ECCE CALCULATOR​

​What is the ECCE Scheme? 

The ECCE is a government funded scheme which gives children access to free Pre-school where they are immersed in appropriate programme-based activities from the age of three years until they start primary school. 

Participation in the ECCE scheme provides children with their first experience of formal learning and supports and enhances their early years development. 


When will my child be eligible for the scheme? 

The ECCE scheme is open to children from the age of three years until they attend primary school (Provided that they are not older than 5 ½ years at the end of the preschool year).
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Parents can enrol their children at three entry points during the year: September 2016, January 2017 and April 2017. The number of weeks a child is entitled to is determined by the child's date of birth. Click here for the eligibility poster for the ECCE Programme or alternatively input your child's date of birth into the ECCE Calculator below. This ECCE Calculator determines eligibility entry points for the ECCE programme. 

How is the ECCE scheme provided? 

The scheme is provided over 38 weeks (September to June) and offers 3 hours free preschool per day for 5 days per week. 
In certain cases, a service may offer 3 hours 45 mins free preschool over 4 days per week and run for 41 weeks
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How do I apply for a place?

• Choose the childcare facility that you wish your child to attend. For information on choosing suitable childcare click here
• Check that the service offers the ECCE scheme and that they have places available for the entry point you wish to start your child on (September, January or April). 
• Enrol your child with the service.
• You will be given an ECCE Parent Declaration Form which you will complete, sign and return to the childcare service. 
• You will also be given a copy of the services Fees List to sign and a copy of the Preschool calendar for your information.
• The service provider will submit your child's details to the Dept of Children & Youth Affairs and officially enrol him/her on the ECCE scheme.