Shaping the Future – How Pre-School education is transforming lives in Ireland

Discover the story of Ireland’s State Funded Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) ‘Pre-School’ programme featuring our very own Kilkenny service Fairy folk Montessori!

Featuring the experiences of early years educators, families and children across Ireland, it highlights how the programme is supporting children’s learning, development and well-being while helping to shape the future young lives of our nation.

A Million Children. Hundreds of Thousands of Families. Thousands of Early Years Educators. Working Together. Shaping the Future.

Since its introduction in 2010, the State funded Pre-School programme has given more than one million children the opportunity to benefit from high-quality pre-school education.

In Shaping the Future, viewers are taken inside pre-school settings across Ireland to see the positive impact these experiences have on children’s development, confidence, friendships and readiness for school.

Real Stories from Across Ireland

The documentary showcases real-life examples of inspiring practice in pre-school settings, highlighting:

  • The experiences of children participating in the State-funded Pre-School programme
  • The warm and nurturing relationships between children and their early years educators
  • The trusted partnerships between families and early years educators
  • Inclusive early learning experiences for all children, including children with disabilities
  • The dedication, professionalism and expertise of early years educators

Celebrating the People Behind Early Learning

At the heart of every child’s early learning journey are passionate, highly qualified educators who create nurturing, engaging and inclusive environments.

Shaping the Future celebrates the professionalism of the sector and presents early education as a rewarding and impactful career. Currently, 39% of early years educators working in pre-school services are qualified to degree level in Early Childhood Care and Education.

Where to Watch the Documentary

Shaping the Future

A celebration of early childhood, high quality pre-school and the people helping young children in Ireland get the best possible start in life.

  • Virgin Media Television
  • Saturday, 29 August 2026
  • 12:00 PM

Don’t miss this inspiring look at the impact of pre-school across Ireland.