Community Early Learning Setting

The KCCC was established by the Kinvara Community Council as a whole of community asset. Unlike private early learning settings, not-for-profit settings are managed by a voluntary board that oversees matters such as governance, finance, health and safety, human resources and fundraising activities.

There are two types of childcare services community and private; the community work within the not for profit sector, while private is for profit and are self-employed. The KCCC is a community early learning centre and holds legal status as a not-for-profit organisation.

As a community setting, KCCC is funded by a combination of parental fees, government grants and community donations. As such, KCCC relies on the generous support of the local community for its fundraising endeavours. Monies raised in support of KCCC have helped to fund outdoor play areas, toys, play materials and activities. Read more about our fundraising activities here.

Board of Management

At Kinvara Community Childcare Services CLG we are committed to safeguarding children, staff, parents and all visitors to our service. We have policies, procedures and practices in place to ensure that we are providing a safe place for children, staff, parents and visitors to be. 

Introducing our dedicated and experienced board of directors, who play a crucial role in upholding and advancing the commitment to safeguarding at KCCC.

Executive Board

Chair: Fiona Kenny

Treasurer: Paul O’Sullivan

Secretary: Joni Liddy

Board Members

Ena Brophy, Trisha Brogan, Claire Keane, Kate Corcoran, Lorraine Hackett,

Des O’Reilly, Sorcha Schnittger, Sarah Mahon and Mag Flaherty.

Regulations and Compliance

The KCCC is subject to strict regulations and legislation under a number of county and national agencies:

  • POBAL – the agency responsible for funding not-for-profit early learning centres in Ireland and administers the ECCE (free pre-school) scheme and capital grants. The KCCC is subject to regular inspections from POBAL to ensure that the Centre is compliant with the agency’s funding guidelines for the invoicing of childcare fees, child attendance and funding allocation.
  • TUSLA – the National Child and Family Agency responsible for (among other things) early years provider inspections and compliance. The KCCC is subject to regular inspections from TUSLA to ensure the Centre is compliant with the Childcare Regulations 2006/Amendment 2016/Amendment 2018, which includes requirements for heat, lighting, furniture, hygiene, child sleep times and staff training. TUSLA inspectors arrive unannounced and audit staff files, child observation paperwork (which is now recorded in part using the Little Vista system) and other legally required documentation. TUSLA is interested to ensure the needs of each child are being met in the early years setting as part of the child-centred learning model implemented through the Aistear curriculum.
  • Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) – the overall national department responsible for early learning in Ireland. The KCCC would liaise with the department for matters regarding staff qualifications which are now a formal legal requirement.
  • Department of Education – the national department responsible for ensuring the implementation of curriculum and staff interactions. The KCCC is subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with national requirements.
  • Galway City and County Childcare Committee –  a local agency responsible for the implementation of of National Childcare Policy at local level on behalf of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs.

Staff qualifications and training

From 1 January 2017 all early learning providers throughout Ireland must ensure staff meet a minimum qualification of FETAC Level 5 in Early Years or Childhood Studies. ECCE Room Leaders are required to have a minimum FETAC Level 6 in Early Years or Childhood Studies. Room Leaders with a Level 7 qualification or higher can achieve a graduate premium (additional funding) for their Centre.

All staff must also undertake compulsory training in manual handling, pediatric first aid, fire training and child protection training. Staff must also be Garda vetted and achieve two validated references before their employment can be confirmed.

To learn more about the KCCC team please click here.