety of the children and educator at the home and when away from the home.
⚑ The written emergency plan must also include out-of-school care children if out-of-school care is being provided in the home:

Documentation required (written or digital)
 A written emergency plan that includes at least:

• evacuation procedures specific to the home and relevant to its location, which apply in different emergency situations and if applicable, are consistent with the building’s fire evacuation scheme;
• designated assembly areas outside the building that keep children safe from further risk;
• a list of safety and emergency supplies and resources sufficient for the age and number of children and adults present in the home and details of how these will be maintained and accessed in an emergency;
• a communication plan for families and support services; and
• evidence of reviewing the plan annually and implementation of improved practices as required.

HS205: Educators are familiar with relevant emergency drills and carry out each type of drill with children (as appropriate) on an, at least, 4-monthly basis. Documentation required (written or digital) A record of the emergency drills carried out and evidence of how evaluation of the drills has informed the annual review of the service’s emergency plan.
⚑ For services providing out-of-school care the record must include evidence of drills performed with enrolled children and out-of-school care children at the same time.

HS206 A procedure for monitoring children’s sleep is implemented, and information is communicated to parents about their child’s daily sleep patterns.
Documentation required A procedure for monitoring children’s sleep. The procedure ensures that children:

• do not have access to food or liquids while in bed; and
• are checked for warmth, breathing, and general wellbeing at least every 10–15 minutes (during day-time sleep), or more frequently according to individual needs.

HS207: 1. Equipment, premises and facilities are checked every day for hazards. Checks include at least:

• cleaning agents, medicines, poisons and other hazardous materials;
• electrical sockets and appliances;
• hazards present in kitchen or laundry facilities;
• vandalism, dangerous objects, and foreign materials;
• the condition and placement of learning, play and other equipment;
• windows and other areas of glass;
• poisonous plants;
• bodies of water; and
• heavy furniture, fixtures and equipment that could fall or topple and cause serious injury or damage.

2. Hazards are eliminated, isolated or minimised.
3. Injury/incident records are analysed to identify recurring and emerging hazards and appropriate action is taken.
Documentation required (written or digital): A documented risk assessment and management system.

HS208: All practicable steps are taken to ensure that noise levels do not unduly interfere with normal speech and/or communication or cause any child attending distress or harm.

HS209 Safe and hygienic practices are implemented with regard to any animals at the service (such as thorough handwashing after handling animals and ensuring animals can be kept separate from food preparation/eating spaces). All animals can be restrained if they pose a risk to children.

HS210: Whenever children leave the premises on an excursion:

• a risk assessment and management process is undertaken;
• a supervision plan specific to the excursion is developed and implemented;
• parents have given prior written approval of their child’s participation, location and method of travel for:
  • regular excursions at the time of enrolment;
  • special excursions prior to the excursion taking place; and
• communication systems in place so that people know where the children are, and the educator can communicate with others as necessary.

Documentation required (written or digital): A record of excursions that includes:

• the names of all adults and children involved;
• the time and date of the excursion;
• the location and method of travel;
• completed risk assessment and management process; and
• evidence of parental permission and approval of adult:child ratios, location and method of travel for regular and special excursions; and
• the signature of the Person Responsible giving approval for the excursion to take place.

HS211: If children travel in a motor vehicle while in the care of the service:

• each child is restrained as required by Land Transport legislation;
• the written permission of a parent of the child is obtained before the travel begins.

Documentation required: Evidence of parental permission for any travel by motor vehicle. In most cases, this requirement will be met by the excursion records required for criterion HS210.

HS212:  There is sufficient water that is safe to drink available to children at all times. Older children can access this water independently.

Food is available at appropriate times while children are attending. Where food is provided by the educator, it is safe, of sufficient variety, quantity and quality to meet the nutritional and developmental needs of each child. Where food is provided by parents, the service encourages and promotes healthy eating guidelines.

Documentation required (written or digital): A record of all food provided by the educator (not including food provided by parents for their own children). Records show the type of food provided and are kept for at least 3 months.

