Launch of centre for quality assurance for Zurich’s daycare centres
In 2023, the ZHAW launched a centre for quality assurance for Zurich daycare centres. The centre offers a modular programme for continuing education and process support.
Daycare centres are essential for our children’s development, which is why their quality is so important. In Zurich, daycare centres are diverse, offering a wide range of services and programs. The ZHAW School of Social Work, on behalf of the city of Zurich’s Department of Social Affairs and in collaboration with the Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences (OST), has initiated a programme aimed at implementing quality management practices and supporting pedagogical quality. Developed by staff members from both universities, the programme was launched at the ZHAW in spring 2023.
Modules tailored to individual needs
The new centre’s services include a self-assessment, which is readily accessible, free of charge and encourages daycare centres to reflect on their work. It also offers a modular continuing education programme and process support service for daycare centres in the city of Zurich. The modules are tailored to the individual needs of daycare centres and promote the introduction to and discussion of quality topics. Participants also receive process- and subject-specific knowledge that help them implement specific measures. Module A is aimed at the daycare centre managers, providing a basis for quality management practices. In Module B, daycare groups register as a team and deal with quality issues along eight different topics such as education, parental collaboration or the use of new media. Finally, module C is aimed at daycare centres that have already introduced a quality management system. Daycare centres can sign up independently for the various courses at the ZHAW.