IDENTIFIERS *New Zealand

This paper outlines a quiet revolution in early childhood care and education in New Zealand. In 1986, child care services were transferred from the Department of Social Welfare to the Department of Education. A working group then reviewed provisions and made recommendations. In January, 1989, an implementation unit was established in the Department of Educaticr to carry out administrative tasks required for the establishment of a new administrative structure and policy base for early childhood education. In the future, a Ministry of Education will be responsible for providing policy advice to the Minister of Education on all aspects of education and for overseeing the implementation of national policies approved by the Minister. The most visible central agency for the support and development of early childhood services will be the Early Childhood Development Unit. For the first 2 years of operation, the Unit will be fully funded by the Ministry, and will thereafter charge a fee for services. Another new agency, the Education Review Office will ensure that all early childhood services are accountable for government funds they spend and for meeting objectives negotiated in their cnarter. A Special Education Advisory Service will provide support services to early childhood. Implications of these developments are discussed. (RH) it*****************RWM*******************A*************************%**** * Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made * st from the original document. **********************u****************************2***************m**