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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260127T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260127T113000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260114T153242Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T154413Z
UID:8114-1769508000-1769513400@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:Childcare Subsidies Explained: Don't miss out!
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday 27 January 2026 at 10:00am – 11:30am or 7:00pm – 8:30pm. \n\n\n\nJoin us to find out about financial support available for many working families earning up to £200k. \n\n\n\nMany working parents with household incomes of up to £200\,000 may be entitled to financial help with childcare costs – and don’t realise it. \n\n\n\nJoin this information session with Chris Briggs\, Senior Family Benefits Advisor at Employers For Childcare\, to learn about the range of childcare supports available\, including for families with working parents. \n\n\n\nThe session will be split into two parts\, the first half will cover general information on financial support available to all families whilst the second part delves into support available to working families including Tax Free Childcare and the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS). \n\n\n\nWe will cover: \n\n\n\n\nHow to make sure you’re getting the best support for your family\n\n\n\nThe benefits of registering with TFC/NICSS\n\n\n\nDiscussions on the lived experience of TFC/NICSS from a parent and provider perspective\n\n\n\nWorked scenarios that provide an illustration of real term savings.\n\n\n\n\nThis session is suitable for: \n\n\n\n\nCommittee members.\n\n\n\nParents\n\n\n\nHSCT Registered Childcare owners\n\n\n\nChildcare managers and deputies\n\n\n\nChildcare staff
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/childcare-subsidies-explained-dont-miss-out/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/FinSupport-Jan26web.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260217T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260217T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260130T112739Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T173340Z
UID:8125-1771320600-1771329600@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:Consultation Workshop on Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy
DESCRIPTION:Ballymena – Leighinmohr House Hotel\, Leighinmohr Avenue\, Ballymena BT42 2AN \n\n\n\nSchool-age childcare matters! \n\n\n\nRegister now! \n\n\n\nAre you a school-age childcare provider or the parent of a school-age child? Have your say on the future of school-age childcare in Northern Ireland. \n\n\n\nThe Department of Education is currently consulting on the Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy – the NI Executive’s long-term plan to deliver more affordable\, accessible and high-quality childcare. \n\n\n\nThis consultation is a critical opportunity to influence decisions that will shape childcare policy\, funding and support for the immediate and long-term future. \n\n\n\nSchool-age childcare plays a vital role in supporting children\, families\, and communities across Northern Ireland. However\, the sector has long been under-recognised and under-resourced. Without clear recognition in the final strategy\, there is a real risk that the needs of school-age children\, and the providers who support them\, will continue to be overlooked. \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to make sure that school-age childcare is clearly recognised\, valued and adequately resourced. \n\n\n\nYour voice matters. Now is the time to use it. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of consultation workshops\, dedicated specifically to school-age childcare provision. These sessions will: \n\n\n\n\nBreak down what the draft strategy really means for the SAC sector\n\n\n\nHighlight gaps\, risks and opportunities for school-age provision\n\n\n\nCreate space to collectively explore practical\, realistic outcomes aligned with the proposed policy direction\n\n\n\nSupport participants to develop informed\, confident responses to the consultation\n\n\n\nHelp key stakeholders better understand the priorities and lived realities of the SAC sector.\n\n\n\n\nWe will be inviting local representatives and MLAs to join the consultation sessions to hear directly from YOU the sector and users of school-age childcare services. \n\n\n\nWe strongly urge anyone who works in\, uses\, or has an interest in school-age childcare to attend\, speak up\, and help shape a future where the sector – and the children it supports – are recognised and prioritised as key components of the childcare infrastructure in Northern Ireland. \n\n\n\nRegistration opens at 9:30am with tea and coffee\, with the consultation running until 12 noon. \n\n\n\nDue to expected high demand and limited places\, we would respectfully ask that you let us know if you are no longer able to attend. \n\n\n\nIf you require further information\, please contact katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk \n\n\n\n\n\nView other workshop dates
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/consultation-workshop-on-draft-early-learning-childcare-strategy-4/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PB-CCS-info-sessions-web-Ballymena.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260218T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260218T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260130T112730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T173323Z
