Early Childhood Care and Education programme explained
What is the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme?
The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme is designed to give children access to two free preschool years before they begin primary school. According to the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, children who attend a preschool are more likely to be ready for school and a formal learning environment.
The programme is open to every child in the country, and runs for 38 weeks, five days a week, for three hours each day. Each child is entitled to two years of free education, with exceptions in some cases. Parents can choose from approximately 5,000 participating preschool services around the country. These schools are paid a capitation fee by the government for each child enrolled.
What age must my child be to take part in the ECCE programme
The ECCE programme is open to all children aged between 2 years 8 months, and 5 years 6 months on 1st September of the relevant year.
They can continue until they transfer to primary school as long they won’t turn 5 years and 6 months on or before 30 June of the programme year.
Children hoping to participate in the programme in September 2020 must have been born between 1st January 2017 - 31st December 2018. Those wishing to participate next September 2021 must have been born between 1 January 2018 - 31st December 2018.
What if my child has special needs?
If your child needs additional support, your pre-school provider can apply, in partnership with you, for targeted supports under AIM. Applications are made through the Programmes Implementation Platform (PIP) on the Pobal website. Your pre-school service provider will be familiar with the Pobal website and with PIP.The AIM website provides information for Parents and Frequently Asked Questions on supports available.
Can I move my child to a different preschool during the year?
It is possible to move your child from one preschool to another during the programme. However, you must give the preschool you are moving your child from 4 weeks notice before the move. If you fail to do this, Fees must be paid for 4 weeks in your childs new preschool, while the old one receives four weeks of ECCE payment.
What is the difference between the EECE program and the National Childcare Programme?
The National Childcare Scheme (NCS) is a new scheme that provides financial support to help parents to meet the costs of childcare. The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Scheme provides early childhood care and education for children of pre-school age. Children can start ECCE when they are 2 years and 8 months of age and continue until they transfer to primary school.
How do I apply/sign up for the programme?
For the National Childcare Scheme you will need to apply here: https://ncs.gov.ie/en/how-to-apply/