HS213: Children must be seated and supervised by an adult while eating. The educator does not need to be seated but must:

• have clear visibility of children eating;
• not be engaged in any other tasks that can take away their focus;
• be close enough to the children to intervene, if necessary; and
• know how to respond if a child is choking or has an adverse reaction.

Where food is provided by the service, foods that pose a high choking risk are not to be served unless prepared in accordance with best practice as set out in Ministry of Health’s guide: Reducing food-related choking for babies and young children at early learning services.  Where food is provided by parents, the service promotes best practices as set out in the Ministry of Health’s guide and must inform all parents at the time of enrolment how to access a copy of the guide: Reducing food-related choking for babies and young children at early learning services.

HS214: Infants under the age of 6 months and other children unable to drink independently are held semi-upright when being fed. Any infant milk food given to a child under the age of 12 months is of a type approved by the child’s parent.

HS215:  Maintain a comfortable temperature in rooms used by children (no lower than 18°C at 500mm above the floor), allowing for fluctuating temperatures for brief periods. If applicable, any thermometers fixed on walls are positioned out of children’s reach and no higher than 1500mm above the floor.

HS216:  There is an educator present at all times while children are attending, who: • holds a current first aid qualification gained from a New Zealand Qualification Authority accredited first aid training provider; or

• is a registered medical practitioner, nurse or midwife with a current practising certificate; or
• is a qualified ambulance officer or paramedic.

If access to first aid training is limited due to circumstances beyond the service provider’s control, the service provider must ensure that educators have knowledge of first aid and gain a first aid qualification within 4 months of starting work at the service. If a child is injured, any required first aid is administered or supervised by an adult meeting these requirements

Documentation required:  Copies of current first aid (or medical practising) certificates for adults counting towards this requirement.  Where access to first aid training for an educator is limited, a record of the actions taken by the service provider to ensure the educator has knowledge of first aid and achieves a first aid qualification within 4 months of starting work at the service.

HS217:  # All practicable steps are taken to ensure that children do not come into contact with any person (adult or child) on the premises who is suffering from a disease or condition likely to be passed onto children and likely to have a detrimental effect on them.  Specifically, any child who becomes unwell while attending the service or receiving out-of-school care is kept at a safe distance from other children (to minimise the spread of infection) and returned to the care of a parent or other person authorised to collect the child without delay.
⚑ Out-of-school care must not be provided to children who are absent from school due to illness.

HS218: All practicable steps are taken to get immediate medical assistance for a child who is seriously injured or becomes seriously ill, and to notify a parent of what has happened.  Documentation required:
1. A record of all injuries, illnesses and incidents that occur at the service.  Records include:

• the child’s name;
• the date, time and description of the injury, illness or incident;
• actions taken and by whom; and
• evidence that parents have been informed.

2. A procedure outlining the service’s response to injury, illness and incident, including the review and implementation of practices as required.

HS219:  Medicine (prescription and non-prescription) is not given to a child unless it is given:

• by a doctor or ambulance personnel in an emergency; or
• by the parent of the child; or
• with the written authority (appropriate to the category of medicine) of a parent.

Before an adult at the service administers medicine, the person must check the medicine, dosage and time reflects the parent’s authorisation. Medicines are stored safety and appropriately, and are disposed of, or sent home with a parent (if supplied in relation to a specific child) after the specified time. Documentation required (written or digital):
1. A record of authorisation from parents for the administration of medicine, and acknowledgement medicine has been administered based on the category of medicine outlined in Schedule 2.
2. A record of all medicine (prescription and non-prescription) given to the children attending the service. Records include:

• child’s full name;
• name and amount of medicine given; and
• date and time medicine was administered and by whom.

HS220:  Educators administering medicine to children (other than their own) are provided with the necessary information, training, or instruction to do so safely and effectively. This may be from the child’s parent or whānau, or health professional, as appropriate.

HS221:  Children are washed when they are soiled or pose a health risk to themselves or others.

HS222:  A written child protection policy and procedure is implemented that meets the requirements of the Children’s Act 2014.  The policy and procedure contain provisions for:

• the identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect;
• information about how the service will keep children safe from abuse and neglect; and
• how the service will respond to suspected child abuse and neglect.

