How to start a preschool in Turkey

Embarking on the journey to establish a preschool or early-years setting in Turkey presents a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the foundational development of young children. For aspiring proprietors, navigating the regulatory landscape is paramount. The primary authority overseeing both public and private pre-primary institutions is the National Ministry of Education (Milli Eğitim Bakanlığı, or MoNE), though the Ministry of Family and Social Services (MoFSS) also plays a significant role, particularly for children aged 0-36 months and in the oversight of private nurseries and daycare centres. Understanding the distinct roles and requirements of these ministries is crucial for a smooth licensing process. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the steps involved, from initial planning to securing the necessary permits and operationalising your early-years setting in Turkey. By adhering to the guidelines set forth by the MoNE and MoFSS, you can ensure a high-quality educational environment that meets national standards and fosters the holistic development of Turkish children.

Regulations

Health safety: Preschools must have documented policies in place covering safeguarding, medication administration, allergy management, illness exclusion criteria, fire drill procedures, emergency contacts, and incident reporting. It is generally required that child-to-adult emergency contact procedures are established and that a registered first-aider is present on site during all operating hours. These measures ensure a safe and secure environment for children.

Licensing overview: In Turkey, preschools generally operate under an Early Childhood or Childcare Licence. The National Ministry of Education (MoNE) is responsible for the education of children aged 36 months and above, while the Ministry of Family and Social Services (MoFSS) oversees the care and education of children aged 0-36 months, jointly managing education for children aged 36-68 months with MoNE. The application process involves submitting a business registration, premises floor plan, health and safety certificates, fire safety approval, a curriculum overview, staff qualification records, and child protection policies. A pre-licence inspection of the premises is a mandatory step.

Licensing authority: National Ministry of Education or Ministry of Family and Social Services

Staff qualifications: Lead teachers are expected to possess a recognised early childhood qualification, such as a diploma or a degree. Assistant staff typically need a basic childcare certificate, alongside essential first aid and safeguarding training. All prospective staff members are subject to background checks and verification of references. Ongoing professional development is a common annual requirement across the sector. Facilities must also ensure appropriate adult-to-child ratios are met for safe supervision.

Facility requirements: The indoor space requirement for early-years settings in Turkey typically ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 square metres per child. Facilities must include a separate outdoor play area, age-appropriate sanitation facilities, secure entry and exit points, and clearly marked fire exits. All furniture must be suitable for the age group of children attending. Any kitchens that prepare meals on-site must obtain a separate food hygiene certification to ensure compliance with health standards.

Curriculum requirements: Regulators increasingly mandate a written, play-based curriculum that is aligned with national early years standards. The International Preschool Curriculum (IPC) is recognised as satisfying these expectations in many countries, by integrating structured learning outcomes with thematic, child-led activities. This also includes observation-based assessment and detailed parent reporting, making it a suitable framework for early-years settings in Turkey.

Startup costs

Startup costs in Turkey can vary significantly, ranging from approximately TRY 750,000 for a smaller, home-based or rented suite operation to TRY 3,600,000 for a larger, purpose-built facility accommodating 60-100 children. These figures include expenses for securing the premises, initial fit-out, licensing fees, and initial staffing. Monthly operating costs are influenced by factors such as rent, staff wages, utilities, supplies, and food, and can be modelled based on proposed enrolment and tuition fees.

Timeline

1. Validate demand and pick a location (Weeks 1–3): Thoroughly research your target neighbourhood in Turkey to assess the demand for early-years services. Conduct surveys among local families, analyse existing competition, and pinpoint any service gaps. This initial phase helps define your age range focus and pricing strategy to ensure market viability.

2. Register the business (Weeks 2–4): Select an appropriate legal structure for your early-years setting in Turkey, such as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or company. Proceed with registration at the local commercial registry, obtain a tax identification number, and establish a dedicated business bank account. This legal foundation is essential for all subsequent operations.

