In July 2009 Cairdeas was awarded the NCNA/All Ireland Centre of Excellence. The award is given jointly by the NCNA in the Republic of Ireland and Early Years in Northern Ireland.
The award recognises that quality covers many criteria, both static and dynamic. Static refers to easy to assess factors such as record keeping, adherence to statutory space requirements and adult child ratio etc. Dynamic refers to factors such as interactions, relationships and partnerships with parents. The dynamic elements are harder to assess, so a site visit is an essential part of the validation process. The ten criteria the centre is evaluated on are:
1.Programmes and Curriculum for Children
2.Relationships in the Nursery
3.Partnership with Families
4.Health, Safety & Hygiene
5.Staff Conditions & Professional Development
6.Physical Environment
7.Diet & nutrition
8.Management & Administration
9.Implementation of Policies & Procedures
10.Evaluation & Review of Centre
Each heading above has numerous questions for the centre to examine and evaluate their service. Most sections are scored on a yes/no basis. The centre must score full marks on each question to qualify for the award.
We are sure that the process of achieving the All Ireland Centre of Excellence has enhanced the standard of care we provide to all the children in our care. As part of the award we are continually assessing and improving our practises to give your child/children the most rewarding experience during their time with us.
Dermot Leavy (Chairman) and Liz O' Rourke (Manager) receiving the award from the Minister for Children, Barry Andrews.
Staff of Cairdeas with Minister Barry Andrews at the gala dinner celebrating their Centre of Excellence Award.