INTRODUCTION
A key requirement of the National Early Childhood Education and Care Collection (the Collection) is that data providers are required to supply data to the ABS using a unit record level (URL) data collection methodology. Where this is not possible, data can be supplied by way of an aggregate level collection methodology. All data providers are working towards data improvements applying a URL collection methodology for all Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sectors. Collection of data using a URL methodology for the Collection is required to enable accurate reporting on the number of children who attend preschool. A preschool program, for the purposes of the Collection, is defined as a structured, play-based learning program, delivered by a degree qualified teacher, primarily aimed at children in the year before they commence full-time schooling. Aggregate collection methodologies only enable reporting on episodes of preschool enrolment and attendance. Counts of episodes include multiple child experiences of a preschool program and are not a good proxy for counts of children. These concepts are further outlined in the publication National Early Childhood Education and Care Collection: Concepts, Sources and Methods, 2013 (cat. no. 4240.0.55.001).
The Collection authority comes through the National Information Agreement on Early Childhood Education and Care (NIA ECEC) which was developed in consultation with the Australian Government, state and territory governments and key data agencies including the ABS and Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). The NIA ECEC aims to increase the ability to collect and disseminate quality, comparable and reliable ECEC data. Jurisdictional data providers supply data to the ABS supporting commitments under the NIA ECEC. The ABS supports the NIA ECEC through conducting the Collection under Memorandum of Understanding arrangements with the Australian Government Department of Education (formerly known as the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations). The ABS collects this data under the Census and Statistics Act 1905 (Cwlth).
This chapter provides an overview of assistance the ABS gives to data providers in delivering data submissions for the Collection. An indicative collection timetable is presented to help data providers plan for the 2013 collection cycle. The chapter outlines data request template changes applicable for the 2013 Collection, as well as URL and aggregate instructions for the provision of Child, Service Provider Organisation and Worker data.
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