About AQNS

ASSOCIATION OF QUALITY NURSERIES IN SCOTLAND

Background of the Association of Quality Nurseries in Scotland (AQNS)

The Association of Quality Nurseries in Scotland remains the only organisation, wholly based in Scotland, which represents the interests of the non-public Early Years and Childcare Sector.

AQNS was formed in 2000 by a group of independent sector nursery owners and managers who shared a commitment to providing quality early years care and education. In light of the development of national initiatives and good local support mechanisms through the Childcare Partnerships, it was felt to be an opportune time to develop such an organisation. AQNS aims to provide support for all members, to share information and to provide representation at both local and national levels.

AQNS was registered at Companies House in August 2001 and is a non-profit making company, limited by guarantee and is a charity registered in Scotland (Charity Number SC038266). Members elect the Executive Board annually.

Membership numbers continue to steadily increase throughout the country and the association is recognised as a credible and hard working organisation specifically representing, supporting and advising the non-public early years and childcare sector.

The current membership represents a wide variety of early years and childcare settings. Membership is broad and includes private, independent, charitable and workplace nurseries, early years training organisations and some associate members. In addition to provision for 0-5 year olds, many of our members also provide out of school care services for children of primary school age. Membership is open to all who have an interest in, or who are involved in the delivery of early years care and education.

Main aims of the organisation

• To support and improve the provision, standard and availability of Early Years Care and Education
• To be actively involved in and influence planning and decision making at local and national levels
• To heighten public awareness of quality childcare provision
• To be active members of Local Authority Childcare Partnerships
• To develop and strengthen partnerships within Private, Public and Voluntary Sectors

Members views are clearly represented and heard at both local and national levels. At a national level AQNS has been consulted and the Development Director and Chairperson sit on a number of high level committees and forums including:

• SCSWIS National Quality and Consistency Forum
• Scottish Government “Investing in Children’s Futures” Steering Group & Technical Expert Group, tasked with developing the new SCQF Level 9 qualification for managers and lead practitioners
• Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) Early Years Workforce Forum

We are in regular contact with a number of MSP’s and MP’s each of whom is happy to support our thinking. Scottish Government consult and discuss matters with us as policy papers come under review. Members views and opinions across the country have been regularly sought in response to such papers.