Progressing Play In Ireland
2025-01-22 12:00 - 14:00 (Europe/London)
Join PlayBoard NI and the National Childhood Network for an insightful online event on Wednesday 22 January 2025, 12:00 – 2:00pm.

The event will offer a first-look at the results of our recent survey on children and young people’s play in Ireland. This is a unique opportunity focusing on the voice of children and young people and their thoughts on the importance of play, and the challenges they face in realising their Right to Play.

We are also delighted to launch a branch of the International Play Association (IPA) in Ireland during the event. IPA Ireland will further the work of IPA, striving to protect, preserve and promote the child’s Right to Play locally.

Event speakers:

Alan Herron, CEO of PlayBoard NI

Michelle Hart, CEO of the National Childhood Network

Robyn Monro Miller, President of the International Play Association

Jacqueline O’Loughlin, Chair of International Play Association NI

Dr Helen Lynch, Senior Lecturer, Researcher, and Coordinator of P4Play

Shelly McGee, Development Officer for School-Age Childcare & Play, National Childhood Network

Join the conversation on progressing play in Ireland – register now.

What to Expect at Inspection
2025-01-24 10:00 - 12:00
A practical look at how to prepare for inspection and effectively managing logistics on the day.

In this free two-hour session for school-age childcare providers, we will delve into the key strategies for preparing for an inspection, covering all the essential steps in the lead-up to inspection.

Additionally, we will focus on managing logistics on the day itself, including staffing coordination, maintaining routines, and effectively addressing any challenges that may arise during the inspection process.

This interactive session encourages participants to share insights and collaborate on problem-solving, drawing from your own experiences to address challenges encountered in previous inspections.

This webinar is suitable for school-age childcare registered persons, managers, deputy managers and staff.

Facilitator: Shelly McGee

Book your FREE place at https://PBInspections240125.eventbrite.co.uk

Employers for Childcare webinar
2025-02-05 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-02-06 10:00 - 11:30
This session has been postponed to 12 March. Bookings will open soon. We apologise for any inconvenience.

Information session on financial support available to working parents accessing childcare.

Chris Briggs, Senior Family Benefits Advisor with Employers For Childcare will be delivering an information session to School-Age Childcare providers and parents which will give an overview of the financial support available for parents towards the cost of registered School-Age Childcare.

The session is suitable for School-Age Childcare managers, deputy managers, staff and parents.

OUR Generation information session
2025-02-07 10:30 - 11:00
OUR Generation is a partnership, led by Action Mental Health, which aims to empower and invest in our children and young people. Bringing together the expertise of nine partner organisations, the project is committed to delivering impactful initiatives to support children and young people’s mental health and well-being. The partnership builds on the highly successful PEACE IV OUR Generation project.

PlayBoard NI, in collaboration with Action Mental Health and Cooperation Ireland, is hosting two online information sessions for prospective participants.

We will be delivering programmes for children aged 9 to 11 years in schools, community groups, and School-Age Childcare settings across the following areas:

Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon Council area

Newry, Mourne, Down Council area

Border area of County Monaghan

Border area of County Louth

BOOK

Book now to find out more about our FREE programmes and the prospective benefits to your school or setting. Please email hayley.ford@playboard.co.uk

FURTHER INFORMATION

PlayBoard’s OUR Generation programme – advocating the use of play as a means of supporting the development of childhood resilience, and as a mechanism for positively addressing differences.

OUR Generation project

Let’s have a conversation …. New financial year, upcoming financial changes and potential impact
2025-02-18 10:00 - 11:00
FREE webinar for School-Age Childcare providers.

Join the informal conversation to explore the Budget changes announced in October 2024, and the impact it may have on your finances. We will also discuss what out of school childcare settings should be doing to prepare and plan ahead of the new financial year.

1. What exactly are the changes and are they applicable to School-Age-Childcare settings?

2. Financial impact of these changes.

3. What else might be impacted by the upcoming budget changes?

4. Is there anything else we should be considering?

5. Planning ahead for the next financial year.

As a conversation, participants are invited to take part in the discussion and are encouraged to share ideas for meeting the challenges ahead.

