The Learner Fund was introduced in 2013, and since then has provided financial assistance to thousands of Early Years practitioners in upskilling to a Level 5/6 in Early Childhood Care and Education. This has assisted in further professionalising the sector. The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth recognises that there are a number of practitioners who have upskilled to a Level 7/8/9 in Early Childhood Care and Education during the same period and have not received any financial support.
Therefore, in recognition of this commitment to further professionalisation, DCYA plan to pay a Bursary (of approx. €750) to practitioners who have completed a major award in Early Childhood Care and Education at Level 7, Level 8, or Level 9 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications since the inception of the Learner Fund. This qualification must be on the DCEDIY Early Years Recognised Qualifications list. The Learner Fund Bursary is expected again in 2021 and details should be available once this is confirmed.
The distribution of capital funding is determined on an annual basis by DCEDIY, having regard to the needs of children, families and service providers, and Departmental priorities.
The priority for the 2021 Capital Programme will be on fire safety grants. If any of the €8.3million available for capital grants for early learning and care and school age services is not drawn down for fire safety works, the Department will distribute the balance by way of a second round of grants, which will focus on outdoor play.
Please see link below on how to apply for these grants. If you require any support in completing your application please contact us at WCCC.
Old Mullingar Area Office (inside gates at right of Arts Centre),
Mount Street, Mullingar,Co Westmeath
Tel: 044 9335454
info@westmeathchildcare.ie
CHY NO: 14993
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