The policy and procedure must be reviewed every 3 years to assess how well it has supported or would support the service’s response to child abuse and neglect. Documentation required (written or digital)

1. A written child protection policy that contains:

• provisions for the service’s identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect;
• information about the practices the service employs to keep children safe from abuse
• and neglect; and
• information about how the service will respond to suspected child abuse and neglect.

2. A procedure that sets out how the service will identify and respond to suspected child abuse and/or neglect.

3. Evidence the service has reviewed the policy and procedure every 3 years. As part of the review, the service must evaluate how well the policy and procedure works using at least one example of either:

• how well the policy and procedure has supported the service to respond; or
• how well the policy and procedure would support the service to respond using a hypothetical scenario.

HS223:  All practicable steps are taken to protect children from exposure to inappropriate material (for example, of an explicitly sexual or violent nature).

HS224: Coordinators and educators must not use, or be under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance that has a detrimental effect on their functioning or behaviour while responsible for children attending the service.

HS225: All practicable steps are taken to ensure that children do not come into contact with any person on the premises who is under the influence of alcohol or any other substance that has a detrimental effect on their functioning or behaviour.

HS226:  No person on the premises smokes or vapes in any area which is available for use by children or for food preparation while children are attending the service.

HS227: 1. The Ministry of Education must be notified at the same time as any specified agencies when there is a serious injury, illness, or incident involving a child while at the service.

2. The Ministry of Education must also be notified as soon as possible if the service’s child protection policy requires a notification to any agency (such as Oranga Tamariki or New Zealand Police) relating to a child while attending the service.

3. The Ministry of Education must also be notified as soon as possible of the following incidents:

• a child leaves the premises without the knowledge of an adult, regardless of the duration;
• a child is locked inside the premises after operating hours;
• a child is taken from the service by someone not authorised in writing to do so;
• a child is left behind or goes missing during an excursion.

Documentation required (written or digital):  A copy of the notification sent to any specified agency, and summary of any notification or report of concern sent to Oranga Tamariki or New Zealand Police. Where applicable, a copy of the service’s investigation into the incident, including recorded outcomes and any supporting documentation.

C201: The service curriculum is consistent with any prescribed curriculum framework that applies to the service.

C202: The service curriculum is informed by assessment, planning and evaluation (documented and undocumented) that demonstrates an understanding of children’s learning, their interests, whānau and life contexts.

C203: Adults providing education and care engage in meaningful, positive interactions to enhance children’s learning and nurture reciprocal relationships.

C204: The practices of adults providing education and care demonstrate an understanding of children’s learning and development, and knowledge of relevant theories and practice in early childhood education.

C205: The service curriculum acknowledges and reflects the unique place of Māori as tangata whenua. Children are given the opportunity to develop knowledge and an understanding of the cultural heritages of both parties to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

C206: The service curriculum respects and supports the right of each child to be confident in their own culture and encourages children to understand and respect other cultures.

C207: The service curriculum is inclusive, and responsive to children as confident and competent learners. Children’s preferences are respected, and they are involved in decisions about their learning experiences.

C208: The service curriculum provides a language-rich environment that supports children’s learning.

C209: The service curriculum provides children with a range of experiences and opportunities to enhance and extend their learning and development – both indoors and outdoors, individually and in groups.

C210: The service curriculum supports children’s developing social competence and understanding of appropriate behaviour.

C211: Positive steps are taken to respect and acknowledge the aspirations held by parents and whānau for their children.

C212: Regular opportunities (formal and informal) are provided for parents to:

• communicate with adults providing education and care about their child, and share specific evidence of the child’s learning; and
• be involved in decision-making concerning their child’s learning.

C213: Information and guidance is sought when necessary, from agencies/services to enable adults providing education and care to work effectively with children and their parents.
Documentation required:  Documentation that provides evidence of the service’s compliance with criteria C201 – C213. Documentation may take a variety of forms to suit the service’s operation (such as portfolios, wall displays, policies and procedures) but must include:

• A record of information and guidance sought from agencies and/or services (C213).
• A process for providing positive guidance to encourage social competence in children (C210)
• A process for providing formal and informal opportunities for parents to:
  • communicate with adults providing education and care about their child, and
  • share specific evidence of the child’s learning; and be involved in decision-making concerning their child’s learning (C212).
• A record of information and guidance sought from agencies and/or services (C213).