Facilitator: Maura Moore

Book your free place at https://PBNewFinancialYear180225.eventbrite.co.uk

Playful Minds Information session
2025-03-05 10:30 - 11:00
March 5 @ 3:30 pm – 4:00pm

Join our online information session on 5 March at 10:30am or 3:30pm to learn about Playful Minds – our exciting new programme.

The Playful Minds programme aims to build emotional intelligence and promote positive mental health through providing exciting play opportunities for 4 to 9 year olds across various settings within the Belfast City Council area:

Primary schools

School-aged childcare settings

Community groups

Our information session will provide you with more details about our FREE programme which includes children’s play sessions, practitioner training, and parental engagement and most importantly, how to secure your setting’s booking.

If you work with children aged 4 to 9 in a primary school, school-age childcare setting or community group register now! Email: playfulminds@playboard.co.uk

Find out more about Playful Minds.

Playful Minds is supported by the National Lottery Community Fund.

Employers for Childcare webinar
2025-03-12 10:00 - 11:30
March 12 @7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Information session on financial support available to working parents accessing childcare.

Chris Briggs, Senior Family Benefits Advisor with Employers for Childcare will be delivering an information session to School-Age Childcare providers and parents which will give an overview of the financial support available for parents towards the cost of registered School-Age Childcare.

The session is suitable for School-Age Childcare managers, deputy managers, staff and parents.

Register for 10am session: https://EFCCMarch25am.eventbrite.co.uk

Register for 7pm session: https://EFCCMarch25.eventbrite.co.uk

Information session - OUR Generation, Spaces to Be
2025-04-29 11:30 - 12:15
Are you working with children aged 9 – 11 years over the summer months?

Would you like to take part in our FREE cross-community programme as part of your summer scheme?

PlayBoard’s Spaces to Be Programme champions the child’s right to play as a means of promoting positive mental health, building resilience, and positively addressing difference.

Join our information session to find out how this programme could be incorporated into your summer scheme.*

Join the session by clicking here.

If you are interested, but unable to attend, please contact Roberta Johnson via email: Roberta.Johnson@playboard.co.uk

Find out more about OUR Generation – Spaces to Be.

OUR Generation is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

*Selection criteria applies

Enhancing practice through sensory spaces and play
2025-06-23 09:30 - 15:00
In partnership with Co-operation Ireland, we’re hosting a FREE full day training for professionals and volunteers working with children and young people. The session will look at practical strategies to support diverse needs and nurture well-being through sensory and playful approaches.

Venue: Teach na nDaoine, Monaghan

Play in the Park
2025-07-30 10:00 - 2025-08-06 16:00
PlayBoard is joining Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council to deliver 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗬 𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗞 – child-led play sessions with loose parts, arts and crafts, den building, sensory play and more!

Children are free to explore, create, build, move, and make their own fun in a safe, welcoming space.

Tannaghmore Gardens – Wed 30 July, 10.00am – 12.00pm *fully booked

Edenvilla Park – Wed 30 July, 2.00pm – 4.00pm *fully booked

Solitude Park – Fri 1 August, 10.00am – 12.00pm *fully booked

Armagh Palace on Playday – Wed 6 August | 10.00am – 12.00pm – Playday! *fully booked

Loughgall Country Park on Playday – Wed 6 August | 2.00pm – 4.00pm – Playday! *fully booked

The sessions are open to primary school age children and registration is essential. We’re looking forward to seeing you there!

Information Session on Financial Support Available to Parents
2025-08-12 10:00 - 11:30
and 7:00pm – 8:30pm

Information session on financial support available to working parents including the NICSS extension to school age children.

* Please note – this event has been rescheduled from 14 to 12 August *

Working parents with a household income of up to £200,000 could be entitled to financial help with childcare costs – and many don’t even know it!

Join us for an Information Session with Chris Briggs, Senior Family Benefits Advisor, Employers For Childcare.

Find out about support available through:

Universal Credit

Tax Credits

Childcare Vouchers

Tax-Free Childcare

Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS).

What you’ll learn:

The recent extension of NICSS into school-age childcare

Who’s eligible and how to register

What providers need to know

How to make sure you’re getting the best support for your family.

This session is suitable for registered childcare owners, managers, deputy managers, committee members and parents.

Branching Out: Outdoor Play Unleashed
2025-08-15 10:00 - 13:00
Venue: Wee Chicks Childcare, 111-113 Limestone Road, Belfast BT15 3AB

A fun, hands-on training session exploring creative and inspiring outdoor play ideas.

