The free pre-school year is on its own page.
Quick facts
- Sure Start
- Pregnancy to the child's fourth birthday
- Sure Start projects
- 38 across Northern Ireland
- Deferral
- For children young for their year
- Special needs assessment
- Ask the Education Authority
Sure Start
The Sure Start programme supports young children and their families, living in disadvantaged areas in Northern Ireland. The programme provides support to parents from pregnancy until their child’s fourth birthday. There are 38 Sure Start projects across Northern Ireland.
Playgroups
Playgroups let your child learn through play while you meet other parents in your area, and you can take part in your child's early years education.
Deferring school
Children who are young for their school year, including some premature babies, can start pre-school and then primary school a year later. Ask the Education Authority about the process and its deadlines.
Special educational needs under five
All publicly funded pre-schools and nurseries must take into account the 'Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs'.
You can ask for an assessment for your child and so can your child's nursery or school. If your child is not attending a nursery or other early years setting, you can talk to the Education Authority (EA) in your region.
Common questions
Who can use Sure Start in Northern Ireland?
Families with young children in disadvantaged areas, from pregnancy until the child's fourth birthday.
Can I ask for a special educational needs assessment for my child?
Yes. You can ask the Education Authority, and so can your child's nursery or school.