3. Secure premises and design the space (Weeks 3–10): Secure a suitable property that adheres to all specific early-years requirements in Turkey regarding space, natural light, and outdoor play areas. Commission professional fit-out services to ensure the premises meet all fire and health safety codes, creating a safe and stimulating environment for children.

4. Apply for the childcare / preschool licence (Weeks 6–14): Compile and submit your complete application package to the National Ministry of Education or the Ministry of Family and Social Services. This includes floor plans, detailed policy documents, and staff records. Following submission, schedule the mandatory inspection of your premises and address any conditions raised by the inspectors to secure your licence.

5. Recruit and train your team (Weeks 8–14): Begin the recruitment process for your lead teachers, assistant staff, and a centre director. Ensure all new hires complete essential safeguarding, first aid, and curriculum-specific training (e.g., IPC curriculum) before the official opening day, guaranteeing a competent and well-prepared team.

6. Set up curriculum, assessment, and parent comms (Weeks 10–14): Implement your chosen curriculum, such as the International Preschool Curriculum (IPC), along with lesson planning, observation, and reporting tools. Establishing robust systems for parent communication is vital to ensure a professional start and effective engagement with families from day one.

7. Market and pre-enrol families (Weeks 8–16): Launch your marketing initiatives by creating a professional website, setting up a Google Business profile, and establishing a presence on relevant social media channels. Introduce a referral programme and organise open days to attract prospective families and convert visitors into confirmed enrolments for your new early-years setting.

8. Soft open, then full opening (Weeks 14–18): Initiate a one-week soft launch with a reduced enrolment to rigorously test daily routines and operational procedures. Following this, proceed with a full opening, while continuously engaging in marketing efforts to support ongoing enrolment and growth throughout the first year of operation.

Next steps: explore the IPC curriculum, read about preschool enrollment, or browse all start-a-preschool guides.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a special licence to open a preschool in Turkey?

Yes, opening a preschool in Turkey requires a specific licence. The primary regulatory body is the National Ministry of Education (MoNE) for children aged 36 months and above. For younger children (0-36 months) and private nurseries/daycare centres, the Ministry of Family and Social Services (MoFSS) shares oversight. You will need to comply with their respective regulations, which cover aspects like facility standards, staff qualifications, and curriculum.

How much does it cost to start a preschool in Turkey?

The cost to start a preschool in Turkey can range significantly. For a smaller, home-based or rented facility, startup costs might be around TRY 750,000. However, for a larger, purpose-built centre accommodating 60–100 children, costs could escalate to TRY 3,600,000. These estimates include securing premises, renovations, initial licensing fees, and essential equipment.

What qualifications do teachers need?

Lead teachers in Turkish early-years settings are typically required to hold a recognised early childhood education qualification, such as a diploma or degree. Assistant teachers usually need a basic childcare certificate. All staff must undergo background checks and acquire first aid and safeguarding training. Ongoing professional development is also generally a mandatory annual requirement.

How long does the licensing process take?

The licensing process for an early-years setting in Turkey typically takes between 6 to 14 weeks. This timeframe includes preparing and submitting your application package, which comprises floor plans, policy documents, and staff records, followed by a mandatory inspection of your premises by the relevant authorities, such as the National Ministry of Education or the Ministry of Family and Social Services.

Can I use a recognised curriculum like IPC from day one?

Yes, you can use a recognised curriculum like the International Preschool Curriculum (IPC) from day one in Turkey. Regulatory bodies increasingly require a written, play-based curriculum aligned with national early-years standards. The IPC satisfies these expectations by providing a structured framework with learning outcomes, thematic activities, observation-based assessment, and robust parent reporting mechanisms, facilitating a professional start.

What types of early-years settings are recognised in Turkey?

In Turkey, several types of early-years settings are recognised. These include kindergartens and nursery classes affiliated with the National Ministry of Education (MoNE), which cater to children aged 36-68 months. Additionally, the Ministry of Family and Social Services (MoFSS) oversees private nurseries for children aged 0-24 months and private daycare centres for those 25-66 months, among other institution types.