This figure isn’t just a regulation – it directly affects how much attention, care and support each child receives.
Research consistently shows that lower educator-to-child ratios improve learning outcomes and wellbeing. This is why the National Quality Framework sets minimum standards across Australia and why services are audited and rated on the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority’s Starting Blocks’ website according to whether they meet or exceed these standards.
The exact ratio that is required depends on the child’s age and the state or territory. In South Australia, for example, the required ratio for children over 36 months is one educator for every 11 children.
Some services, however, choose to go further. By voluntarily improving ratios beyond the minimum, centres can provide children with richer, safer and more personalised learning experiences.
At Little Investigators Early Learning Centre in Victor Harbor, we support ratios that exceed regulatory requirements, to best meet the needs and learning of all children.
The benefits of a lower educator-to-child ratio
A stronger ratio brings clear benefits for children, families and educators:
- More individual attention. With fewer children per educator, each child receives more time and personalised guidance, building trust, security and a stronger sense of belonging.
- Personalised learning support. Educators can tailor learning to each child’s strengths, interests and learning style, while also responding quickly to emotional, physical, and behavioural needs.
- More intentional teaching and meaningful interactions. Educators have greater capacity to engage in conversations, scaffold thinking and extend learning in the moment.
- Stronger relationships. Lower ratios allow children to build closer bonds with their educators, which nurtures confidence, social skills and emotional wellbeing.
- Greater supervision and safety. With more educators in the room, educators are better able to actively monitor play, anticipate risks, and provide timely support.
- Enhanced teaching quality. More educators in the room means greater opportunity for planning, reflection, and professional development — all of which improve the curriculum and learning outcomes.
- Happier educators. Lower ratios reduce stress, improve job satisfaction and help educators feel more connected to the children in their care — supporting long-term staff retention and stronger educator–child bonds.
How to check your Centre’s ratio
If you’re considering an Early Learning Centre, don’t hesitate to ask about their ratios. Centres that prioritise quality will be proud to share this information.
At Little Investigators, we believe that exceeding minimum standards is the best way to give children the strongest possible start. Our learning environments have multiple educators supporting the needs of every child — well beyond what regulations require.
We’d be delighted to discuss this commitment with families and invite you to tour our Centre to see how we are already focusing on quality education and care.