PF201: The design and layout of the premises:

• support varied indoor and outdoor experiences;
• support effective adult supervision without unduly limiting children’s access; and
• include quiet spaces, areas for active play, and space for varied individual and group learning experiences appropriate to the number, ages, and abilities of children.

PF202: The premises conform to any relevant bylaws of the local authority and the Building Act 2004.
Documentation required:
1. Code Compliance Certificate issued under section 95 of the Building Act 2004 for any building work undertaken, or alternatively, any other documentation that shows evidence of compliance.
2. Current Annual Building Warrant of Fitness (if the premises require a compliance schedule under section 100 of the Building Act 2004).

PF203: A variety of equipment and materials is provided to ensure children have access to appropriate learning, challenges, experiences, and opportunities that support their developmental stages, abilities, and current and emerging interests.

PF204: If infants, toddlers or children not walking attend, there are safe and comfortable (indoor and outdoor) spaces for them to lie, roll, creep, crawl, pull themselves up, learn to walk, and to be protected from more mobile children. This does not prohibit infants and toddlers from moving throughout the premises learning alongside older children.

PF205: Floor surfaces are durable, safe, and suitable for the range of activities to be carried out at the service (including wet and messy play), and can easily be kept clean.

PF206: There are spaces for the safe storage of children’s play equipment, personal belongings, cleaning materials, and confidential administrative records.

PF207: There are hygienic facilities (other than those required by PF217) or alternative arrangements available for the preparation and cleaning up of paint and other art materials.

PF208: A telephone is available for calls to and from the premises.

PF209: Parts of the home used by children have:

• lighting (natural or artificial) that is appropriate to the activities offered or purpose of each room;
• ventilation (natural or mechanical) that allows sufficient fresh air to circulate (particularly in sanitary and sleep areas); and
• a safe and effective means of maintaining a comfortable room te

PF210: There is an outdoor activity space that is:

• easily accessible and available to children;
• enclosed by structures and/or fences and gates designed to ensure that children cannot leave the premises without the help or knowledge of the educator; and
• safe, well-drained, and suitably surfaced for a variety of activities.

PF211: There is a safe and hygienic place for children attending to sit when eating.

PF212: Food and drink is hygienically prepared, served and stored. There are facilities that include:

• a means of:
  • keeping perishable food at or below 5°C;
  • keeping all foods protected from pests;
  • cooking and/or heating food to safe temperatures; o hygienically washing dishes;
• a sink connected to a hot water supply;
• adequate and suitable storage for food, utensils, and equipment; and
• food preparation surfaces that are easily maintained in a

PF213: There is space (away from where food is stored, prepared, or eaten) where a sick child can:

• be temporarily kept at a safe distance from other children (to prevent cross-infection);
• lie down comfortably; and
• be supervised.

PF214:
1. There is a first aid kit that is:

• sufficient for the number of children at the service;
• easily recognisable and readily accessible to adults; and
• inaccessible to children.

2. There is a system for reviewing the first aid kit so that it stays well-stocked, with any used or expired items promptly replenished or replaced.

PF215:  There is a toilet and hygienic handwashing and drying facilities suitable for the use of the children attending.

PF216: Where children wearing nappies attend, there are safe and hygienic nappy changing facilities.

PF217:  There is a plumbing fixture (such as a shower, shub or bath) for washing sick or soiled children.

PF218: There is space available for the restful sleep of children who need it at any time they are attending.

PF219: Sleep furniture and items (such as cots, beds, stretchers or mattresses):

• allow children using them to lie flat;
• are of a safe design and arranged so that:
  • adults have clear access to at least one side length-wise;
  • there is sufficient air movement to minimise the risk of spreading illness in the area surrounding each child; and
  • children can sit or stand safely as they wake.

