Quality Area 3 – Physical environment

Standard 3.1 Design - The design of the facilities is appropriate for the operation of a service.

Case study 1

This before and after school and vacation care service situated in a regional city is based in a two-room cottage on the grounds of the local school. The service has access to other indoor spaces used by the school. This includes the newly refurbished kitchen and a meeting space for staff meetings. The service also uses the school’s playground, which includes a large grass area, sandpit and an area with fixed playground equipment. During vacation care when more children attend, the service also makes use of the school hall.

Case study 2

This family day care service is situated in a regional town close to a major city. The coordination unit is located within a purpose-built integrated child and family service, which includes a long day care program, maternal and child health centre and a branch library. The service also has community spaces that are available to local community groups. The coordination unit makes use of these spaces for professional gatherings, such as team meetings, reflective practice meetings and professional learning sessions for educators.

Case study 3

This preschool / kindergarten is located in a town situated in a tropical setting. The service philosophy highlights the uniqueness and potential of children and the significance of children’s families, as their first and most important teachers. The philosophy also stresses the importance of the physical environment, including nature pedagogy, in supporting children’s learning and development. 

Standard 3.2 Use - The service environment is inclusive, promotes competence and supports exploration and play-based learning.

Case study 1 

Family day care educators working in the outer suburbs of the city provide diverse home environments, including the indoor and outdoor play spaces, to enhance the learning and development of the children in their care. The service’s coordination unit offers guidance and support for educators to consider theorists and alternative approaches to creating welcoming and inclusive play-based learning spaces. The unit also hosts a regular play session where educators share ideas, resources and engage in professional conversations.

Case study 2

This purpose-built, community managed preschool / kindergarten is located in a regional town. The service team is committed to caring for the environment and to sustainable practice and this is reflected in their service philosophy, the educational program and daily practice. The service was built to face north, to take advantage of sunlight for heat and light. It uses solar panels and an Envirocycle system for the management of waste water.