Regulatory Authority - Education and Care Regulatory Unit (ECRU)

Scope

This policy outlines the regulatory framework overseen by the Education and Care Regulatory Unit (ECRU) within the Department of Communities, and its implications for the operations of The Akidamy School of Early Learning. It establishes the protocols for transparency and provides clear pathways for external support and dispute resolution.

Audience

This document is intended for all staff, families, and external contractors involved in the delivery or receipt of education and care services at The Akidamy School of Early Learning.

About the Education and Care Regulatory Unit (ECRU)

The ECRU is the statutory body responsible for regulating and monitoring early childhood education and care services in Western Australia. Their primary role is to ensure compliance with the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations, focusing on children's safety, health, and wellbeing.

Role of the ECRU for Families

The regulatory oversight provided by the ECRU offers families at The Akidamy:

• Quality Assurance: Confidence that the School consistently meets high national standards, verified through rigorous Assessment and Rating.

• Safety and Security: Assurance that strict safety measures, educator-to-child ratios, and operational requirements are monitored and enforced.

• Operational Transparency: A mandate that requires The Akidamy to maintain open communication, clear policies, and accessible information regarding school operations.

• Access to Recourse: A formal, independent mechanism for addressing grievances efficiently if they cannot be resolved internally.

When to Contact the ECRU

While we encourage families and staff to resolve issues directly with the School Director or Nominated Supervisor whenever possible, the ECRU acts as an essential external point of contact for specific circumstances.

• For Families, you should contact ECRU if:

  • You wish to report a serious incident or a concern regarding the health, safety, or wellbeing of a child that you feel has not been adequately addressed by the School.

  • You wish to make a formal complaint about a potential breach of the National Regulations.

  • You need general information about the National Quality Framework (NQF) or wish to verify the School's quality rating.

• For Staff, you should contact ECRU if:

  • You need to report suspected non-compliance with the National Law or Regulations where internal reporting has failed.

  • You require independent advice regarding regulatory requirements or your individual responsibilities as an educator.

Contacting the Regulatory Authority

Parents and staff can reach the ECRU through the following channels:

• Phone: (08) 6277 3889 or 1800 199 383

• Email: ecru@communities.wa.gov.au

• Website: wa.gov.au (Search: Education and Care Regulatory Unit)

• Office Address:

  Boorloo Campus, Level 7

  130 Stirling Street, Perth WA 6000

• Postal Address:

  Locked Bag 5000

  Fremantle, WA 6959

These channels ensure that all stakeholders have access to necessary support and can resolve any significant queries or issues effectively.