AQO 2891/22-27

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 05/01/2026
Answered On Date: 13/01/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the publication of the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy.

Answer:

The draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy was published for public consultation on 17 December 2025.

The strategy focuses on three themes: supporting children in their early years, helping families with their child’s learning and childcare costs, and strengthening the early years sector and workforce.

The strategy builds on £80 million already invested by the Executive over the past two years, which is delivering real benefits for thousands of children, families, and providers.

One of the most successful initiatives has been the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme. Since its launch in September 2024, eligible working parents have saved almost £19 million, and combined savings are estimated at £40 million.

We have also begun moving all pre-school provision to full-time to ensure every child can access 22.5 hours of age-appropriate learning before starting school. So far, over 2,500 additional full-time places have been funded, with a further 2,200 places approved to move to full time provision from September 2026. This will mean that approximately 50% of pre-school provision, in every area of Northern Ireland, will be full time.

I have also invested significantly in existing early years programmes, many of which provide targeted support to children facing disadvantage or with additional needs and disabilities.

These early actions lay the foundation for long-term progress. I strongly encourage stakeholders to respond to the consultation available on my Department’s website by the closing date of 24 March 2026. The comments will be used to inform the final version of the strategy and delivery plan.