A dynamic and practical session that delves into the vital role of outdoor play in children’s development. Explore the wide-reaching benefits of quality outdoor experiences and gain fresh ideas for bringing more outdoor play into your setting. With a blend of expert insight, hands-on tools, meaningful discussion, and a chance to get outside and play, you’ll leave feeling inspired to enrich your provision through the power of outdoor play.

Facilitators: Meryl Boyd (PlayBoard) and Shelly McGee.

This FREE session is suitable for school-age childcare practitioners, deputy managers, and managers.

Please note: Places are limited to five people per setting. Refreshments will be provided.

If you have any enquiries, please email meryl.boyd@playboard.co.uk

School-Age Childcare: The Journey - The Future
2025-09-26 09:00 - 13:30
SAVE THE DATE

Celebrating YOU – The Workforce

We’re inviting school-age practitioners, managers, and setting owners to a special morning of celebration and inspiration! Join us for a fun-filled event where we’ll be sharing practical ideas for your setting, with great opportunities to make new connections.

We’ll be covering a range of themes on the day including:

Play and supporting children’s mental health and well-being

Making inclusive practice playful

Outdoor play magic

Building connections with Further Education Colleges – meet potential employees!

Bring your team, celebrate your impact, and leave energised with new ideas!

Save the date – Friday 26 September 2025.

Book your place Here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1605994214929?aff=oddtdtcreator

Childcare Subsidies Explained: Don't miss out!
2026-01-27 10:00 - 11:30
Tuesday 27 January 2026 at 10:00am – 11:30am or 7:00pm – 8:30pm.

Join us to find out about financial support available for many working families earning up to £200k.

Many working parents with household incomes of up to £200,000 may be entitled to financial help with childcare costs – and don’t realise it.

Join 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.

The 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).

We will cover:

How to make sure you’re getting the best support for your family

The benefits of registering with TFC/NICSS

Discussions on the lived experience of TFC/NICSS from a parent and provider perspective

Worked scenarios that provide an illustration of real term savings.

This session is suitable for:

Committee members.

Parents

HSCT Registered Childcare owners

Childcare managers and deputies

Childcare staff

Consultation Workshop on Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy
2026-02-17 09:30 - 12:00
Ballymena – Leighinmohr House Hotel, Leighinmohr Avenue, Ballymena BT42 2AN

School-age childcare matters!

Register now!

Are 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.

The 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.

This consultation is a critical opportunity to influence decisions that will shape childcare policy, funding and support for the immediate and long-term future.

School-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.

This 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.

PlayBoard is hosting a series of consultation workshops, dedicated specifically to school-age childcare provision. These sessions will:

Break down what the draft strategy really means for the SAC sector

Highlight gaps, risks and opportunities for school-age provision

Create space to collectively explore practical, realistic outcomes aligned with the proposed policy direction

Support participants to develop informed, confident responses to the consultation

Help key stakeholders better understand the priorities and lived realities of the SAC sector.

We 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.

We 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.

Registration opens at 9:30am with tea and coffee, with the consultation running until 12 noon.

Due to expected high demand and limited places, we would respectfully ask that you let us know if you are no longer able to attend.

If you require further information, please contact katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk

View other workshop dates

Consultation Workshop on Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy
2026-02-18 09:30 - 12:00
Ballynahinch – Ballynahinch Community Centre, 55 Windmill Street, Ballynahinch BT24 8HB

School-age childcare matters!

Register now!

Are 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.

The 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.

This consultation is a critical opportunity to influence decisions that will shape childcare policy, funding and support for the immediate and long-term future.

School-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.

This 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.

PlayBoard is hosting a series of consultation workshops, dedicated specifically to school-age childcare provision. These sessions will:

Break down what the draft strategy really means for the SAC sector

Highlight gaps, risks and opportunities for school-age provision

Create space to collectively explore practical, realistic outcomes aligned with the proposed policy direction

Support participants to develop informed, confident responses to the consultation

Help key stakeholders better understand the priorities and lived realities of the SAC sector.

We 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.

We 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.

Registration opens at 9:30am with tea and coffee, with the consultation running until 12 noon.

