How to Register your ECD centre for the DBE’s Bronze Certificate (Stage 1) through the eCares Online Registration System
Last updated: 03 September 2024 (This page will be updated as DBE shares new information)
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has launched the eCares online registration system to help all ECD centres across South Africa get certified. This system is currently only available in Gauteng and will soon be available nationwide. The registration process is divided into three stages, and Stage 1 will get you the Bronze Certificate.
Every ECD Centre in the country must register.
Getting Ready to Register
Here’s a straightforward guide to prepare for Stage 1:
- Check Your Device: You can use a computer, laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone to register. Make sure your device is ready and has a good internet connection.
- Read the MRD Information: Go through the MRD information documents thoroughly (all provided under the “Useful Links” heading at the bottom). These documents will give you all the details you need and include the link to the DBE online registration system.
- Save the eCares Registration Chatbot’s Number: Add the eCares Registration Chatbot’s number (087 725 2059) to your phone contacts. This is the number you’ll use during registration, and it’s listed in the MRD Information Sheet. You’ll need to interact with this chatbot during the process.
- Contact the Chatbot Open WhatsApp and send a “Hi” or “Hello” message to the chatbot’s number. Follow the instructions the chatbot gives you to proceed with registration.
- Gather Your Documents Before you start, make sure you have the following documents saved on your device:
- Collect certified copies of ID or passport for yourself and your staff. If your ECD centre is an NPO you must also have certified copies of ID or passport for your board members.
- Complete the Form 30 for all the individuals mentioned (Form 29 is not needed).
- Save each of these documents as separate files with clear names (e.g., “ID Jane Doe,” “Form30 Jane Doe”).
- Prepare a photo of your facility. If you upload a photo with children present, make sure the children’s faces are not visible in the photo.
Prepare Your Information: See the information needed for Stage 1 below
Review the Health and Safety questions: See information below.
- Proceed with online registration: Use the links below. Create a unique profile and keep your password safe. Complete all the steps and submit your application.
Information Needed for Stage 1
Prepare the following information before you get started:
- Staff Details: Highest ECD qualification for each staff member, their email addresses, and mobile numbers.
- Children’s Details: Organise information into these age groups:
- Birth to 18 months
- 18 months to 3 years
- 3 to 4 years
- 4 to 5 years
- 5 to 6 years
For each age group, gather:
- Number of boys and girls
- Boys and girls receiving the Child Support Grant
- Boys and girls with special needs
- Number of staff members
- Total number of children
Need help? Use the Excel tables linked at the bottom of this page to help collect and organise this information.
Health and Safety
Review the MRD Health Norms and Standards. You can apply for the Bronze Certificate (stage 1) without having these fully in place, but you’ll need to commit to implementing them before your site inspection in Stage 2 for the Silver Certificate.
Familiarise yourself with the Health and Safety questionnaire, which you’ll fill out online during registration – there’s no need to complete it on paper.
Starting the Registration
Once you have everything ready, go to the DBE’s registration portal.
Follow the instructions to create a profile, upload your documents, complete the questions and submit your registration and get your Bronze Certificate.
The MRD Contact Centre Number: 010 476 1004
- The contact centre is strictly ourbound, this means you cannot call the number to make enquiries but this number may call you with regards to your application.
- We recommend you save this number on your phone so that you know to answer this important call.
What if I’m not based in Gauteng?
- The Mass Registration Drive is being rolled out in a phased approach.
- It is only live in Gauteng for now.
- All other regions will be notified when applications open in other regions.
- Stay tuned for updates, we will update this article when new information becomes available.
Click to download:
- Form 30
- MRD Information Sheet
- MRD Health Norms and Standards
- Health and Safety Questionnaire
- Excel Tables for Collecting Information
The DBE aims to make the registration process as smooth as possible. Gather your documents and information, and proceed confidently. You’re on your way to achieving your Bronze Certificate!
Grow ECD is an early learning social enterprise. We equip ECD businesses and organisations with the skills, support and resources they need to provide 5-star early learning for every child.