As September approaches, many Early Years and School Age Care services are preparing to welcome new children. For many providers, places are filling quickly, waiting lists are growing and parents/guardians are actively seeking available childcare places. 

 

 

Why Is an Admissions Policy So Important? 

 

Demand for childcare places may be high and managing admission applications transparently and promptly  is crucial. 

 

This is where a clear Admissions Policy becomes invaluable as it sets out the Service’s criteria in relation to childcare places by setting out: 

 

• How and when parents/guardians can apply for a childcare places 

• How applications should be submitted 

• How waiting lists are managed 

• The criteria used when allocating places 

• When and how parents will be notified of an available place or whether their child is being placed on the waiting list. 

• How parents can accept or decline an offered place 

• What happens if a family needs to update information on their application 

• Any further registration requirements or associated procedures 

 

Setting Expectations from the Start 

 

Clear communication helps build positive relationships with families from day one. 

 

An effective Admissions Policy also supports managers and owners by providing a consistent framework for decision-making and helping to ensure compliance with best practice in relation to allocation of childcare places within a service. 

 

Special Offer – Admissions Policy and Child Registration Form 

 

To support providers preparing for the new registration season, we are delighted to offer our updated Admissions Policy template  and Child Registration Form through our online shop at the special price of €50.00 until the end of July 2026:  https://earlyyearsshop.ie/product/admission-policy-child-registration-form-pack/

 

Now is the perfect time to review your admissions procedures and ensure you are fully prepared for the busy September registration period.