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International Students – Everything you need to know
Key Requirements for International Students International students play an increasingly important role in Early Years and School Age Care settings. Ensuring that robust Garda Vetting processes are followed is essential to safeguarding children, supporting services, and protecting students themselves. Â Why Garda Vetting Matters Garda Vetting is a key safeguarding measure and a legal requirement
Early Years provision based on children’s needs in England
A new report in England has been released in relation to the impact of expanding Early Years provision based on need rather than parental employment status. Currently, there is an entitlement of 30 hours of free Early Years provision per week, however this is available to eligible working parents only. The BRIDGE Project was a
Early Years and School Age Care Staffing Issues Need Urgent Action
Every child deserves the best start in life, yet staff turnover and retention in Early Years and School Age settings across Ireland result in children missing out on consistent relationships, stable routines and high-quality experiences. Unless urgent action is taken by the government in Budget 2027, children’s outcomes will ultimately be affected. Laying the foundation
Making the News: Time for Nurturing Connections
In April, Early Childhood Ireland engaged with local media to promote the Time for Nurturing Connections programme, highlighting its role in leadership and the ongoing professionalisation of the workforce. The programme is funded by the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal, in partnership with Community Foundation Ireland. There was also continued coverage for the Early Childhood Ireland
Key statistics in relation to the goals of First 5
A Statistical Spotlight that illustrates key trends in relation to the goals and objectives of First 5: A Whole of-Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their Families 2019-2028 was recently published. This follows on from the 2022 edition and is based on available data. The Spotlight is structured into three sections corresponding to Goals
Early Years and School Age Care in Ireland: Progress and Priorities
Early Years and School Age Care policy in Ireland has entered 2026 with significant ambition but uneven delivery. While there have been some renewed policy activity and action plans, progress has been slower and more fragmented than required to address long‑standing structural problems. Many of the challenges identified under First 5—including unequal access, workforce sustainability,
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Early Childhood Ireland is the leading organisation in the sector, working to ensure quality experiences for children in Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare settings.
If you wish to become a member of Early Childhood Ireland please click below.
Get your Membership today
Join Now
Early Childhood Ireland is the leading organisation in the sector, working to ensure quality experiences for children in Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare settings.
If you wish to become a member of Early Childhood Ireland please click below.