UID:8131-1771407000-1771416000@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:Consultation Workshop on Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy
DESCRIPTION:Ballynahinch – Ballynahinch Community Centre\, 55 Windmill Street\, Ballynahinch BT24 8HB \n\n\n\nSchool-age childcare matters! \n\n\n\nRegister now! \n\n\n\nAre you a school-age childcare provider or the parent of a school-age child? Have your say on the future of school-age childcare in Northern Ireland. \n\n\n\nThe Department of Education is currently consulting on the Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy – the NI Executive’s long-term plan to deliver more affordable\, accessible and high-quality childcare. \n\n\n\nThis consultation is a critical opportunity to influence decisions that will shape childcare policy\, funding and support for the immediate and long-term future. \n\n\n\nSchool-age childcare plays a vital role in supporting children\, families\, and communities across Northern Ireland. However\, the sector has long been under-recognised and under-resourced. Without clear recognition in the final strategy\, there is a real risk that the needs of school-age children\, and the providers who support them\, will continue to be overlooked. \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to make sure that school-age childcare is clearly recognised\, valued and adequately resourced. \n\n\n\nYour voice matters. Now is the time to use it. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of consultation workshops\, dedicated specifically to school-age childcare provision. These sessions will: \n\n\n\n\nBreak down what the draft strategy really means for the SAC sector\n\n\n\nHighlight gaps\, risks and opportunities for school-age provision\n\n\n\nCreate space to collectively explore practical\, realistic outcomes aligned with the proposed policy direction\n\n\n\nSupport participants to develop informed\, confident responses to the consultation\n\n\n\nHelp key stakeholders better understand the priorities and lived realities of the SAC sector.\n\n\n\n\nWe will be inviting local representatives and MLAs to join the consultation sessions to hear directly from YOU the sector and users of school-age childcare services. \n\n\n\nWe strongly urge anyone who works in\, uses\, or has an interest in school-age childcare to attend\, speak up\, and help shape a future where the sector – and the children it supports – are recognised and prioritised as key components of the childcare infrastructure in Northern Ireland. \n\n\n\nRegistration opens at 9:30am with tea and coffee\, with the consultation running until 12 noon. \n\n\n\nDue to expected high demand and limited places\, we would respectfully ask that you let us know if you are no longer able to attend. \n\n\n\nIf you require further information\, please contact katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk \n\n\n\n\n\nView other workshop dates
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/consultation-workshop-on-draft-early-learning-childcare-strategy-3/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PB-CCS-info-sessions-web-Ballynahinch.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260224T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260224T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260130T112721Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T173311Z
UID:8135-1771925400-1771934400@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:Consultation Workshop on Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy
DESCRIPTION:Omagh – Omagh Enterprise Center\, Great Northern Road\, Omagh BT78 5LU \n\n\n\nSchool-age childcare matters! \n\n\n\nRegister now! \n\n\n\nAre you a school-age childcare provider or the parent of a school-age child? Have your say on the future of school-age childcare in Northern Ireland. \n\n\n\nThe Department of Education is currently consulting on the Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy – the NI Executive’s long-term plan to deliver more affordable\, accessible and high-quality childcare. \n\n\n\nThis consultation is a critical opportunity to influence decisions that will shape childcare policy\, funding and support for the immediate and long-term future. \n\n\n\nSchool-age childcare plays a vital role in supporting children\, families\, and communities across Northern Ireland. However\, the sector has long been under-recognised and under-resourced. Without clear recognition in the final strategy\, there is a real risk that the needs of school-age children\, and the providers who support them\, will continue to be overlooked. \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to make sure that school-age childcare is clearly recognised\, valued and adequately resourced. \n\n\n\nYour voice matters. Now is the time to use it. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of consultation workshops\, dedicated specifically to school-age childcare provision. These sessions will: \n\n\n\n\nBreak down what the draft strategy really means for the SAC sector\n\n\n\nHighlight gaps\, risks and opportunities for school-age provision\n\n\n\nCreate space to collectively explore practical\, realistic outcomes aligned with the proposed policy direction\n\n\n\nSupport participants to develop informed\, confident responses to the consultation\n\n\n\nHelp key stakeholders better understand the priorities and lived realities of the SAC sector.\n\n\n\n\nWe will be inviting local representatives and MLAs to join the consultation sessions to hear directly from YOU the sector and users of school-age childcare services. \n\n\n\nWe strongly urge anyone who works in\, uses\, or has an interest in school-age childcare to attend\, speak up\, and help shape a future where the sector – and the children it supports – are recognised and prioritised as key components of the childcare infrastructure in Northern Ireland. \n\n\n\nRegistration opens at 9:30am with tea and coffee\, with the consultation running until 12 noon. \n\n\n\nDue to expected high demand and limited places\, we would respectfully ask that you let us know if you are no longer able to attend. \n\n\n\nIf you require further information\, please contact katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk \n\n\n\n\n\nView other workshop dates
