National Quality Framework (NQF)
How the NQF Supports Quality, Safety and Learning at Kids Academy
Choosing the right early learning centre is a big decision, and you want to be confident your child is safe, supported and set up to thrive.
At Kids Academy Early Learning, we follow the National Quality Framework to deliver the highest standard of education and care. This nationwide system ensures that every childcare centre meets consistent, high-quality benchmarks, giving families peace of mind and children the best possible start in life.
What Is the National Quality Framework?
The National Quality Framework is Australia’s system for improving and regulating early childhood education. It applies to all approved early learning services, including long day care, kindergartens, family day care and outside school hours care.
It includes:
- The National Quality Standard - the benchmark for high-quality education and care
- National laws and regulations
- A rating and assessment system to guide families and help centres improve
At Kids Academy, the NQF guides everything from our curriculum to how we ensure safety, communicate with families, and support educator development.
The 7 Quality Areas of the National Quality Standard (NQS)
Programs are designed around each child’s interests and learning needs, using play-based learning.
Centres follow rigorous hygiene, allergy, and emergency preparedness practices.
Safe, stimulating indoor and outdoor spaces encourage exploration and creativity.
Qualified, passionate educators and strong staff-to-child ratios support individual care.
Educators build trusting, respectful relationships that foster confidence and belonging.
Families are involved in their child’s learning journey, and centres build strong local connections.
Centres are managed with clear leadership and a focus on quality improvement.
How Are Early Learning Centres Rated?
Every approved service is assessed by a regulatory authority and given an overall rating based on performance across the 7 quality areas.
NQS Rating Levels:
- Exceeding NQS - Goes beyond requirements in at least 4 of 7 areas
- Meeting NQS - Meets all standards in education, care and safety
- Working Towards NQS - Safe but has areas identified for improvement
- Significant Improvement Required - Urgent action needed for safety or quality
At Kids Academy, we are proud of our ratings, and even prouder of our commitment to continuous improvement.
Our Commitment to Continuous Improvement
The NQF isn’t just about one-off assessments, it’s about continuous growth.
At Kids Academy, we:
- Maintain active Quality Improvement Plans (QIPs)
- Provide ongoing training through the Affinity Learning Academy
- Regularly review our curriculum and learning environments
- Welcome feedback from families to guide meaningful change
We see improvement as part of our everyday work, so your child always benefits from the latest research and best practices in early education.
Why the NQF Matters for Your Child
When you choose a Kids Academy centre that follows the NQF, you’re choosing:
- A team of qualified educators who understand how children learn
- A safe, clean, and nurturing environment
- A play-based curriculum designed for real-world confidence and school readiness
- Strong relationships with families and open communication
The early years shape a lifetime. The NQF helps ensure your child is getting the high-quality care and education they deserve, every single day.
Learn More
👉 Childcare & Early Education Programs
👉 Find your nearest Kids Academy to enquire about their current quality rating