Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Scheme

The ECCE Scheme was announced by the Government in April 2009 and will be introduced in January 2010. Parents will be able to avail of this ECCE scheme for their children on a 38 week or a 50 week per year basis.

What is the ECCE Scheme?

The ECCE is a new scheme 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.
Naomi’s Creche is offering dedicated Part-Time Montessori in conjunction with the ECCE scheme, in their state-of-the-art childcare center in Knocknacarra. With many years experience running a full-time Montessori, the Part-Time Montessori group will benefit from expert caregivers in a secure, warm and cosy environment. The experience will enhance your child’s natural abilities and develop their physical, emotional, social and cognitive skills. The Montessori method aims to work at the child's own pace.

Is my child eligible?

The ECCE is open to all children aged between 3 years 3 months and 4 years 6 months on 1 September each year. To avail of the free pre-school year in January 2010, children must have been born between 2 February 2005 and 30 June 2006. To avail of the year in September 2010, children must have been born between 2 February 2006 and 30 June 2007.

How much will I have to pay?

Naomi’s Creche will provide the Part-Time Montessori to eligible children of the early childhood care and education (ECCE) scheme free to parents. While the pre-school year will normally commence in September of each year, a shorter period will apply for those attending from January 2010.

What kind of experience will my child have at Part-time Montessori?

The Part-time Montessori will be provided for three hours each day, 9am – 12pm, (Monday-Friday) . It will operate for 38 weeks of the year from September to June, similar to the school term. Children will be asked to bring a packed lunch to school each day.
The programme will be provided with all the benefits of a traditional Montessori, in a dedicated specialist room with age appropriate toys. There will be a focus on the development of a child’s cognitive skills, senses, independence and environment awareness. Other activities will include Drawing, Colouring, Painting, Crafts, Games, Songs, Stories, and Classical Poetry.
At Naomi’s Creche, we believe in learning though play in a comfortable environment, with a focus on mutual respect and diversity.

How can I apply?

For more information, please view our Part-Time Montessori page. For information regarding eligibility and availability, please contact us, or emailECCE at Naomis Creche