What is the free Pre-School Year in Early Childhood Care and Education?
The ECCE programme is designed to give children access to a free pre-school year of appropriate programme-based activities in the year before they start primary school. Participation in a pre-school programme provides children with their first formal experience of early learning, the starting-point of their educational and social development outside the home. Children who avail of pre-school are more likely to be ready for school and a formal learning and social environment. In general, each eligible child is entitled to one free pre-school year. Certain children with special needs may avail of a pro-rata provision over two years, provided they fulfil certain conditions
When will my child be eligible to participate in the ECCE programme?
The ECCE programme is open to all children aged between 3 years 3 months and 4 years 6 months on 1st September each year.
Enter your childs date of birth to find out if they are eligible on The Limerick Childcare website.
