Care and support

Hertfordshire Quality Standards

The new revised scheme is being launched at a series of roadshows throughout May. Please visit the front page of this website for full details.

• Hertfordshire Quality Standards (HQS) is a quality assurance scheme for providers of early education and childcare in Hertfordshire.
• These providers include after school clubs, childminders, day nurseries, pre-schools, nursery and reception classes
• The award reflects that the setting or childminder meets the HQS criteria and provides a high quality service and environment that exceeds the requirements of the Ofsted standards.

How does it work?

• HQS is a self-assessed process developed by Young in Herts, Hertfordshire’s Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership.
• It encourages reflective development and actions, supported through each level by a mentor and project team
• An HQS manual and materials help steer everyone forward towards successful completion of the award

How long does it take?

• The training, support and mentoring process takes from 3-6 months
• Assistance and advice is available at any time from the project team and from other colleagues
• The reflective process may result in a verification visit where the award of the blue balloon kitemark is recommended.

Is there a cost?

• The programme is centrally funded and there is no cost for Hertfordshire childcare and early education providers
• There is a time commitment - making time to talk to colleagues, making time to reflect on what is already happening, making time to plan for future development.

Who do I contact?

The scheme is currently being revised. If you wish to take part when it's relaunched, please contact the co-ordinator for Hertfordshire Quality Standards on 01582 830281.