Open consultation Consultation on the draft Executive ELC Strategy

Summary

The Department is seeking views on the draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy.

Documents

• Draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy - December 2025 Adobe PDF (10 MB)
• Draft EQIA Consultation document Adobe PDF (4 MB)
• Rural Needs Impact Assessment Draft ELC Strategy Adobe PDF (360 KB)
• CRIA draft ELC strategy Adobe PDF (307 KB)

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Consultation description

The Department is seeking views on the draft Executive ELC Strategy.

The draft ELC Strategy is the Executive’s draft plan for more affordable, accessible, high-quality early learning and childcare.

The strategy is a comprehensive and ambitious framework designed to transform early years provision across the region.  It reflects a joined-up approach across departments and communities, recognising the critical role of early years in shaping lifelong outcomes.

The draft strategy builds on work already undertaken to enhance early learning and childcare provision in Northern Ireland and seeks to consolidate and expand on these achievements. The strategy is structured around three core themes which together seek to provide a holistic approach to improving early learning and childcare provision across Northern Ireland:

Supporting Children in Their Early Years

This theme focuses on what the strategy will deliver for children.  It concentrates on improving ELC experiences through expansion and enhancement of provision, the promotion of high-quality ELC environments and targeted support for those facing disadvantage and those with additional needs.

Supporting Families with their Children’s ELC Costs

This theme focuses on what the strategy will do for families and carers.  It seeks to make childcare more affordable and ensure better availability and accessibility of support and information, empowering parents to make the best choices for themselves and their family.

Supporting the Early Years Sector and Workforce

This theme sets out the vital role of the ELC sector and workforce in delivering change.  It focuses on improving sustainability and building capacity, while promoting fair pay and professional recognition.

The department welcomes your response to the consultation, which will shape the final strategy. The consultation will run until 24 March 2026.

Alternative Formats

Documents can be requested in alternative formats. For more information on the alternative formats available and the timescales involved, email elc@education-ni.gov.uk