FEES

We offer full-time care on a 5 day per week basis only, Monday to Friday. We do not offer part-time places.

Fees are paid monthly in advance by credit transfer. Fees are based on 51 weekly payments divided by 12 to give a fixed monthly charge. We are closed for 5 days over the Christmas period exclusive of bank holidays for which you are not charged.

For children who qualify for the ECCE (Early Childhood Care and Education)  and NSC (National Childcare Scheme) schemes, the subsidy is taken off the monthly fee. In addition, we apply a 10% reduction for siblings attending simultaneously.

Monthly fee:

€1,195.00 per month

Monthly fee less ECCE subsidy:

€990.75 per month

The NCS subsidy amount is awarded individually and will be calculated on registration of your child. From 1 January 2023 the standard NCS subsidy has risen from €0.50 to €1.40 per hour. This may increase depending on individual circumstances. It is the responsibility of parents/guardians to apply for this subsidy through the NCS hub and on successful approval we shall apply it to your fee.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Hours

We are here for you between the hours of 7.30am and 6.00pm, Monday to Friday.

Prompt collection of children in the evening is essential as late collection may upset your child. Children will not be allowed to leave the crèche with an unauthorised person or anyone under the age of 18 years. If there is a change in your collection arrangements please notify us by email with the details of who will be collecting your child.

The crèche is closed at Christmas for the statuary bank holidays plus five working days. You are not charged for those five days. We are also closed on Good Friday and bank holidays throughout the year. Unfortunately no fee concessions are possible for extra holidays or sick days.

Nutrition

The Clare Elizabeth Crèche provides three nourishing and well-balanced meals per day.

Breakfast of porridge or Weetabix is provided from 7.30am to 9.00am. The children have a mid-morning break with a snack of fresh fruit or vegetables and a drink of milk.

Our main meal of the day is supplied by Nosebag Catering. They provide a varied menu with emphases on freshness and nutrition in a HACCP registered kitchen. Please inform us of any food allergies or intolerances your child may have and we will notify Nosebag Catering who will provide an alternative meal. Our daily menu is displayed at the front door.

Infectious Diseases

To protect your child and all other children in the crèche, infectious diseases must be reported to us immediately. A child suffering from vomiting must stay out of the creche for a period of 48 hours. If your child is prescribed an antibiotic they must stay out for 24 hours after the first dose is administered. If your child contracts an infectious disease please contact management by phone before coming to the crèche and we will advise on the next steps. These measures are necessary due to the risk of infecting other children and staff. We advise that parents make alternative arrangements for the care of their child in case of illness. This is best arranged before the child starts with us.

Ratios

We adhere to the adult/child ratios as laid down by Tusla. Their regulations stipulate the following ratios:

Wobblers: 5 to 1 adult;   Toddlers: 5 to 1 adult;  Juniors: 6 to 1 adult;  Seniors: 8 to 1 adult.

Insurance

We are insured with Zurich Insurance under the Early Childhood Ireland special crèche scheme.

Fire Drill

All children and staff take part in a Fire Drill practice once a month.

Birthdays

We celebrate each child’s birthday with a special cake and a photograph. All the children share and enjoy these occasions.