Accessing resources that promote quality education for young children : experience of early childhood development centres’ principals

Abstract

Research has indicated that educational resources used at early childhood development (ECD) centres advance and enrich the developmental domains, health and wellbeing of young children. However, most ECD centres in South Africa seem to lack many educational resources that enhance quality early childhood care and education (ECCE). This study aimed to explore the experience of the ECD principals in accessing learning resources for their centre. A qualitative research approach that employed a multiple case study research design was utilised. Data were gathered through individual semi-structured interviews with four principals and four practitioners from the four selected ECD centres. The collected data were analysed thematically. This study was guided by Britto, Yoshikawa and Boller’s (2011) framework as a theoretical base. The findings revealed that ECD centres only access resources from the users’ fees charged and a stipend from the government, which seems insufficient to promote quality ECCE. This study recommends that ECD principals become proactive regarding effective management and leadership skills by engaging with internal and external environment opportunities to access learning resources effectively. This study further recommends that ECD principals be exposed to various seminars, workshops, symposiums and training where they can network with influencers and develop their leadership and relational abilities that will assist them in being creative when accessing learning resources.