PF220:  Clean individual bedding (such as blankets, sheets, sleeping bags, and pillowcases) is provided so that children have adequate warmth while sleeping or resting. Sleep furniture and items (such as cots, beds, stretchers or mattresses) shared between children are securely covered with or made of a non-porous material (a material that does not allow liquid to pass through it) that:

• does not present a suffocation hazard to children
• protects the item from becoming soiled;
• allows for easy cleaning (or is disposable); and

GMA201: Parents and whānau are provided with information on how to access the following, in either written or digital format:

• the Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008;
• the Licensing Criteria for Home-Based Educare and Care Services 2008;
• information about any changes to the service’s licence status;
• the most recent Education Review Office report regarding the service;
• the full names and qualifications of each person counting towards regulated qualification requirements;
• information concerning their child;
• any fees charged by the service;
• how they can be involved in the service;
• the service’s operational documents;
• any planned reviews and consultation;
• the amount and details of the expenditure of any Ministry of Education funding received by the service; and
• a procedure for parents and whānau to follow if they wish to make a complaint about the service. The procedure should include details on who to contact and the contact information for the local Ministry of Education office.

⚑ For services offering out-of-school care, evidence of:

• a notice advising parents if the home their child is attending will have children receiving out-of-school care; and
• parental acknowledgment of the notice

GMA202: There is evidence in either written or digital format that parents and whānau of children attending the service and adults providing education and care have been provided with opportunities to contribute to the development and review of the service’s operational documents.

GMA203: There is an ongoing review process that supports the service to maintain and implement operational policies and practices. The process supports improvements where changes are needed.
Documentation required (written or digital)

• a process for reviewing the service’s delivery of operational policies and practices;
• the process is consistent with criterion GMA202; and
• recorded outcomes from the review process.

GMA204: Suitable human resource management processes are implemented. Processes include:

• induction procedures into the service;
• provision for professional development;
• a definition of serious misconduct; and
• discipline/dismissal procedures.

GMA205: Before a person is employed or engaged as a children’s worker, as defined in the Children’s Act 2014, a safety check as required by that Act must be completed. A detailed record of each component of the safety check must be kept, and the date on which each step was taken must be recorded, including the date of the risk assessment required to be completed after all relevant information is obtained. These records must be kept by, or available to, the service provider as long as the person is employed or engaged. Every children’s worker must be safety checked every 3 years. Safety checks may be carried out by the employer or another person or organisation acting on their behalf.  Documentation required

• A written procedure for safety checking all children’s workers before employment or engagement of the worker commences that meets the safety checking requirements of the Children’s Act 2014.
• A record of all safety checks and the results.

GMA206: An annual plan guides the service’s operation. Note: this criterion only applies in respect of the Secretary’s assessment of probationary applications where the applicant does not hold a current licence and applications to amend a licence where the different legal entity does not hold a current licence. Documentation required: An annual plan identifying ‘who’, ‘what’, and ‘when’ in relation to key tasks the service intends to undertake each year.

GMA207: An annual budget guides financial expenditure. Note: this criterion only applies in respect of the Secretary’s assessment of probationary applications where the applicant does not hold a current licence and applications to amend a licence where the different legal entity does not hold a current licence.  Documentation required:  An annual budget setting out the service’s estimated revenue and expenses for the year. The budget includes at least:

• staffing costs, including leave entitlements;
• professional development costs;
• equipment and material costs for the ongoing purchase of new equipment and consumable materials; and
• provision for operational costs (such as electricity, telephone, food purchases and other day-to-day items) and maintenance of the premises as appropriate.

GMA208: Enrolment and attendance records for each child currently attending and for those who have attended in the previous 7 years. Records meet all the requirements of the ECE Funding Handbook.

GMA209:  Required documentation is made available as appropriate to parents and government officials having right of entry to the service under section 626 of the Education and Training Act 2020.

HS301: The hospital from which the service operates has been granted certification under the Health and Disability Services (Safety) Act 2001 either:

• for a period of at least 3 years; or
• for a period of less than 3 years, but the lesser period of certification does not reflect problems identified with requirements relating to the hospital’s health and safety practices that would affect children participating in the ECE service.