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/consultation-workshop-on-draft-early-learning-childcare-strategy-2/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PB-CCS-info-sessions-web-Omagh.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260225T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260225T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260130T112712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T173257Z
UID:8140-1772011800-1772020800@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:Consultation Workshop on Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy
DESCRIPTION:Belfast – Girdwood Community Hub\, 10 Girdwood Avenue\, Belfast BT14 6EG \n\n\n\nSchool-age childcare matters! \n\n\n\nRegister now! \n\n\n\nAre you a school-age childcare provider or the parent of a school-age child? Have your say on the future of school-age childcare in Northern Ireland. \n\n\n\nThe Department of Education is currently consulting on the Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy – the NI Executive’s long-term plan to deliver more affordable\, accessible and high-quality childcare. \n\n\n\nThis consultation is a critical opportunity to influence decisions that will shape childcare policy\, funding and support for the immediate and long-term future. \n\n\n\nSchool-age childcare plays a vital role in supporting children\, families\, and communities across Northern Ireland. However\, the sector has long been under-recognised and under-resourced. Without clear recognition in the final strategy\, there is a real risk that the needs of school-age children\, and the providers who support them\, will continue to be overlooked. \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to make sure that school-age childcare is clearly recognised\, valued and adequately resourced. \n\n\n\nYour voice matters. Now is the time to use it. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of consultation workshops\, dedicated specifically to school-age childcare provision. These sessions will: \n\n\n\n\nBreak down what the draft strategy really means for the SAC sector\n\n\n\nHighlight gaps\, risks and opportunities for school-age provision\n\n\n\nCreate space to collectively explore practical\, realistic outcomes aligned with the proposed policy direction\n\n\n\nSupport participants to develop informed\, confident responses to the consultation\n\n\n\nHelp key stakeholders better understand the priorities and lived realities of the SAC sector.\n\n\n\n\nWe will be inviting local representatives and MLAs to join the consultation sessions to hear directly from YOU the sector and users of school-age childcare services. \n\n\n\nWe strongly urge anyone who works in\, uses\, or has an interest in school-age childcare to attend\, speak up\, and help shape a future where the sector – and the children it supports – are recognised and prioritised as key components of the childcare infrastructure in Northern Ireland. \n\n\n\nRegistration opens at 9:30am with tea and coffee\, with the consultation running until 12 noon. \n\n\n\nDue to expected high demand and limited places\, we would respectfully ask that you let us know if you are no longer able to attend. \n\n\n\nIf you require further information\, please contact katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk \n\n\n\n\n\nView other workshop dates
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/consultation-workshop-on-draft-early-learning-childcare-strategy/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/PB-CCS-info-sessions-web-Belfast.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260210T121706Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T173241Z
UID:8177-1772100000-1772107200@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:Consultation Workshop on Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy
DESCRIPTION:Online  \n\n\n\nSchool-age childcare matters! \n\n\n\nRegister now!  \n\n\n\nAre you a school-age childcare provider or the parent of a school-age child? Have your say on the future of school-age childcare in Northern Ireland. \n\n\n\nThe Department of Education is currently consulting on the Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy – the NI Executive’s long-term plan to deliver more affordable\, accessible and high-quality childcare. \n\n\n\nThis consultation is a critical opportunity to influence decisions that will shape childcare policy\, funding and support for the immediate and long-term future. \n\n\n\nSchool-age childcare plays a vital role in supporting children\, families\, and communities across Northern Ireland. However\, the sector has long been under-recognised and under-resourced. Without clear recognition in the final strategy\, there is a real risk that the needs of school-age children\, and the providers who support them\, will continue to be overlooked. \n\n\n\nA representative from the Department of Education will be in attendance at this workshop. \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to make sure that school-age childcare is clearly recognised\, valued and adequately resourced. Your voice matters. Now is the time to use it. