#Japan #Certification #Childcare #Shinjuku #Benesse

Introduction

In a significant move to bolster the expertise of childcare professionals, Benesse Style Care, a subsidiary of the Benesse Group, has announced the launch of a newly established "Professional Certification System". Scheduled to commence operations in 2025, this initiative aims to elevate the quality of childcare by officially recognizing skilled staff within their institutions.

Purpose of the Certification System

The newly introduced certification system is designed to support Benesse's mission of helping children thrive as themselves. This mission is rooted in four critical areas: child support, family and community assistance, dietary education, and health and safety measures. The system identifies specialized subjects within these domains where staff can obtain certification. By making the staff's thoughts and actions visible through this recognition, the initiative encourages more professionals to learn from these exemplars, implement evidence-based care practices, and articulate their methodologies clearly. Ultimately, certified staff members will be rewarded for contributing significantly to enhancing the quality of childcare.

Career Advancement Opportunities

With the implementation of this certification system, Benesse aims to provide its employees with greater career development prospects beyond the existing grading and appointment systems. This innovation marks a pivotal addition to the professional growth opportunities available to staff at Benesse's childcare facilities.

Initial Certification for 2025

For its first year of operation, the certification system will recognize expertise in "Child Support." Notably, five staff members have already achieved certification in the area of inter-age childcare (preschool children), a hallmark of Benesse's nursery. These staff members demonstrated a specialized ability to implement engaging activities that captivate children aged 3 to 5, fulfilling the certification criteria successfully.

Certification Process

Executives at Benesse have carefully crafted the certification process. Staff will undergo a comprehensive three-day training program, which includes lectures, practical demonstrations, and opportunities to articulate their experiences in real educational settings. Following the training, candidates must complete two certification assessments:
1. On-site evaluation: This assessment ensures that candidates’ practical experiences are effectively integrated into their roles.
2. Presentation and report submission: Candidates will discuss their practical cases and assess challenges, conducting a thorough review of their work.
Candidates must meet the criteria for both assessments to receive certification.

Commitment to Quality Care

By leveraging this certification system, Benesse seeks to enhance the professionalism of its staff, thereby improving the quality of care provided to children. The organization is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where staff can continue to evolve as "lifelong learning professionals," enabling them to pursue fulfilling careers. This initiative exemplifies Benesse's commitment to attaining its mission of fostering child development while simultaneously advancing the growth of its personnel.

About Benesse Group

The Benesse Group, founded on the enduring philosophy of "Benesse (meaning to live well)," has over thirty years of experience in elder care, in-home nursing, and childcare services. In the face of the rapidly changing demographics in Japan, including the declining birthrate and shortage of caregiving personnel, Benesse remains committed to tackling social issues related to care and education proactively. The organization aims to ensure that everyone can enjoy important life milestones and live enriched lives. In addition to promoting sustainable caregiving and childcare initiatives, Benesse is increasing its efforts on HR services for caregiving, dietary initiatives, and dual-support services for combining work with parenting, making strides in resolving pressing societal challenges.