This event, funded by Creative Ireland Programme*, will see artists and educators share their experiences of working on the pilot Arts in Early Learning and care (ELC) and School-age Childcare Scheme (SAC). The pilot scheme, developed and funded by The Arts Council in partnership with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY), is supporting professional artists and arts organisations to work with ELC and SAC settings, and to explore the Draft Principles for Engaging with the Arts in Early Learning and Care, published by the DCEDIY.

This event will see artists Maree Hensey and Naomi Draper, working with Kids' Own Publishing Partnership, early years educator Joanna Wyvar, from Inspiring Mind Preschool and Kids’ Own’s creative director, Ciara Gallagher, share their projects and their experiences of the pilot scheme. The event will include visual presentations followed by a discussion about the opportunities and challenges of working collaboratively. Visual representations will also feature the work of the other artists and arts organisations participating in the pilot scheme, namely Mónica Muñoz, Graffiti Beag and The Ark.

Amanda Pintore, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Fulbright US Specialist, will conclude the discussion, reflecting on her experiences of working with early years educators, students and young children at Arizona State University, USA.

The event will be facilitated by Dr. Rita Melia, Lecturer in Early Childhood Education at ATU and Coordinator of the pilot scheme.

This event offers an opportunity for those working in ELC and SAC settings, artists and arts organisations delivering or interested in delivering high quality arts in ELC and SAC to share and network. Those attending will be welcomed from 18:00, with the event to start at 18:30 sharp, and will conclude with a reception and networking opportunity from 20:00.