ECD registration process to remain unchanged with migration to DBE

The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) invites all Early Childhood Development (ECD) partial care facilities and programmes to register with the Department.

“I wish to alert the ECD sector that the provincial DSD remains responsible for registering all ECD partial care facilities and programmes until 1 April 2022, when the shift of the ECD function from DSD to the Department of Education (DBE) at national and provincial levels will have been completed.

ECD registration is a statutory requirement, with consequences for non-compliance. As such, I urge all parents and guardians to enquire whether or not their children are attending a registered ECD facility,” said Minister Fernandez.

The Department's latest figures indicate that 2017 ECD programmes are registered, out of an estimated total of 5049 ECD facilities across the province.

The registration process ensures that ECD partial care facilities have structured developmental stage-appropriate programmes for different age groups. These must encourage development through self-discovery, communication and sensory skills, and the promotion of self-control and independence.

The provincial DSD registers ECDs - provided they meet the norms and standards as stated in the Children's Act. Some of the norms and standards include: clearance certificates from the municipality (zoning, fire & safety); structured learning programmes for the children; emergency plans for children who may become ill; and nutritious meals.  Registration is only provided for 5 years at a time, after which period the ECD must renew their registration.

The provincial DSD has developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the reporting and management of serious injury, abuse and death of children in registered and unregistered facilities in the Western Cape. This has been distributed to all ECDs, social service organisations and designated child protection organisations. The SOP is aligned to the Uniform Referral Pathway protocol in the Western Cape. The SOP details a referral system for assistance and support.

For information and frequently asked questions about the ECD function shift to the DBE, visit www.westerncape.gov.za/ecd or click here.

For more information contact:

Any persons interested in finding out more information about the services we offer, individuals can make contact with our department by calling, 0800 220 250, to be directed to your nearest local DSD office.

For more information about our other services, please refer to the Western Cape Department’s Website below:

https://www.westerncape.gov.za/dept/social-development.