Documentation required

• Copy of the current certificate issued to the hospital under the Health and Disability Services (Safety) Act 2001; and
• If the certificate denotes a certification period of less than 3 years, a copy of the Corrective Action Plan from the hospital’s Audit Report, showing that failure to meet health and safety practices requirements that affect children participating in the ECE service is not the reason for a shorter certification period being granted.

HS302: Premises, furniture, furnishings, fittings, equipment, and materials used by children as part of the ECE programme are kept safe, hygienic and maintained in good condition.

HS303: Designated assembly areas for evacuation purposes outside the building keep children safe from further risk.

HS304: Adults providing education and care are familiar with relevant emergency drills. Documentation required: A record of the emergency drills carried out.

HS305: Safe and hygienic practices are implemented with regard to any animals at the service (such as thorough handwashing after handling animals and ensuring animals can be kept separate from food preparation/eating spaces). All animals can be restrained if they pose a risk to children.

HS306: Whenever children leave the premises on an excursion:

• a risk assessment and management process is undertaken, and adult:child ratios are determined accordingly. Ratios are not less than the required adult:child ratios;
• parents have given prior written approval to their child’s participation and of the proposed ratios, location and method of travel; and
• communication systems are in place so that people know where the children are, and adults can communicate with others as necessary.

Documentation required (written or digital) A record of excursions that includes:

• the names of all adults and children involved;
• the time and date of excursion;
• the location and method of travel;
• completed risk assessment and management process; and
• evidence of parental permission and approval of adult:child ratios, location and method of travel.

HS307: If children travel in a motor vehicle while in the care of the service:

• each child is restrained as required by the Land Transport legislation;
• required adult:child ratios are maintained; and
• the written permission of a parent of the child is obtained before the travel begins (when children are not travelling with their parent).

Documentation required: Evidence of parental permission for any travel by motor vehicle as part of the ECE programme.

HS308: Maintain a comfortable temperature in any ECE Activity Room used by children (no lower than 18°C at 500mm above the floor), allowing for fluctuating temperatures for brief periods. If applicable, any thermometers fixed on walls are positioned out of children’s reach and no higher than 1500mm above the floor.

HS309:
1. Any ECE Activity Room and equipment used by children as part of the ECE programme are checked every day for hazards. Checks include at least:

• cleaning agents, medicines, poisons and other hazardous materials;
• electrical sockets and appliances;
• vandalism, dangerous objects, and foreign materials;
• the conditions and placement of learning, play and other equipment;
• bodies of water; and
• heavy furniture, fixtures and equipment that could fall or topple and cause serious injury or damage.

2. Hazards are eliminated, isolated or minimised.
Documentation required (written or digital): A documented risk assessment and management system.

HS310: All practicable steps are taken to ensure that noise levels in any ECE Activity Room do not unduly interfere with normal speech and/or communication, or cause any child participating in the service distress or harm.

HS311:  Medicine (prescription and non-prescription) is not given to a child unless it is given by authorised personnel, in an emergency or as part of the child’s treatment as a patient of the hospital.

HS312:  A written child protection policy and procedure is implemented that meets the requirements of the Children’s Act 2014.  The policy and procedure contain provisions for:

• the identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect;
• information about how the service will keep children safe from abuse and neglect; and
• how the service will respond to suspected child abuse and neglect.

The policy and procedure must be reviewed every 3 years to assess how well it has supported or would support the service’s response to child abuse and neglect. Documentation required (written or digital)

1. A written child protection policy that contains:

• provisions for the service’s identification and reporting of child abuse and neglect;
• information about the practices the service employs to keep children safe from abuse
• and neglect; and
• information about how the service will respond to suspected child abuse and neglect.

2. A procedure that sets out how the service will identify and respond to suspected child abuse and/or neglect.

3. Evidence the service has reviewed the policy and procedure every 3 years. As part of the review, the service must evaluate how well the policy and procedure works using at least one example of either:

• how well the policy and procedure has supported the service to respond; or
• how well the policy and procedure would support the service to respond using a hypothetical scenario.

HS313:  All practicable steps are taken to protect children from exposure to inappropriate material (for example, of an explicitly sexual or violent nature).

