The Standard for Childhood Practice will combine a new qualification, to be rolled out next year, with a professional development framework. It has been developed by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) in response to a national review of the early years and childcare workforce.
Minister for children and early years, Adam Ingram, said: "We will not be able to deliver the types of services we want for our youngest children if we do not invest in the skills and career opportunities of the people delivering those services."
The new standard will qualify managers up to Scottish level 9 - the equivalent of an ordinary degree in the English education system. A consultation run by the Scottish Government showed workers felt level 9 was the right minimum level of qualification for managers in daycare.
Carole Wilkinson, chief executive of the SSSC, said: "This standard aims to help strengthen leadership and improve career opportunities for early years and childcare professionals."
