Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme (ECCE)

The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Scheme provides early childhood care and education for children of pre-school age. The scheme is offered in early years settings (pre-schools, Montessori’s, creches, playgroups) for 3 hours a day, 5 days a week, 38 weeks of the year. All children are entitled to 2 full academic years on the ECCE scheme. Children are eligible to start the ECCE scheme in the September of the year that they turn 3 years old. The Department of Children and Youth Affairs sets the age eligibility and funds the scheme. The funding is provided directly to early years settings for children that they have registered on the ECCE scheme. Parents can contact their local County Childcare Committee with any questions they have about the ECCE scheme or find out more information on www.citizensinformation.ie. In delivering the ECCE scheme to our little bees, we adhere to the principles of Maria Montessori Education, Síolta and Aistear (the national framework for early years care and education). Please click here for the Busy Bees Childcare Calendar 2025-2026. You can also click here to view our PSPS and click here to view our QIPP.