Main features of the free pre-school year scheme
A number of parents & service providers have contacted Meath East TD Mary Wallace regarding the new free pre-school year starting in January 2010. Deputy Wallace has sought clarification with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs Minister Barry Andrews on a number of queries raised.
The following information may be of interest to parents with children eligible for the free pre-school place. The main features of the new free scheme are:
- The new scheme provides for free quality pre-school education to children for one year prior to entry into primary school.
- The new free scheme will be open to all community and private childcare services which meet the requirements of the scheme regarding staff qualifications and where they implement an appropriate programme of educational activities.
- The new free scheme will begin in January 2010.
- The service will amount to: 3 hours each day, 5 days a week over 38 weeks or 2 hours 15 minutes a day, 5 days per week over 50 weeks.
- It is open to all children aged between 3 years 3 months and 4 years 6 months on 1st September each year.
- Pre-schools who meet the requirement of the scheme will receive a capitation fee of €64.50 per child per week to provide a place for 3 hours a day, 5 days a week for 38 weeks.
- In addition €48.50 per child per week to provide a place for 2 hours 15 minutes per day, 5 days a week for 50 weeks with parents paying the balance for the full/part time cost.
- A higher rate of €75 per week per child will be paid to childcare services with highly qualified staff.
