What Funding Options Are Available for Early Years Courses in Ireland?

Embarking on your journey into early childhood education is an exciting step toward a meaningful and rewarding career.

Investing in your education is also a financial decision and understanding what funding options are available can make all the difference when planning your studies.

Whether you’re just starting out in early learning and care or returning to education to upskill, there are several funding supports, grants, and payment options designed to make your qualification more accessible.

In this guide, we’ll outline the key funding routes available in Ireland for early years courses, along with how Portobello Institute can help you make your ambition a reality.

1. Government Funding and Grants

SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland)

If you’re enrolling in a full-time undergraduate early years course at a university, you may be eligible for a SUSI grant. SUSI provides financial support to students who meet certain residency, nationality, and income criteria.

Grants can cover tuition fees and contribute to living costs, making it one of the most significant supports available for students pursuing early years qualifications.

The limitation here is that you must be in a course delivered full-time at an Irish university, so this option is not available for blended learning study at Portobello Institute and does not suit those who want to continue working while studying.

2. Employer Sponsorship and Sector Support

Many early years professionals already working in childcare settings are supported by their employers to advance their qualifications.

Under the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) initiatives, services participating in the ECCE Scheme and other government programmes are encouraged to support staff development.

Employers may:

• Pay part or all of your course fees
• Offer study leave or flexible working arrangements
• Provide placement opportunities within your current setting

Portobello Institute’s flexible study modes, including blended and online learning, make it easier for working professionals to balance study, work, and family life.

3. Funding for Early Learning and Care (ELC) Professionals

The Learner Fund which is managed by Pobal supports staff working in registered Early Learning and Care (ELC) or School-Age Childcare (SAC) services to achieve qualifications.

Eligible learners can apply for partial or full funding toward QQI Level 5 and Level 6 Early Years courses.

The Learner Fund has been instrumental in helping practitioners meet qualification requirements under the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016.

You can find the latest details on eligibility and application timelines through Pobal’s website.

4. Skillnet Ireland Funding

Skillnet Ireland provides industry-led funding for professional upskilling across sectors including early years education.

Depending on your employment status and the specific Skillnet network, you may be able to access funding or discounted rates for certain accredited courses.

5. Instalment and Flexible Payment Plans with Portobello Institute

We understand that not every student will qualify for external funding and that financial flexibility is key to making your studies achievable.

At Portobello Institute, we offer easy payment plans so you can spread the cost of your course over manageable monthly payments.

Our admissions team can guide you through available payment options and help you choose a plan that suits your circumstances. This flexibility ensures that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of your goal to work in the Early Years sector.

6. Social Welfare and Return to Education Supports

If you are currently receiving a social welfare payment, you may be eligible for one of the following supports to help you return to education:

• Back to Education Allowance (BTEA): Allows you to keep your social welfare payment while studying an approved course.

• Part-Time Education Option (PTEO): Enables certain claimants to pursue part-time study while continuing to receive their payment.

Your local Intreo Centre or Department of Social Protection office can advise on eligibility and application processes.

7. Nurturing Skills Learner Fund (NSLF)

NSLF supports early year’s educators to pursue early learning and care (ELC) qualifications at level 7 and level 8 that have been approved by the Qualifications Advisory Board (QAB) while continuing to work in the sector.

Read our NSLF FAQ guide here for more.

Why Choose Portobello Institute?

For 45 years, Portobello Institute has been helping students across Ireland take the next step in their professional journey.

Our Early Years courses, from QQI level 5 to honours degree level, are designed with flexibility, support, and career progression in mind.

With blended learning options, dedicated tutors, and practical placements, we make it possible to gain your qualification while balancing work and personal commitments.

Most importantly, our team is here to guide you through every step - including exploring funding options and helping you access the financial supports that fit your situation.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Funding should never be a barrier to achieving your goals in early years education. Whether you’re just beginning your studies or advancing your qualifications, there’s support available to help you succeed.