Due to expected high demand and limited places, we would respectfully ask that you let us know if you are no longer able to attend.

If you require further information, please contact katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk

View other workshop dates

Consultation Workshop on Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy
2026-02-24 09:30 - 12:00
Omagh – Omagh Enterprise Center, Great Northern Road, Omagh BT78 5LU

School-age childcare matters!

Register now!

Are 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.

The 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.

This consultation is a critical opportunity to influence decisions that will shape childcare policy, funding and support for the immediate and long-term future.

School-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.

This 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.

PlayBoard is hosting a series of consultation workshops, dedicated specifically to school-age childcare provision. These sessions will:

Break down what the draft strategy really means for the SAC sector

Highlight gaps, risks and opportunities for school-age provision

Create space to collectively explore practical, realistic outcomes aligned with the proposed policy direction

Support participants to develop informed, confident responses to the consultation

Help key stakeholders better understand the priorities and lived realities of the SAC sector.

We 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.

We 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.

Registration opens at 9:30am with tea and coffee, with the consultation running until 12 noon.

Due to expected high demand and limited places, we would respectfully ask that you let us know if you are no longer able to attend.

If you require further information, please contact katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk

View other workshop dates

Consultation Workshop on Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy
2026-02-25 09:30 - 12:00
Belfast – Girdwood Community Hub, 10 Girdwood Avenue, Belfast BT14 6EG

School-age childcare matters!

Register now!

Are 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.

The 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.

This consultation is a critical opportunity to influence decisions that will shape childcare policy, funding and support for the immediate and long-term future.

School-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.

This 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.

PlayBoard is hosting a series of consultation workshops, dedicated specifically to school-age childcare provision. These sessions will:

Break down what the draft strategy really means for the SAC sector

Highlight gaps, risks and opportunities for school-age provision

Create space to collectively explore practical, realistic outcomes aligned with the proposed policy direction

Support participants to develop informed, confident responses to the consultation

Help key stakeholders better understand the priorities and lived realities of the SAC sector.

We 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.

We 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.

Registration opens at 9:30am with tea and coffee, with the consultation running until 12 noon.

Due to expected high demand and limited places, we would respectfully ask that you let us know if you are no longer able to attend.

If you require further information, please contact katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk

View other workshop dates

Consultation Workshop on Draft Early Learning & Childcare Strategy
2026-02-26 10:00 - 12:00
Online

School-age childcare matters!

Register now!

Are 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.

The 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.

This consultation is a critical opportunity to influence decisions that will shape childcare policy, funding and support for the immediate and long-term future.

School-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.

A representative from the Department of Education will be in attendance at this workshop.

This 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.

PlayBoard is hosting a series of consultation workshops, dedicated specifically to school-age childcare provision. These sessions will:

Break down what the draft strategy really means for the SAC sector

Highlight gaps, risks and opportunities for school-age provision

Create space to collectively explore practical, realistic outcomes aligned with the proposed policy direction

Support participants to develop informed, confident responses to the consultation

Help key stakeholders better understand the priorities and lived realities of the SAC sector.

We 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.

We 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.

Due to expected high demand and limited places, we would respectfully ask that you let us know if you are no longer able to attend.

If you require further information, please contact katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk

View other workshop dates

A Place for Play
2026-03-11 10:00 - 12:00
Various dates & locations.

Refresh your play space!

Join us on the date and location convenient to you. All sessions run from 10:00am – 12:00pm.

3 March – Drumellan Afterschools – 12 Drumellan Court, Craigavon BT65 5HT

4 March – Belfast YMCA – 56-58 Knightsbridge Park, Stranmillis, Belfast BT9 5EH

5 March – Lisbane Afterschool Club – 16-18 Lisbarnet Road, Comber, Lisbane, Newtownards BT23 6AW

10 March – Kids Inn Afterschool Club – The Vale Centre, Clooney Road, Greysteel BT47 3GE

11 March – St John’s PS Afterschool Club – 30 Moneysharvan Road, Swatragh, Maghera BT46 5PY

Step 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.

Take 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.

This session is suitable for school-age childcare staff.

Please contact meryl.boyd@playboard.co.uk if you require any further information.

Planning for Play
2026-03-19 10:00 - 12:00
*FULLY BOOKED*

Re-energise play in your afterschool setting!

