2,500 Extra Pre-School Places in Northern Ireland This Year by Constituency

Belfast: Northern Ireland is set to add 2,500 full-time pre-school places this year. The Education Minister shared this information in response to a question.

In December 2024, Minister Paul Givan announced that 77 pre-school settings will shift from part-time to full-time hours starting September 2025. This change aims to provide 22.5 hours of pre-school education weekly for children aged 3-4.

Last year, 60% of kids received 12.5 hours weekly, while 40% got 22.5 hours. This standardization is part of a £25 million initiative to support early learning and childcare.

Recently, SDLP MLA Sinéad McLaughlin asked for details on the new pre-school places. The Minister confirmed plans to present a draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy by Autumn 2025.

Ms. McLaughlin emphasized that support for families is urgently needed. The strategy aims to improve affordability, sustainability, and quality in childcare.

She noted that parents and providers have waited too long for a solid plan for affordable early education. Proper funding is crucial to meet the needs of families and providers.

McLaughlin stressed the importance of decisive action from the Executive to ensure the strategy benefits all parents and providers, including registered childminders.

Childcare in Northern Ireland is among the most expensive in Europe. Investing in this sector is vital for children’s futures and the economy.

The number of funded pre-school places is set annually by the Education Authority based on demand. Here’s a breakdown of the new full-time places by constituency:

If the table doesn’t load, click here to view.

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