PF201 Design, layout and supervision of premises

Licensing criterion and guidance for PF201 Design, layout and supervision of premises.

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Criterion PF201

The design and layout of the premises:

  • support varied indoor and outdoor experiences

  • support effective adult supervision without unduly limiting children’s access and

  • include quiet spaces, areas for active play, and space for varied individual and group learning experiences appropriate to the number, ages and abilities of children.

Guidance

How to show you are complying

The way a home is set up can have a big impact on the learning experiences children have. It’s important that homes used for education have enough indoor space for group activities, as well as some outdoor space where children can be active and play.

Every home is different, but most will have a lounge or living area that can be used for a range of activities and can provide a quiet area for children when they need it.

If there’s an area without carpet, it can be great for messy play like painting or clay work. If that’s not available, a protective sheet can be used to keep the floor safe while still allowing children to explore creative activities.

Homes aren’t always set up with small groups of children in mind. Because the educator is usually the only adult present, it’s important to see and supervise all the children at all times.

Any areas of the premises that limit supervision should be included on both the hazard register (HS207) and supervision plan (HS228).

When assessing whether you comply with PF201

Questions we are likely to ask

How is supervision managed in relation to a specific area?

We are likely to look at, measure or count

  • The design and layout of inside and outside spaces, to check the spaces are suitable for a range of experiences and activities.

  • The design and layout of inside and outside spaces, to check that they can be effectively supervised so that children’s access is not unnecessarily limited.

The tools below are here to support you, but you do not have to use them. You can use other tools or methods that work better for your service.

For information on minimum sq m per child requirements refer to schedule 4 of the Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008.

Education (Early Childhood Services) Regulations 2008, Schedule 4 – New Zealand Legislation

A well-designed layout helps provide children the space they need to learn, play, and grow while supporting supervision and delivery of curriculum experiences.