Step 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.

You’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.

Come together with fellow practitioners, spark new ideas and rediscover the power of play.

Let’s work together to get children playing more – and playing better!

This online session is suitable for school-aged childcare staff.

Please contact meryl.boyd@playboard.co.uk if you require any further information.

School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (Mid Ulster)
2026-04-29 11:30 - 13:00
Krafty Kidz Coalisland – Parochial Centre (Youth Club), 12 Stewartstown Road, Coalisland, Co Tyrone BT71 4PF

Have your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare.

School-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents

As 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.

PlayBoard 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.

Why This Matters

School-Age Childcare plays a vital role in:

Supporting children’s development and well-being

Enabling parental employment

Sustaining local communities

Yet, 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.

The decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade.

What This Session Offers

A short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context

Direct engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs

Informal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights

Opportunity to explore challenges, solutions and future direction

For Providers

This is your opportunity to:

Share your experience of delivering SAC

Highlight the challenges facing your setting

Raise the profile of SAC within your constituency

Influence policy and decision-making

For MLAs

This is your opportunity to:

Hear directly from providers in your constituency

Understand the pressures facing the sector

Explore the impact on local families

Inform your role in shaping future childcare policy

Your Voice Matters

Without 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.

View more dates

School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (South Antrim)
2026-04-30 10:30 - 12:00
Antrim Enterprise Agency, 58 Greystone Road, Antrim BT41 1JZ

Please note – this event has been postponed.

Have your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare.

School-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents

As 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.

PlayBoard 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.

Why This Matters

School-Age Childcare plays a vital role in:

Supporting children’s development and well-being

Enabling parental employment

Sustaining local communities

Yet, 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.

The decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade.

What This Session Offers

A short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context

Direct engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs

Informal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights

Opportunity to explore challenges, solutions and future direction

For Providers

This is your opportunity to:

Share your experience of delivering SAC

Highlight the challenges facing your setting

Raise the profile of SAC within your constituency

Influence policy and decision-making

For MLAs

This is your opportunity to:

Hear directly from providers in your constituency

Understand the pressures facing the sector

Explore the impact on local families

Inform your role in shaping future childcare policy

Your Voice Matters

Without 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.

View all dates

School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (Belfast)
2026-05-05 10:30 - 12:00
Girdwood Community Hub, 10 Girdwood Avenue, Belfast BT14 6EG

Please note – this event has been postponed.

Have your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare.

School-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents

As 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.

PlayBoard 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.

Why This Matters

School-Age Childcare plays a vital role in:

Supporting children’s development and well-being

Enabling parental employment

Sustaining local communities

Yet, 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.

The decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade.

What This Session Offers

A short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context

Direct engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs

Informal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights

Opportunity to explore challenges, solutions and future direction

For Providers

This is your opportunity to:

Share your experience of delivering SAC

Highlight the challenges facing your setting

Raise the profile of SAC within your constituency

Influence policy and decision-making

For MLAs

This is your opportunity to:

Hear directly from providers in your constituency

Understand the pressures facing the sector

Explore the impact on local families

Inform your role in shaping future childcare policy

Your Voice Matters

Without 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.

View all dates

School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (Foyle)
2026-05-07 10:30 - 12:00
Drumahoe Childcare (Londonderry YMCA), 51 Glenshane Road, Drumahoe, Derry/Londonderry BT47 3SF

Please note – this event has been cancelled.

Have your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare.

School-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents

As 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.

PlayBoard 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.

Why This Matters

School-Age Childcare plays a vital role in:

Supporting children’s development and well-being

Enabling parental employment

Sustaining local communities

Yet, 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.

The decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade.

What This Session Offers

A short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context

Direct engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs

Informal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights

Opportunity to explore challenges, solutions and future direction

For Providers

This is your opportunity to:

Share your experience of delivering SAC

Highlight the challenges facing your setting

Raise the profile of SAC within your constituency

Influence policy and decision-making

For MLAs

This is your opportunity to:

Hear directly from providers in your constituency

Understand the pressures facing the sector

Explore the impact on local families

Inform your role in shaping future childcare policy

Your Voice Matters

Without 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.

