We have six Early Childhood Development Service (ECDS) centres located in Ballyfermot, South West inner City, Inchicore, North Inner City and County Meath.   

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Our dedicated preschools provide early childhood care and education to children between two and six years. Our ECDS also provides support to parents and carers.

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Early education is the first and most important step toward a successful, self-sufficient future for the children in our community. The focus of the work is to promote confident, social and inquisitive children in interacting with and exploring the environment and their world. School readiness is a strong indicator of long term learning success and our aim is to work with children and parents so that the child can begin school happy and confident having experienced a positive preschool environment. Children attending are provided with opportunities to express themselves through of play in a learning atmosphere of tolerance, respect and fun.

Child development is supported in numerous ways. Our Centres follow a  HighScope curriculum within the Aistear framework and are Siolta accredited (the national quality framework for early years services). Our professionally trained staff use Child Observational Records which support the child’s development in confidence, competence and creativity throughout his or her placement. These assessments provide ongoing observation in developmental areas such as movement and music, maths and science, language and communication. Child development assessments lead to early detection of additional needs and appropriate plans for intervention and support for the child are made through onward referrals to appropriate services when required such as Speech and Language, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Assessment of need, etc.  

As a professional organisation we work under best practice guidelines and legislation which strives to protect the rights and welfare of children.  

Parents are supported and included through the provision of parenting programmes, educational talks, Parents Advisory Committees, family fun days, sports days and open days, Parent Toddler and Groups. Children attending our Centres receive a range of nutritionally healthy snacks throughout the day

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See our ECDS leaflet here for more information. Find a Pre- School near you and contact us directly to get information on place allocations for your child.