THE UNITED KINGDOM NATIONAL COMMITTEE OF THE WORLD ORGANISATION FOR EARLY CHILDREN EDUCATION (OMEP)
The United Kingdom National Committee of the World Organisation for Early Childhood Education (OMEP UK) is a registered charity (No. 288955) dedicated to promoting the well-being and education of children from birth to eight years. Affiliated with the international OMEP network, it operates as a non-governmental, non-profit organisation with consultative status at the United Nations and UNESCO[3][4].

History and Mission

OMEP UK was established to advance the objectives of OMEP, founded in 1948 as a global advocate for early childhood development. The organisation focuses on research, policy advocacy, and practical initiatives to support young children’s rights and education[2][3]. Its activities include fostering partnerships among practitioners, academics, policymakers, and parents to address challenges in early childhood care and education[3].

Activities and Initiatives

OMEP UK directs its efforts through an executive committee, which coordinates national projects and collaborates with international OMEP members[3]. A notable initiative is the Early Childhood Education for Sustainable Citizenship (ESC) Award, developed in partnership with Montessori Europe. This program encourages preschools and childcare providers to integrate sustainability education, children’s rights, and family engagement. Participating settings use tools such as "sustainability passports" to track children’s learning and provide access to educational resources[5].

Membership and Structure

The organisation welcomes members from diverse backgrounds, including educators, researchers, policymakers, and parents, to contribute to its mission[3]. OMEP UK operates under a constitution aligned with international standards and maintains compliance with UK charitable regulations[4]. Training programs for educators, such as accredited courses for the ESC Award, further its goal of embedding sustainable citizenship in early education[5].

Governance

Led by a board of trustees, OMEP UK emphasizes strategic planning and accountability, ensuring alignment with both national priorities and global OMEP objectives[4]. Its activities are designed to be inclusive, supporting small childcare providers and childminders alongside larger institutions[5].

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/288955 [2] https://ngoexplorer.org/charity/288955 [3] https://www.omep.org.uk [4] http://www.omep.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/OMEP-UK-CONSTITUTION-2023.pdf [5] https://www.montessori-europe.net/inspiration/montessori-omep-and-early-childhood-education-for-sustainable-citizenship/