Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme
The Free Preschool Year in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) is a programme administered by the Childcare Directorate of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) with the support of the local City & County Childcare Committee (CCC).
ECCE is a universal programme, meaning that it is available to all children in the State in the qualifying age range. All children aged between 3 years 2 months and 4 years 7 months on 1st September each year can avail of a free preschool year – to be normally* taken up through daily sessions of 3 hrs, 5 days per week for 38 weeks per year.
The first 3 hours per day, 5 days per week for 38 weeks is free. Additional hours per day can be offered.
ECCE is a universal programme, meaning that it is available to all children in the State in the qualifying age range. All children aged between 3 years 2 months and 4 years 7 months on 1st September each year can avail of a free preschool year – to be normally* taken up through daily sessions of 3 hrs, 5 days per week for 38 weeks per year.
The first 3 hours per day, 5 days per week for 38 weeks is free. Additional hours per day can be offered.
TULSA/HSE Limited funding is available towards children’s places where children have been referred by the Tusla/HSE, ie PHN, Social Worker, Family Support etc. Please note that not all children referred are entitled to payment, payment is only granted in severe hardship cases.
*There are some variations to this attendance pattern. Your local County Childcare Committee (CCC) can provide further information and advice on ECCE, the process for securing a place, and local availability.
Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme Service Fees Information Letter
If you wish to download, the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme Service Fees Information Letter, please click here.
Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme Calendar
If you wish to download, the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme Calendar, please click here.