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of consultation workshops\, dedicated specifically to school-age childcare provision. These sessions will: \n\n\n\n\nBreak down what the draft strategy really means for the SAC sector\n\n\n\nHighlight gaps\, risks and opportunities for school-age provision\n\n\n\nCreate space to collectively explore practical\, realistic outcomes aligned with the proposed policy direction\n\n\n\nSupport participants to develop informed\, confident responses to the consultation\n\n\n\nHelp key stakeholders better understand the priorities and lived realities of the SAC sector.\n\n\n\n\nWe will be inviting local representatives and MLAs to join the consultation sessions to hear directly from YOU the sector and users of school-age childcare services. \n\n\n\nWe strongly urge anyone who works in\, uses\, or has an interest in school-age childcare to attend\, speak up\, and help shape a future where the sector – and the children it supports – are recognised and prioritised as key components of the childcare infrastructure in Northern Ireland. \n\n\n\nDue to expected high demand and limited places\, we would respectfully ask that you let us know if you are no longer able to attend. \n\n\n\nIf you require further information\, please contact katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk \n\n\n\n\n\nView other workshop dates
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/consultation-workshop-on-draft-early-learning-childcare-strategy-5/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/PB-CCS-info-sessions-web-Online.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260311T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260311T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260217T182639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260302T144623Z
UID:8194-1773223200-1773230400@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:A Place for Play
DESCRIPTION:Various dates & locations. \n\n\n\nRefresh your play space! \n\n\n\nJoin us on the date and location convenient to you. All sessions run from 10:00am – 12:00pm. \n\n\n\n\n3 March – Drumellan Afterschools – 12 Drumellan Court\, Craigavon BT65 5HT\n\n\n\n4 March – Belfast YMCA – 56-58 Knightsbridge Park\, Stranmillis\, Belfast BT9 5EH\n\n\n\n5 March – Lisbane Afterschool Club – 16-18 Lisbarnet Road\, Comber\, Lisbane\, Newtownards BT23 6AW\n\n\n\n10 March – Kids Inn Afterschool Club – The Vale Centre\, Clooney Road\, Greysteel BT47 3GE\n\n\n\n11 March – St John’s PS Afterschool Club – 30 Moneysharvan Road\, Swatragh\, Maghera BT46 5PY\n\n\n\n\nStep into a child’s shoes and explore what makes a school-aged childcare setting feel like a place for each child to belong. Through practical activities and shared discussion\, we will discover simple and cost-effective ways to rethink your layout\, refresh your play space and build an environment that responds to the different needs and interests of the children. \n\n\n\nTake away fresh ideas\, realistic strategies and the confidence to develop play opportunities that are meaningful\, age-appropriate and shaped by children’s voices. Connect with other afterschool staff\, share good practice and leave feeling energised with new inspiration for your setting. Come along\, get creative and help transform your setting into a place where children can thrive. \n\n\n\nThis session is suitable for school-age childcare staff. \n\n\n\nPlease contact meryl.boyd@playboard.co.uk if you require any further information.
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/a-place-for-play/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/place-for-play-web.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260319T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260319T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260217T182617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T101247Z
UID:8199-1773914400-1773921600@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:Planning for Play
DESCRIPTION:*FULLY BOOKED* \n\n\n\nRe-energise play in your afterschool setting! \n\n\n\nStep back from the paperwork and the pressure and reconnect with what really matters – children’s play. This session is designed to be fun and engaging with practical ideas to plan for meaningful\, play-based experiences in school-aged childcare shaped by the voices\, interests and ideas of the children themselves. Working in afterschool isn’t easy. Time is tight\, expectations are high fun\, risk feels ever-present and screens are competing hard for children’s attention. This session offers a space to pause. Reflect and get inspired\, share ideas\, challenges and successes with others who truly understand the sector. \n\n\n\nYou’ll explore realistic\, creative ways to plan quality\, age-appropriate play experiences that respond to the diverse needs of the children in your setting\, supporting their well-being\, development and sense of belonging while strengthening your provision at the same time. \n\n\n\nCome together with fellow practitioners\, spark new ideas and rediscover the power of play. \n\n\n\nLet’s work together to get children playing more – and playing better! \n\n\n\nThis online session is suitable for school-aged childcare staff. \n\n\n\nPlease contact meryl.boyd@playboard.co.uk if you require any further information.
