Quality Area 7 – Governance and leadership

The aim of Quality Area 7 under the National Quality Standard is to support effective leadership and management of the service that contributes to quality environments for children’s learning and development. Well-documented policies and procedures, well-maintained records, shared values, clear direction and reflective practices enable the service to function as a learning community.

An ongoing cycle of planning and review, including engagement with families, creates a setting for continuous improvement.

Governance and Leadership
Standard 7.1	Governance	Governance supports the operation of a quality service.
Element 7.1.1	Service philosophy and purpose	A statement of philosophy guides all aspects of the service’s operations.
Element 7.1.2	Management Systems	Systems are in place to manage risk and enable the effective management and operation of a quality service.
Element 7.1.3	Roles and responsibilities	Roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, and understood, and support effective decision making and operation of the service.
Standard 7.2	Leadership	Effective leadership builds and promotes a positive organisational culture and professional learning community.
Element 7.2.1	Continuous improvement	There is an effective self-assessment and quality improvement process in place.
Element 7.2.2	Educational leadership	The educational leader is supported and leads the development and implementation of the educational program and assessment and planning cycle.
Element 7.2.3	Development of professionals	Educators, co-ordinators and staff members’ performance is regularly evaluated and individual plans are in place to support learning and development.