A significant transformation of the early years sector is underway as Education Minister Paul Givan unveils the draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy.

The ambitious plan, which has received Executive approval, aims to drastically reduce the financial burden on parents while expanding the availability and sustainability of childcare services across Northern Ireland.

The draft strategy introduces a series of major proposals, including the transition to universal full-time pre-school education and a long-term goal of extending developmental provision to all children aged two to three. Furthermore, the plan outlines enhanced support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and measures to bolster the workforce for both childminders and centre-based providers.

Education Minister Paul Givan stated: "Today marks an important milestone for children, families and the early learning and childcare sector across Northern Ireland. The draft Strategy builds on the progress already made and sets out ambitious proposals to position Northern Ireland among the leading international models of early learning and childcare support.

"Since September 2024, almost 19,000 families have benefitted from the Childcare Subsidy Scheme, generating £19million in savings, rising to an estimated £40million when combined with Tax-Free Childcare.

"My ambition is clear. I want to deliver even greater childcare savings for families, reaching a point where more than half of childcare costs for working families are subsidised." The Minister highlighted that the strategy is the result of collaborative cross-departmental efforts and extensive consultation with stakeholders, parents, and providers. He emphasised that while the goals are ambitious, they are designed to be realistic within current financial constraints and the need for sustainable sector growth.

Minister Givan added: "This draft Strategy is the product of extensive work. It has been shaped by engagement with parents, providers and stakeholders; informed by research and evidence; and guided by the recommendations of independent reviews. It has also been developed on a cross-departmental basis, recognising that early learning and childcare touches education, health, communities and the economy.

"The draft Strategy sets out how we build on the progress that has been made over the past two years. It is ambitious, but it is also realistic. It recognises financial constraints, the need to protect existing provision, and the importance of growing the system at a pace the sector can sustain.

"The public consultation is a vital part of the development process and am keen to hear from as wide a range of people as possible. I want to ensure the final Strategy reflects the real-life priorities of children, parents and providers. I would encourage everyone with an interest to share their views."

A 14-week public consultation has been initiated, running until 24 March 2025. Interested parties can view the proposals and submit feedback via the Department of Education website. Additionally, a series of public consultation events are expected to be announced shortly.