A Vision for Quality in Early Childhood Education

This article discusses the different perceptions of quality in early childhood education. It argues that quality should be perceived as a process which is specific to the context of each service, and is, therefore, best defined by the values and beliefs of the stakeholders. This article suggests that forming a vision by the participants involved in early childhood centres can be the starting point of a quality process, and can forge a commitment to working towards excellence, as well as be a tool for evaluation. Methods for developing a vision are outlined, and the benefits to management, staff, and families in supporting this process are discussed.