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/planning-for-play/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/planning-for-play-web.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260429T113000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260429T130000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260423T092357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T092358Z
UID:8388-1777462200-1777467600@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (Mid Ulster)
DESCRIPTION:Krafty Kidz Coalisland – Parochial Centre (Youth Club)\, 12 Stewartstown Road\, Coalisland\, Co Tyrone BT71 4PF \n\n\n\nHave your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare. \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents \n\n\n\nAs the Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy continues to develop\, this is a critical moment to ensure it reflects the real experiences of children\, families and services on the ground. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of informal “Meet and Greet” sessions\, bringing together School-Age Childcare (SAC) providers and local MLAs to support open\, constructive and solution-focused dialogue. \n\n\n\nWhy This Matters \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare plays a vital role in: \n\n\n\n\nSupporting children’s development and well-being\n\n\n\nEnabling parental employment\n\n\n\nSustaining local communities\n\n\n\n\nYet\, there are growing concerns that the needs of children aged 4 to 11 years\, and the services that support them\, are not fully reflected within the draft ELC Strategy. \n\n\n\nThe decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade. \n\n\n\nWhat This Session Offers \n\n\n\n\nA short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context\n\n\n\nDirect engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs\n\n\n\nInformal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights\n\n\n\nOpportunity to explore challenges\, solutions and future direction\n\n\n\n\nFor Providers \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nShare your experience of delivering SAC\n\n\n\nHighlight the challenges facing your setting\n\n\n\nRaise the profile of SAC within your constituency\n\n\n\nInfluence policy and decision-making\n\n\n\n\nFor MLAs \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nHear directly from providers in your constituency\n\n\n\nUnderstand the pressures facing the sector\n\n\n\nExplore the impact on local families\n\n\n\nInform your role in shaping future childcare policy\n\n\n\n\nYour Voice Matters \n\n\n\nWithout meaningful engagement between providers and decision-makers\, there is a real risk that School-Age Childcare\, and the children and families it supports\, will continue to be overlooked.
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/school-age-childcare-matters-mla-engagement-mid-ulster/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/SAC-Matters-web.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260430T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260430T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260423T092514Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T092514Z
UID:8390-1777545000-1777550400@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (South Antrim)
DESCRIPTION:Antrim Enterprise Agency\, 58 Greystone Road\, Antrim BT41 1JZ \n\n\n\nHave your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare. \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents \n\n\n\nAs the Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy continues to develop\, this is a critical moment to ensure it reflects the real experiences of children\, families and services on the ground. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of informal “Meet and Greet” sessions\, bringing together School-Age Childcare (SAC) providers and local MLAs to support open\, constructive and solution-focused dialogue. \n\n\n\nWhy This Matters \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare plays a vital role in: \n\n\n\n\nSupporting children’s development and well-being\n\n\n\nEnabling parental employment\n\n\n\nSustaining local communities\n\n\n\n\nYet\, there are growing concerns that the needs of children aged 4 to 11 years\, and the services that support them\, are not fully reflected within the draft ELC Strategy. \n\n\n\nThe decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade. \n\n\n\nWhat This Session Offers \n\n\n\n\nA short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context\n\n\n\nDirect engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs\n\n\n\nInformal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights\n\n\n\nOpportunity to explore challenges\, solutions and future direction\n\n\n\n\nFor Providers \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nShare your experience of delivering SAC\n\n\n\nHighlight the challenges facing your setting\n\n\n\nRaise the profile of SAC within your constituency\n\n\n\nInfluence policy and decision-making\n\n\n\n\nFor MLAs \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nHear directly from providers in your constituency\n\n\n\nUnderstand the pressures facing the sector\n\n\n\nExplore the impact on local families\n\n\n\nInform your role in shaping future childcare policy\n\n\n\n\nYour Voice Matters \n\n\n\nWithout meaningful engagement between providers and decision-makers\, there is a real risk that School-Age Childcare\, and the children and families it supports\, will continue to be overlooked.
