More than 700 early learning professionals have kicked off state-subsidised degree-level courses in Early Learning and Care this September under the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund. The scheme, piloted in 2024, covers 90 percent of tuition fees and allows educators to spread their studies over three years while remaining employed in the sector. This month, 365 practitioners are starting new Level 7 or 8 programmes, and 350 second- and third-year students are continuing their qualifications.
Official figures show that the share of early years educators holding a relevant degree has climbed from 12 percent in 2012 to 39 percent in 2024. The Government’s target, set out in Nurturing Skills: The Workforce Plan for Early Learning and Care 2022–2028, is to reach at least 50 percent degree-qualified staff by 2028, ensuring a fully graduate-led workforce in early childhood settings.
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley welcomed the latest enrolments and highlighted the link between educator qualifications and service quality. “These dedicated professionals deserve every opportunity to advance their skills. Higher qualifications will directly benefit children’s learning experiences and strengthen career pathways for educators nationwide,” she said.
First 5, the whole-of-government strategy for babies, young children and their families, identifies workforce qualification as a cornerstone of high-quality care. Beyond enhancing professional development, the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund aims to improve recruitment and retention across early learning and childcare services.
Co-funded by the European Social Fund + and Ireland’s Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training programme 2021–2027, the Fund complements existing supports such as the Free Fees Initiative and SUSI grants. Payments are made directly to approved higher education institutions, minimizing upfront costs for participants.
Further details on eligibility and application processes are available at www.gov.ie/NurturingSkillsLearnerFund.
Norma Foley T.D Picture from @NormaFoleyTD1 X
