ECRA™ Self-Assessment (Mandatory Entry to Accreditation)
Internationally recognized pathway for early childhood centers (0–8 years) to benchmark quality, build an action plan, and advance to full ECRA™ Accreditation.
Why it matters
- Credible readiness check against ECRA™ Domains & Quality Indicators.
 - Actionable improvement plan (effort, cost, timeline, ownership).
 - Evidence map to streamline your path to accreditation.
 - 100% fee credited when upgrading to full ECRA™ program (USD 10–16k).
 
What you get
- Self-Assessment Toolkit aligned to 6 Domains & 24+ key areas.
 - Scoring sheets (Always / Sometimes / Never) with auto totals & priorities.
 - Action-Plan templates (RACI, timeline, cost lines).
 - 1× Coaching Session (2 hours) with an Arabian Child advisor.
 - Follow-up pack: evidence examples, narrative guidance, next-step checklist.
 
Scope of Review (Domains & Key Areas)
| Domain | Key Areas (examples) | 
|---|---|
| 1. Child Learning & Development | Educational Program, Curriculum, Relationships & Interactions, Inclusive Education | 
| 2. Health, Safety & Child Protection | Child Protection, Safety, Health & Well-Being, Mental Health | 
| 3. Quality Workforce | Qualifications, CPD, Staffing, Staff Well-Being | 
| 4. Community Partnership & Citizenship | Parents, Community, Citizenship, Environmental Stewardship, Digital Citizenship | 
| 5. Enabling Environments | Indoor/Outdoor, Resources, SEND, Sustainability, Sensory Integration | 
| 6. Leadership & Management | Leadership, Operations, HR, Continuous Improvement, Data, Technology | 
Delivery Process
- Kickoff & appoint Quality Lead; distribute toolkit.
 - Rooms complete SA (Always / Sometimes / Never) and submit scores.
 - Coaching session (2h): consolidate scores; build action plan; map evidence.
 - Issue readiness summary + upgrade offer to full ECRA™.
 
Roles & Responsibilities
| Role | Scope | 
|---|---|
| Center Manager | Sponsorship, resourcing, approvals | 
| Quality Lead | Coordinates SA, collects evidence, owns action plan | 
| Arabian Child Advisor | Coaching, localization, evidence guidance, upgrade handoff | 
Optional Add-Ons
- Additional coaching blocks (2h each).
 - Evidence pre-review & mock assessment.
 - On-site walkthrough (travel billed at cost).
 - Evidence portal setup (e.g., Monday.com) & staff induction.
 
Sample Staff–Child Ratios (for discussion & planning)
| Age Group | Indicative Ratio | Notes | 
|---|---|---|
| Infants (0–12m) | 1:3 | Adjust per local guidance & activity risk. | 
| Toddlers (1–2y) | 1:4 | Increase during trips or SEND support. | 
| Toddlers (2–3y) | 1:5 | Ensure continuous supervision. | 
| Preschool (3–4y) | 1:8 | Qualified lead + assistants. | 
| Preschool (5–6y) | 1:10 | Document rationale & safety measures. | 
Final ratios must follow local regulations; justify adjustments by activity, environment, and children’s needs.
FAQs
Is Self-Assessment required before accreditation?
Yes. It is the mandatory first step and the fee is fully credited when you proceed to ECRA™ Accreditation.
What’s included in the coaching session?
A 2-hour session to appoint your Quality Lead, align teams, consolidate scores, and convert findings into a costed, time-bound action plan.
How soon can we start?
Kickoff typically occurs within 10 business days of payment.
Do Community Partners get a discount?
Yes. 20% discount on the Self-Assessment and on the full ECRA™ Accreditation.
© 2025 ACC. All rights reserved. ECRA™ toolkit and materials are licensed for internal use by the purchasing center only.
								

