About Us

The Early Learning Initiative (ELI) in the National College of Ireland (NCI) is funded through the generosity of a consortium of successful Irish business people. This group felt a passionate need to encourage the educational participation of those groups who had fallen behind in our society.

In discussion with the National College of Ireland they identified the early years education and parental understanding of their child’s education, as the key to greater educational achievement and prosperity. Their goal was to improve the educational attainment in inner city communities adjacent to the National College of Ireland using best practice programmes.  

The ELI was established as a Community Based Educational Initiative aimed at addressing educational disadvantage through the provision from birth, of an integrated programme of activities, training and supports, for children, parents, families, and child care and education providers.

This is in line with the National College of Ireland’s mission to widen participation in higher education and unlock each student's potential. We offer our participants the opportunity to acquire the skills and self-confidence to change their lives, contribute to a knowledge based economy and become responsible, active citizens.  

As part of the School of Community Studies at National College of Ireland, we are committed to its goal of building up the problem-solving skills of communities and promoting the development of successful, high-achieving communities. 

We also work in partnership with St Patrick’s College, Drumcondra, who provide support for the continuous improvement and ongoing development of our programmes. 

Key Goal: Provide learning support programmes, which enable positive educational change in the local community  

Communities Involved: The four parishes that comprise the Lower Docklands North and South of the River Liffey as follows:

North of the River:

·                       St Laurence O’Tooles (Sheriff Street Parish)

·                       St Joseph’s (East Wall Parish)

South of the River:

·                       St Mary’s (City Quay Parish)

·                       St. Patrick’s (Ringsend Parish.)