Component 1

Improving Quality of and Access to Early Childhood Education

The component will aim at introducing system that improves the quality of ECE programs in Georgia. To achieve this, the project will conduct a diagnostic study of ECE sector, including professional development system of  ECE professionals, ECE quality monitoring system, utilization and coordination mechanisms for ECE sector, school-based preschool services and other relevant directions, to generate comprehensive picture on the demand and supply related challenges to design project envisaged quality interventions.

An ECE quality monitoring framework and instruments to support school readiness and smooth transition to school will be developed, tested and introduced.

Additionally, a systematic and robust  preschool data reporting and consolidation mechanism will be established and incorporated with the EMIS systems to strengthen intra- and intersectoral coordination for ECE.

Another important activity of this component will be to strengthen the professional development system for ECE professionals. Namely, this component would aid in the establishment of a certification and licensing system for existing and novice ECE professionals. Development of in-service teacher training modules on modern child-centered pedagogical approaches that consider gender, diversity and inclusive education, ECE subject-matter (content) knowledge and group management utilizing enhanced learning environments will also be created.

A new remuneration policy for ECE teachers will be developed by MES in collaboration with MOF and MRDI as prompted by the new Law of Georgia on Early and Preschool Education.

The project will also work towards improving the access to preschool education for successful transition to school starting with children in the School Readiness Program (SRP), aged 5-6-years-old.

Improving infrastructure to support innovative primary education, including preschool is also planned.