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/school-age-childcare-matters-mla-engagement-south-antrim/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/SAC-Matters-web.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260505T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260505T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260423T092620Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T092621Z
UID:8398-1777977000-1777982400@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (Belfast)
DESCRIPTION:Girdwood Community Hub\, 10 Girdwood Avenue\, Belfast BT14 6EG \n\n\n\nHave your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare. \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents \n\n\n\nAs the Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy continues to develop\, this is a critical moment to ensure it reflects the real experiences of children\, families and services on the ground. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of informal “Meet and Greet” sessions\, bringing together School-Age Childcare (SAC) providers and local MLAs to support open\, constructive and solution-focused dialogue. \n\n\n\nWhy This Matters \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare plays a vital role in: \n\n\n\n\nSupporting children’s development and well-being\n\n\n\nEnabling parental employment\n\n\n\nSustaining local communities\n\n\n\n\nYet\, there are growing concerns that the needs of children aged 4–11\, and the services that support them\, are not fully reflected within the draft ELC Strategy. \n\n\n\nThe decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade. \n\n\n\nWhat This Session Offers \n\n\n\n\nA short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context\n\n\n\nDirect engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs\n\n\n\nInformal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights\n\n\n\nOpportunity to explore challenges\, solutions and future direction\n\n\n\n\nFor Providers \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nShare your experience of delivering SAC\n\n\n\nHighlight the challenges facing your setting\n\n\n\nRaise the profile of SAC within your constituency\n\n\n\nInfluence policy and decision-making\n\n\n\n\nFor MLAs \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nHear directly from providers in your constituency\n\n\n\nUnderstand the pressures facing the sector\n\n\n\nExplore the impact on local families\n\n\n\nInform your role in shaping future childcare policy\n\n\n\n\nYour Voice Matters \n\n\n\nWithout meaningful engagement between providers and decision-makers\, there is a real risk that School-Age Childcare\, and the children and families it supports\, will continue to be overlooked.
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/school-age-childcare-matters-mla-engagement-belfast/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/SAC-Matters-web.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260507T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260507T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260423T092836Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T092837Z
UID:8400-1778149800-1778155200@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (Foyle)
DESCRIPTION:Drumahoe Childcare (Londonderry YMCA)\, 51 Glenshane Road\, Drumahoe\, Derry/Londonderry BT47 3SF \n\n\n\nHave your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare. \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents \n\n\n\nAs the Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy continues to develop\, this is a critical moment to ensure it reflects the real experiences of children\, families and services on the ground. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of informal “Meet and Greet” sessions\, bringing together School-Age Childcare (SAC) providers and local MLAs to support open\, constructive and solution-focused dialogue. \n\n\n\nWhy This Matters \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare plays a vital role in: \n\n\n\n\nSupporting children’s development and well-being\n\n\n\nEnabling parental employment\n\n\n\nSustaining local communities\n\n\n\n\nYet\, there are growing concerns that the needs of children aged 4–11\, and the services that support them\, are not fully reflected within the draft ELC Strategy. \n\n\n\nThe decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade. \n\n\n\nWhat This Session Offers \n\n\n\n\nA short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context\n\n\n\nDirect engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs\n\n\n\nInformal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights\n\n\n\nOpportunity to explore challenges\, solutions and future direction\n\n\n\n\nFor Providers \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nShare your experience of delivering SAC\n\n\n\nHighlight the challenges facing your setting\n\n\n\nRaise the profile of SAC within your constituency\n\n\n\nInfluence policy and decision-making\n\n\n\n\nFor MLAs \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nHear directly from providers in your constituency\n\n\n\nUnderstand the pressures facing the sector\n\n\n\nExplore the impact on local families\n\n\n\nInform your role in shaping future childcare policy\n\n\n\n\nYour Voice Matters \n\n\n\nWithout meaningful engagement between providers and decision-makers\, there is a real risk that School-Age Childcare\, and the children and families it supports\, will continue to be overlooked.
