Nurturing Skills Learner Fund
Nurturing Skills Learner Fund 2026
The Nurturing Skills Learner Fund supports early years educators in Ireland to complete a Level 7 or Level 8 degree while continuing to work in the sector. The fund is designed to help remove financial barriers and support career progression across Early Learning and Care in Ireland.
At City College Dublin, learners can apply to study our BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care, a degree designed for those who want to deepen their knowledge, strengthen their practice, and progress professionally in the Early Learning and Care sector.
The application process for the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund 2026/27is now closed.
Please note: The NSLF Semester 2 Returns portal will be open from 6 July 2026 at 9:00am until 17 July 2026 at 5:00pm.
The Nurturing Skills Learner Fund (NSLF) is a funding initiative that supports eligible educators working in Tusla-registered Early Learning and Care (ELC) or School-Age Childcare (SAC) settings to undertake an approved degree qualification. The fund is intended to support the development of a graduate-led workforce in the sector and to make degree-level study more accessible for those already working with children.
For the current scheme, the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund covers up to 90% of course fees for eligible applicants. According to the Department announcement, learners can complete their studies over a four-year period while continuing in their regular work in the early learning and care sector.
The Nurturing Skills Learner Fund is aimed at eligible applicants who are:
- working with children in a Tusla-registered Early Learning and Care or School-Age Childcare service
- working in a service with a current Core Funding contract
- employed in the sector for the required period before applying
- applying to study an approved Level 7 or Level 8 Early Learning and Care degree for the first time
Applicants must also meet the relevant programme entry requirements for the degree they wish to study.
Under the current Nurturing Skills Learner Fund scheme, eligible learners can receive funding covering up to 90% of course fees. Official information states that:
- 80% of eligible course fees are paid directly to the education provider, subject to the annual cap
- the remaining 10% contribution may be paid back to the learner after successful completion of the academic year and subject to the scheme conditions
This makes the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund a valuable support for early years professionals who want to upskill without taking a full break from work.
City College Dublin offers a BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care for learners who want to develop professional knowledge and practical skills in early childhood education. The programme includes:
- a Level 8 BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education and Care
- strong emphasis on practice placement
- study options designed to support learners at different stages of their professional journey
This degree is suited to learners who want to build a long-term career in Early Learning and Care and gain a recognised qualification that supports progression in the sector.
The Nurturing Skills Learner Fund can help you:
- reduce the cost of studying for an Early Childhood Education and Care degree
- continue working in the sector while progressing your qualification
- strengthen your knowledge, confidence and career opportunities
- move towards a recognised Level 7 or Level 8 qualification in Early Learning and Care
For many learners, the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund provides a practical route to degree-level study while staying connected to their work in Early Years.
If you are currently receiving funding through the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund (NSLF) and studying at City College Dublin, please note the Semester 2 Student Return dates below:
- Opens: Monday, 6th July 2026 at 9:00 AM
- Closes: Friday, 17th July 2026 at 5:00 PM
Please ensure your Semester 2 Student Return is completed and submitted before the closing date to avoid any impact on your funding.
If you have any questions or require assistance with your return, please contact the City College Dublin team, and we’ll be happy to help.
Nurturing Skills Learner Funds at CCD in 2026
How do I apply?
If you are interested in applying for the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund and studying at City College Dublin, the usual process is:
- Enquire with us at City College Dublin about the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care and check that the programme is suitable for you.
- New applicants should email Pobal, at NSLF@pobal.ie to request a link to the NSLF Student Portal in order to create an account and upload employment details and complete the new application process. Applicants who previously applied for NSLF and were unsuccessful, should make a new application for the academic year 2026/2027 through the NSLF Student Portal. Applicants should ensure that all elements of the application are filled out and required documents provided prior to completing the application process.
- Re-engage with City College Dublin so our team can guide you on the course and next steps.
The application process for the Nurturing Skills Learner Fund (NSLF) for the 2026/2027 academic year is now closed. Find out more on the official Nurturing Skills website.
