Early childhood professionalism in Serbia: current issues and developments.

This article explores early childhood professionalism in the Republic of Serbia. The concept of professionalism in this context is examined in light of current international debates about professionalism. More specifically, how the use of specific nomenclature, the existence of multi-professional teams of practitioners and state-regulated but locally governed Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) services, contribute to the concept of professionalism in Serbia. It is argued that there is a clear sense of a distinct profession embedded in the professional titlevaspitač. However, this title also reveals the societal view of the aims as well as the status of the profession as focused on children's ‘upbringing’ rather than their education. The educational requirements, which parallel those of teachers in other parts of the education sector, demonstrate a protected or distinctive occupational identity for preschool teachers. Several factors important for professionalism are discussed, including the need for improvements in working conditions and salaries, more favourable employment prospects, union organisation and a more supportive infrastructure for a quality early childhood sector. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]