HS314: Adults providing education and care must not use, or be under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance that has a detrimental effect on their functioning or behaviour while responsible for children participating in the service.

HS315: All practicable steps are taken to ensure that children do not come into contact with any person on the premises who is under the influence of alcohol or any other substance that has a detrimental effect on their functioning or behaviour.

C301: The service curriculum is consistent with any prescribed curriculum framework that applies to the service.

C302: The service curriculum is informed by assessment, planning and evaluation (documented and undocumented) that demonstrates an understanding of children’s learning, their interests, whānau and life contexts.

C303: Adults providing education and care engage in meaningful, positive interactions to enhance children’s learning and nurture reciprocal relationships.

C304: The practices of adults providing education and care demonstrate an understanding of children’s learning and development, and knowledge of relevant theories and practice in early childhood education.

C305: The service curriculum acknowledges and reflects the unique place of Māori as tangata whenua. Children are given the opportunity to develop knowledge and an understanding of the cultural heritages of both parties to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

C306: The service curriculum respects and supports the right of each child to be confident in their own culture and encourages children to understand and respect other cultures.

C307: The service curriculum is inclusive, and responsive to children as confident and competent learners. Children’s preferences are respected, and they are involved in decisions about their learning experiences.

C308: The service curriculum provides a language-rich environment that supports children’s learning.

C309: The service curriculum provides children with a range of experiences and opportunities to enhance and extend their learning and development – both indoors and outdoors, individually and in groups.

C310: The service curriculum supports children’s developing social competence and understanding of appropriate behaviour.

C311: Positive steps are taken to respect and acknowledge the aspirations held by parents and whānau for their children.

C312: Regular opportunities (formal and informal) are provided for parents to:

• communicate with adults providing education and care about their child, and share specific evidence of the child’s learning; and
• be involved in decision-making concerning their child’s learning.

C313: Information and guidance is sought when necessary, from agencies/services to enable adults providing education and care to work effectively with children and their parents.
Documentation required:  Documentation that provides evidence of the service’s compliance with criteria C301 – C313. Documentation may take a variety of forms to suit the service’s operation (such as portfolios, wall displays, policies and procedures) but must include:

• A process for providing positive guidance to encourage social competence in children (C310);

• A process for providing formal and informal opportunities for parents to:
  • communicate with adults providing education and care about their child, and share specific evidence of the child’s learning; and
  • be involved in decision-making concerning their child’s learning (C312); and

• A record of information and guidance sought from agencies and/or services (C313).

PF301: The hospital from which the service operates has been granted certification under the Health and Disability Services (Safety) Act 2001 either:

• for a period of at least 3 years; or
• for a period of less than 3 years, but the lesser period of certification does not reflect problems identified with requirements relating to the hospital’s premises and facilities that would affect children participating in the ECE service.

Documentation required:

• Copy of the current certificate issued to the hospital under the Health and Disability Services (Safety) Act 2001; and
• If the certificate denotes a certification period of less than 3 years, a copy of the Corrective Action Plan from the hospital’s Audit Report, showing that failure to meet premises and facilities requirements that affect children participating in the ECE service is not the reason for a shorter certification period being granted.

PF302: A sufficient quantity and variety of furniture, equipment, and materials is provided to ensure children have timely access to appropriate learning challenges, experiences, and opportunities that support their developmental stages, abilities, and current and emerging interests.

PF303: All indoor and outdoor items and surfaces, furniture, equipment and materials are safe and suitable for their intended use.

PF304: There are spaces for the safe storage of equipment and materials.

PF305: There is space (where children are not present) for adults working at the service to:

• use for planned breaks;
• meet privately with parents and colleagues;
• store curriculum support materials; and
• assess, plan and evaluate.

PF306: There are hygienic facilities (other than those used for body wash) or alternative arrangements available for the preparation and cleaning up of paint and other art materials.

PF307: The design and layout of any ECE Activity Room supports effective adult supervision and facilitates a range of different types of learning experiences that are appropriate to the number, ages, abilities, and specific mobility or treatment needs of the children likely to use it.

