Towards excellence and standarisation of childcare : The result of the project is a move towards excellence, flexibility and standardisation of childcare throughout Europe. A web-based system has been developed to deliver courseware and reinforce learning through online exams and community functionality. The project's approach is based on a combination of pedagogical theory, academic rigour, nationally recognised training guidelines, lessons from good practice and innovation and continuous evaluation and consideration of the practical aspects of implementation. The main objective of the project is official accreditation of the qualification. This project started in 2002 and lasted 30 months.