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Information for Providers

We provide a variety of help resources for childcare providers in Co. Donegal.

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National Childcare Scheme (NCS)

The National Childcare Scheme is a landmark new Scheme for Ireland. It is the first ever statutory entitlement to financial support for childcare.

It establishes an equitable and progressive system of universal and income-related subsidies for children up to the age of 15. It also provides an innovative and user-friendly online application process to access those subsidies.

Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme

A universal two-year pre-school programme available to all children within the eligible age range. It provides children with their first formal experience of early learning prior to commencing primary school. The programme is provided for three hours per day, five days per week over 38 weeks per year. The programme year runs from September to June each year.

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Access & Inclusion Model (AIM)

The Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) is a model of supports designed to ensure that children with disabilities can access the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme. Its goal is to empower service providers to deliver an inclusive pre-school experience, ensuring that every eligible child can fully participate in the ECCE programme.

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Funding & Grants

We work to sustain early childhood care and education services through the local implementation of childcare funding programmes in Co. Donegal, on behalf of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA). Childcare funding initiatives assist parents to access affordable quality early childhood care and education.

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Starting a Business

Whether you are entering into this as a sole trader operating for profit or as part of a larger community group of volunteers as a not for profit venture, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to make a service successful. It is important, therefore that if you decide to take on this venture that you are willing to put everything into it to make it a success.

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Quality

Good quality childcare provides a safe, healthy environment and supports the physical, emotional, social, moral and intellectual development of children. When visiting different facilities, do not be afraid to ask questions. A good facility will be only too happy to share all their information.

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Training & Events

We provide a suite of continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities. Two calendars, which offer a wide range of CPD opportunities, are released in Spring/Summer and Autumn /Winter each year. All CPD training will take place in a venue which is accessible for participants. 

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Inspections

Find out more information on the responsibilities of childcare providers in relation to compliance with various regulations and legislation and adherence to the standards and rules outlined by certain programmes.

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