PF308: There are safe and comfortable spaces in any ECE Activity Room for infants, toddlers, or children not walking to lie, roll, creep, crawl, pull themselves up, learn to walk, and to be protected from more mobile children. This does not prohibit infants and toddlers from moving throughout the premises, learning alongside older children.

PF309: Floor surfaces in any ECE Activity Room are durable, safe and suitable for the range of activities to be carried out at the service (including wet and messy play), and can easily be kept clean.

PF310: A telephone or other means of communication is available in the ECE Activity Room to enable adults providing education and care to call for assistance when necessary.

PF311: There are facilities (or appropriate arrangements in place) for hygienic handwashing and drying in any ECE Activity Room.

GMA301: The following are prominently displayed at the service:

• the service’s current licence certificate; and
• the name and contact details of a person who parents, whānau and visitors can contact for questions about the service and/or to make a complaint about the service’s operation.

GMA302: Parents and whānau are provided with information on how to access the following, in either written or digital format:

• the Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008;
• the Licensing Criteria for Hospital-based Education and Care Services 2008;
• information about any changes to the service’s licence status;
• the most recent Education Review Office report regarding the service;
• the full names and qualifications of each person counting towards regulated qualification requirements;
• information concerning their child;
• any fees charged by the service;
• how they can be involved in the service;
• the service’s operational documents;
• any planned reviews and consultation;
• the amount and details of the expenditure of any Ministry of Education funding received by the service; and
• a procedure for parents and whānau to follow if they wish to make a complaint about the service. The procedure should include details on who to contact and the contact information for the local Ministry of Education office.

GMA303: There is evidence in either written or digital format that parents and whānau of children attending the service and adults providing education and care have been provided with opportunities to contribute to the development and review of the service’s operational documents.

GMA304: There is an ongoing review process that supports the service to maintain and implement operational policies and practices. The process supports improvements where changes are needed.
Documentation required (written or digital)

• a process for reviewing the service’s delivery of operational policies and practices;
• the process is consistent with criterion GMA303; and
• recorded outcomes from the review process.

GMA305: Suitable human resource management processes are implemented. Processes include:

• induction procedures into the service;
• provision for professional development;
• a definition of serious misconduct; and
• discipline/dismissal procedures.

GMA306: Before a person is employed or engaged as a children’s worker, as defined in the Children’s Act 2014, a safety check as required by that Act must be completed. A detailed record of each component of the safety check must be kept, and the date on which each step was taken must be recorded, including the date of the risk assessment required to be completed after all relevant information is obtained. These records must be kept by, or available to, the service provider as long as the person is employed or engaged. Every children’s worker must be safety checked every 3 years. Safety checks may be carried out by the employer or another person or organisation acting on their behalf. 
Documentation required:

• A written procedure for safety checking all children’s workers before employment or engagement of the worker commences that meets the safety checking requirements of the Children’s Act 2014.
• A record of all safety checks and the results.

GMA307: An annual plan guides the service’s operation. Note: this criterion only applies in respect of the Secretary’s assessment of probationary applications where the applicant does not hold a current licence and applications to amend a licence where the different legal entity does not hold a current licence. Documentation required: An annual plan identifying ‘who’, ‘what’, and ‘when’ in relation to key tasks the service intends to undertake each year.

GMA308: An annual budget guides financial expenditure. Note: this criterion only applies in respect of the Secretary’s assessment of probationary applications where the applicant does not hold a current licence and applications to amend a licence where the different legal entity does not hold a current licence.  Documentation required:  An annual budget setting out the service’s estimated revenue and expenses for the year. The budget includes at least:

• staffing costs, including leave entitlements;
• professional development costs;
• equipment and material costs for the ongoing purchase of new equipment and consumable materials; and
• provision for operational costs and maintenance of the premises as appropriate.

GMA309: Adults providing education and care have access to information held by the hospital for each child participating in the service. Attendance records are maintained for each participating child. Records are kept for at least 7 years.
Documentation required:  Attendance records for each child currently participating and for those who have participated in the previous 7 years. Records meet all the requirements of the ECE Funding Handbook.

GMA310:  Required documentation is made available as appropriate to parents and government officials having right of entry to the service under section 626 of the Education and Training Act 2020.