View all dates

School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (Mid Ulster)
2026-05-15 10:30 - 12:00
Magherafelt Women’s Group, 27-29 Moneymore Road, Magherafelt BT45 6AG

Have your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare.

Please note – this event has been cancelled.

School-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents

As 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.

PlayBoard 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.

Why This Matters

School-Age Childcare plays a vital role in:

Supporting children’s development and well-being

Enabling parental employment

Sustaining local communities

Yet, 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.

The decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade.

What This Session Offers

A short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context

Direct engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs

Informal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights

Opportunity to explore challenges, solutions and future direction

For Providers

This is your opportunity to:

Share your experience of delivering SAC

Highlight the challenges facing your setting

Raise the profile of SAC within your constituency

Influence policy and decision-making

For MLAs

This is your opportunity to:

Hear directly from providers in your constituency

Understand the pressures facing the sector

Explore the impact on local families

Inform your role in shaping future childcare policy

Your Voice Matters

Without 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.

View all dates

For enquiries, please email katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk

School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement
2026-05-21 10:30 - 12:00
Clandeboye Nature Rangers (Clandeboye Estate), 491a Belfast Road, Bangor BT19 1RL

Have your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare.

Please note – this event has been cancelled.

School-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents

As 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.

PlayBoard 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.

Why This Matters

School-Age Childcare plays a vital role in:

Supporting children’s development and well-being

Enabling parental employment

Sustaining local communities

Yet, 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.

The decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade.

What This Session Offers

A short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context

Direct engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs

Informal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights

Opportunity to explore challenges, solutions and future direction

For Providers

This is your opportunity to:

Share your experience of delivering SAC

Highlight the challenges facing your setting

Raise the profile of SAC within your constituency

Influence policy and decision-making

For MLAs

This is your opportunity to:

Hear directly from providers in your constituency

Understand the pressures facing the sector

Explore the impact on local families

Inform your role in shaping future childcare policy

Your Voice Matters

Without 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.

View all dates

School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (Ballymena)
2026-05-22 10:30 - 12:00
Rankin Room, Midtown Makers Gift Shop, Visitor Information & Business Hub, 51 – 53 Church Street, Ballymena, BT43 6DD

Please note – this event has been cancelled.

Have your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare.

School-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents

As 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.

PlayBoard 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.

Why This Matters

School-Age Childcare plays a vital role in:

Supporting children’s development and well-being

Enabling parental employment

Sustaining local communities

Yet, 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.

The decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade.

What This Session Offers

A short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context

Direct engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs

Informal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights

Opportunity to explore challenges, solutions and future direction

For Providers

This is your opportunity to:

Share your experience of delivering SAC

Highlight the challenges facing your setting

Raise the profile of SAC within your constituency

Influence policy and decision-making

For MLAs

This is your opportunity to:

Hear directly from providers in your constituency

Understand the pressures facing the sector

Explore the impact on local families

Inform your role in shaping future childcare policy

Your Voice Matters

Without 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.

For enquiries, please email katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk

View all dates

School-Age Childcare Matters: MLA Engagement (Belfast)
2026-05-28 10:30 - 12:00
Girdwood Community Hub, 10 Girdwood Avenue, Belfast BT14 6EG

Have your voice heard. Inform the decisions that will shape the future of School-Age Childcare.

School-Age Childcare Matters: Meet Your MLA / Meet Your Constituents

As 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.

PlayBoard 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.

Why This Matters

School-Age Childcare plays a vital role in:

Supporting children’s development and well-being

Enabling parental employment

Sustaining local communities

Yet, 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.

The decisions made now will shape the sector for the next decade.

What This Session Offers

A short overview from PlayBoard on the current policy context

Direct engagement between SAC providers and local MLAs

Informal roundtable discussions to share experiences and insights

Opportunity to explore challenges, solutions and future direction

For Providers

This is your opportunity to:

Share your experience of delivering SAC

Highlight the challenges facing your setting

Raise the profile of SAC within your constituency

Influence policy and decision-making

For MLAs

This is your opportunity to:

Hear directly from providers in your constituency

Understand the pressures facing the sector

Explore the impact on local families

Inform your role in shaping future childcare policy

Your Voice Matters

Without 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.

View all dates

For enquiries, please email katherine.lindsay@playboard.co.uk
