The Tusla Early Years Inspectorate developed a Quality and Regulatory Framework (QRF), to support registered Early Years Services to comply with the 2016 Regulations. The QRF does this by setting out the core regulatory requirements in a transparent way, bringing together evidence-based, national and international research and best practice in Early Years.

The QRF aims to support registered providers in achieving compliance with the regulations and enhance the safety and care of children who attend these services. The QRF is child-centred, with a specific focus on the quality and safety of the care provided directly to children using the services.

The QRF is currently being updated. There is one document available at present to view and it is for full and part-time pre-school services. To view this document please click on link below:

https://clarechildcare.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/EYI-GDE12.7_TUSLA_QRF_FDC_and_PT_.pdf

To complete the E-learning programme, click on link below:

https://www.tusla.ie/services/preschool-services/early-years-quality-and-regulatory-framework/quality-and-regulatory-framework-elearning-programme/

Please click on the link below for information on the Tusla Early Years Inspections:

https://www.tusla.ie/services/preschool-services/early-years-providers/early-years-inspections-2/

Please click on the link below for a guide on the Department of Education Inspections:

https://assets.gov.ie/static/documents/a-guide-to-early-years-education-inspection-eyei-updated-january-2025.pdf

New Enforcement Powers – Tusla

Following recent amendments to the Child Care Act 1991, as amended (the Act), the Early Years Inspectorate has been given additional powers for enforcement, and where risk of harm to children is identified in an early years service.

The following powers were enacted on the 1st January 2026. The Inspectorate is planning on implementing these additional powers from the 30th March 2026 but reserves the right to use all lawful powers available to it where deemed necessary in the interests of the health, safety and welfare of children.

Please click here to go to the Tusla website for more information.

Please click here for the guide for more information.

Please click here to view the webinar for more information.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) has published a list of qualifications that meet the regulatory requirements for working in the Early Years sector in Ireland.

This list contains all qualifications which have been approved by DCEDIY.  It also sets out the appropriate level of DCEDIY approval (i.e. meets regulatory requirements; eligible for Room Leader – standard capitation; eligible for Room Leader – higher capitation).

Please click on the pink button below to access this list.