Transcript Slide 1
Peer Review on Early Years
Sofia, 24-25 March 2014
Early Childhood Education and Care:
the EU Framework
Mafalda Leal
Senior Policy Coordinator
European Institutions
Eurochild
members
* Facilitate exchange
of knowledge & good
practice
* Disseminate
information on latest
EU developments
* Support national
advocay efforts
* Promote joint work
& partnerships
*Share information &
expertise from members
* Influence decisionmaking through
representation, policy
positions & consultations
* Encourage children’s
participation
* Forge NGO alliances
to promote children’s
rights
* Work with other
international
organisations
* Membership of
wider NGO pltaforms
* Raise awareness on
children’s rights in
Europe
* Spread information
through publications,
online channels & social
media
Wider public &
the media
Other
partners
EU FRAMEWORK
Early years under the competence of member states but
important role of the European Commission in driving change
by:
Open Method of Coordination exchange of practices
Research
Integration into other policy areas: reconciliation; Europe
2020; fight against poverty; structural funds
Eurochild view:
• broad policy framework linking labour market policies,
family-related leaves, family support services & formal
education systems as the basis to develop policies on
ECEC services.
• Children’s development as the primary concern
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
Parental leave (2010); Maternity leave; Paternity leave (2011 consultation)
Review of Barcelona targets for child care placement (2008)
Strategic framework for European cooperation in education and training
(‘ET 2020’) benchmark: share of early leavers from education and training
should be less than 10 %.
Early years education & care – Council Conclusions (2011): providing all
our children with the best start for the world of tomorrow
Developing a European Quality Framework for ECEC:
• Accessibilty
• Workforce
• Curriculum
• Governance
• Monitoring & evaluation indicators/ benchmarking
CHALLENGES
Cuts in expenditure and staff in statutory social
services.
Demonstrating the potential return for investment.
Make happen an holistic approach and integrated
services.
Ensure respect for diversity and tailored apporaches.
SCHOOL READINESS IS MORE THAN KNOWING
THE ABCS AND
123S
health and physical development;
social and emotional development;
language and communication;
approaches to learning
cognitive development and general knowledge
Thank you for your attention!
Website: www.eurochild.org
E-mail: [email protected]