Visit any nursery and you are likely to find a computer for children to use - but it is rarer to find a nursery where the entire team has access to, and can use, a computer for business purposes. With new developments such as Ofsted's Self-Evaluation Form and a multitude of resources now available electronically, practitioners increasingly need access to technology.
NDNA believes that nurseries should consider thinking about investing more in IT for business purposes. To encourage settings to make a start, the organisation is launching 'go for IT!' - a campaign that will provide nursery members with information and advice about getting to grips with technology.
Computers offer many business benefits to a nursery, including improved efficiency and management, and are a key childcare practice research tool. Regulatory bodies are also increasingly encouraging settings to complete relevant paperwork online. With resources for the Early Years Foundation Stage now available electronically, NDNA believes it is becoming more important for practitioners to have equipment at their fingertips.
Tips on using computers
Recognising that many nurseries would like help, ideas and support about how to do more with technology and build staff confidence, the NDNA will help staff develop skills and provide ideas and tips about how to use computers effectively.
'The cost of technology has come down dramatically over recent years, and with support for IT equipment available in many areas under the early years capital grant, there has never been a better time to get started,' says NDNA chief executive Purnima Tanuku. 'We hope that the campaign will help settings explore the possibilities.'
Supported by Nursery World and Connect Software, the campaign will run throughout October and NDNA members will be able to log in to the new-look NDNA website to download a range of useful factsheets on topics from purchasing equipment to sourcing training and funding.
Most importantly, 'go for IT!' aims to build practitioners' confidence when it comes to using computers and to support nurseries in making technology an everyday part of life.
The campaign also advises on ways in which a computer can be used to support sustainability and create professional marketing, communications and websites. All members who log in to the website and complete the online entry form will be entered into a draw to win a digital camera and printer package. To provide a little fun during the campaign month, NDNA is also offering nurseries the opportunity to download a free branded desktop background.
'It is vital that nursery teams start developing their skills in this area now, so that they are prepared for new developments. As well as helping with simple tasks such as updating policies and procedures, computers can be used to manage finances, plan occupancy and support staff development and childcare practice,' says Ms Tanuku.
'go for IT!' is supported by Ajaz Ahmed, the entrepreneur who founded Freeserve, the UK's largest internet service provider (now known as Wanadoo). Mr Ahmed believes IT 'can transform a business into one that stands out above all the rest'.
Getting started
All NDNA members will be sent an information booklet that provides an introduction to how nurseries can use computers for business use, and reveals how to access the 'go for IT!' resources. While the campaign is aimed primarily at helping build IT skills for business use, NDNA recognises that many would like to increase their confidence when working with children on computers. A briefing paper about age-appropriate ICT will also be available.
'We understand that some nurseries are nervous about using technology to support the running of their business, but it is vital that they overcome this and take advantage of the benefits computers offer,' says Ms Tanuku. 'There is a great deal of funding and support out there, so now is a great time to get started. We hope that members find the resources available under the campaign useful.'
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?
GO FOR IT! Offers a range of advice factsheets on topics including:
- Using IT in your marketing and communications
- Looking for sources of funding and training
- Business benefits of IT, including using technology to manage your finances
- Choosing nursery management software
- Computer safety and protecting sensitive information
- Using digital photography to create professional materials
- The internet - how it can inform childcare practice and keep you up to date
Members should visit www.ndna.org.uk and log in throughout October to access these resources.