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/school-age-childcare-matters-mla-engagement-foyle/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/SAC-Matters-web.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260519T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260519T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260423T092954Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T092954Z
UID:8404-1779186600-1779192000@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (Mid Ulster)
DESCRIPTION:Magherafelt Women’s Group\, 27-29 Moneymore Road\, Magherafelt BT45 6AG \n\n\n\nHave your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare. \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents \n\n\n\nAs the Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy continues to develop\, this is a critical moment to ensure it reflects the real experiences of children\, families and services on the ground. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of informal “Meet and Greet” sessions\, bringing together School-Age Childcare (SAC) providers and local MLAs to support open\, constructive and solution-focused dialogue. \n\n\n\nWhy This Matters \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare plays a vital role in: \n\n\n\n\nSupporting children’s development and well-being\n\n\n\nEnabling parental employment\n\n\n\nSustaining local communities\n\n\n\n\nYet\, there are growing concerns that the needs of children aged 4–11\, and the services that support them\, are not fully reflected within the draft ELC Strategy. \n\n\n\nThe decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade. \n\n\n\nWhat This Session Offers \n\n\n\n\nA short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context\n\n\n\nDirect engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs\n\n\n\nInformal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights\n\n\n\nOpportunity to explore challenges\, solutions and future direction\n\n\n\n\nFor Providers \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nShare your experience of delivering SAC\n\n\n\nHighlight the challenges facing your setting\n\n\n\nRaise the profile of SAC within your constituency\n\n\n\nInfluence policy and decision-making\n\n\n\n\nFor MLAs \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nHear directly from providers in your constituency\n\n\n\nUnderstand the pressures facing the sector\n\n\n\nExplore the impact on local families\n\n\n\nInform your role in shaping future childcare policy\n\n\n\n\nYour Voice Matters \n\n\n\nWithout meaningful engagement between providers and decision-makers\, there is a real risk that School-Age Childcare\, and the children and families it supports\, will continue to be overlooked.
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/school-age-childcare-matters-mla-engagement-mid-ulster-2/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/SAC-Matters-web.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260521T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260521T120000
DTSTAMP:20260424T004036
CREATED:20260423T093107Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T093108Z
UID:8407-1779359400-1779364800@www.playboard.org
SUMMARY:School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement
DESCRIPTION:Clandeboye Nature Rangers (Clandeboye Estate)\, 491a Belfast Road\, Bangor BT19 1RL \n\n\n\nHave your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare. \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents \n\n\n\nAs the Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy continues to develop\, this is a critical moment to ensure it reflects the real experiences of children\, families and services on the ground. \n\n\n\nPlayBoard is hosting a series of informal “Meet and Greet” sessions\, bringing together School-Age Childcare (SAC) providers and local MLAs to support open\, constructive and solution-focused dialogue. \n\n\n\nWhy This Matters \n\n\n\nSchool-Age Childcare plays a vital role in: \n\n\n\n\nSupporting children’s development and well-being\n\n\n\nEnabling parental employment\n\n\n\nSustaining local communities\n\n\n\n\nYet\, there are growing concerns that the needs of children aged 4–11\, and the services that support them\, are not fully reflected within the draft ELC Strategy. \n\n\n\nThe decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade. \n\n\n\nWhat This Session Offers \n\n\n\n\nA short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context\n\n\n\nDirect engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs\n\n\n\nInformal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights\n\n\n\nOpportunity to explore challenges\, solutions and future direction\n\n\n\n\nFor Providers \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nShare your experience of delivering SAC\n\n\n\nHighlight the challenges facing your setting\n\n\n\nRaise the profile of SAC within your constituency\n\n\n\nInfluence policy and decision-making\n\n\n\n\nFor MLAs \n\n\n\nThis is your opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\nHear directly from providers in your constituency\n\n\n\nUnderstand the pressures facing the sector\n\n\n\nExplore the impact on local families\n\n\n\nInform your role in shaping future childcare policy\n\n\n\n\nYour Voice Matters \n\n\n\nWithout meaningful engagement between providers and decision-makers\, there is a real risk that School-Age Childcare\, and the children and families it supports\, will continue to be overlooked.
URL:https://www.playboard.org/event/school-age-childcare-matters-mla-engagement/
CATEGORIES:Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.playboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/SAC-Matters-web.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR