Learner Fund Bursary 2025 – Applications Opening 15/09/2025!
Applications will open for the Learner Fund Graduate and Childminder Bursary 2025 on Monday 15th September! Both schemes aim to support Early Learning & Care graduates and registered childminders who have recently completed their studies.
Graduate Bursary
Graduates who completed a QAB-approved Level 7 or 8 ELC qualification in 2024 or 2025 can apply. Applicants must be working in a Tusla-registered Early Learning & Care service. The bursary is worth €1,000, with proof of qualification, final year fee statement, and photo ID required.
Childminder Bursary
Tusla-registered childminders who completed a qualification in 2024 or 2025 may also apply. Eligible qualifications include NFQ-recognised Level 5 or 6 awards, or Level 7 or 8 QAB-approved ELC courses. A bursary of €1,000 is available under the same conditions as the Graduate Bursary.
Important to Note:
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Applicants cannot have received the bursary before.
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No other public funding can have been used to complete the qualification.
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Funding is limited – priority will go to services with no graduates, those in disadvantaged areas, and core-funded services.
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Closing date: 17th October 2025.
- Application Forms and Rules for both Graduates and Childminders Available in the links below.
In the event of oversubscription DCDE will apply the above selection criteria.
Timeline for applications:
Applications will open on Monday 15th September and close at 5pm on Friday 17th October 2025: please email completed applications to sligochildcare@gmail.com or by post to
Unit 5 Neighbourhood Centre,
Rusheen Ard,
Caltragh,
Sligo
F91 YY04