13th Group of Prospective Childminders Receives Certificate
Last week, the Institute of Early Childhood Development (IECD) / UNESCO Category 2 Institute, celebrated the completion of its Pre-Registration and Sensitisation Training Programme (PRESET) with a certificate ceremony for 43 participants. Marking its 13th edition, the programme, which concluded in July 2024, focused on the National Standards for Childminding Services as outlined in the IECD Regulation 2016. The newly certified participants are now eligible to commence the registration process to officially offer their child care services through the IECD.
The ceremony took place on Friday 2nd August, 2024, at the Savoy Resort and Spa. During her keynote address, IECD Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Shirley Choppy expressed her pride in the Institute’s achievements in enhancing the quality of services and activities in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE).
“The key to the success of the Childminding Programme lies in the steadfast support and strong collaboration of key sectors in ECCE, including various ministries,” stated Mrs. Choppy.
She urged the new cohort of prospective childminders to embrace their pivotal role: “As early childhood educators, you have an important responsibility to protect the rights of, nurture, and educate our young children. This training reinforces the benchmark of quality and excellence necessary to ensure a positive early childhood experience, promote school readiness, and provide a strong foundation for all children in your care.”
Since its inception in 2015, the PRESET programme has trained over 400 childminders and assistant childminders. Participants learn how to nurture, care for, and stimulate young children in a supportive and standardized environment, preparing them for formal early childhood education.
The recent PRESET programme spanned over nine consecutive Saturdays, during which facilitators covered the National Standards for Childminding Services under the IECD Regulation 2016. Mrs. Choppy noted that these regulations are currently under review to align with the Early Childhood Development Act of 2022.
“All childminders are expected to comply with ten standards designed to enhance quality management and promote the adoption of best practices in childminding,” she added.
In addition to the new participants, six registered childminders were recognized for their exceptional commitment to achieving 100% compliance with national standards for childminding services. Mrs. Choppy highlighted that one-third of registered childminders have attained this level of compliance over the past three years, stating, “This demonstrates that the national standards are indeed attainable. Although we occasionally receive complaints, dedication and commitment can yield the best possible results.”
The PRESET programme was conducted in collaboration with various ECCE sectors and external partners, including:
- Public Health Authority
- Health Care Agency
- Department of Employment & Social Affairs
- Ministry of Education and SITE
- National Sports Council
- Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Education Dr. Justin Valentin, Special Advocate and Chevalier Mr. Joseph Samy, and Mrs. Oliaji, among other guests, partners and sponsors.
In addition to the ceremony, the IECD launched two new initiatives: a Directory for Home-Based Child Care Services in Seychelles and its online newsletter – IECD e-newsletter.
