#Japan #Hino #Hino City #Empower Support #Nursery Teachers

Hino City’s Revolutionary Initiative to Address Childcare Workforce Shortage

On May 29, 2023, Hino City took a significant step towards alleviating the shortage of nursery educators by forming a partnership with Empower Support Co., Ltd., based in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. This collaboration aims to support the re-employment of former nursery teachers, ensuring a steady supply of qualified professionals in childcare services.

Starting from August 2023, as part of this initiative, the city will conduct an online survey targeting current nursery teachers and those who are qualified but not presently employed in the field. The results, as of September 8, revealed that out of 745 valid responses, 268 were potential nursery teachers. Notably, 148 respondents expressed a willingness to return to the profession if offered short-term, day-by-day contracts.

Recognizing the barriers former nursery teachers may face, including gaps in experience and certain hesitations, Hino City is committed to creating a supportive environment for their reintegration into the workforce. To aid this process, Professor Mami Iguchi from Jissen Women's University will lead a specialized training session aimed at empowering potential returning nursery teachers.

Training Details

• - Name: Chokotto Training
• - Instructor: Professor Mami Iguchi, Department of Life Sciences, Jissen Women's University
• - Date: September 20, 2023, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
• - Location: Hino City Children’s Comprehensive Support Center Mirai-ku
• - Target Audience: Qualified individuals considering a return to the nursery sector

This training will cover essential topics such as:

• - The ethics of nursery education
• - Effective communication strategies when working with children
• - Utilizing the “Chokotto Hoiku” platform, which was developed by Empower Support Co., Ltd.

In summary, Hino City’s initiative marks a crucial step in addressing the ongoing childcare workforce crisis, and the collaboration with Empower Support represents a promising model for engaging former nursery teachers. By providing necessary training and support, Hino City aims not only to fill the current gap in the nursery workforce but also to create a sustainable environment that fosters the growth and development of both educators and the children they care for. This pioneering program serves as an inspiration for other regions facing similar challenges, illustrating the positive outcomes of collaboration between government, academia, and private industry. Through such efforts, Hino City is paving the way for a resilient and robust childcare system.