Early Childhood Development (ECD) is central to a child’s development: it lays the groundwork for successful learning, which in turn helps children progress confidently into formal schooling. In this way it serves as a foundation for the development of an active and educated citizenry which can contribute to social and economic advancement. ECD is prioritised in education policy in South Africa, yet the actual provision is fragmentary and functions to some extent in competitive silos.

BRIDGE has very active ECD Communities of Practice in Gauteng and the Western Cape, and is working with members to understand provision and increase quality in this vital sector.