Education Minister Paul Givan has published the outcome of a public consultation on a new Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, revealing substantial support for measures designed to lower costs and widen access to pre-school education.

The consultation drew 469 responses through an online survey and written submissions, alongside a series of public engagement events. Agreement levels for the strategy's core objectives ranged from 77% to 86%, the Department of Education said.

Among the strongest backing was for plans to standardise the pre-school education programme and increase the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme. Respondents also signalled approval for a sharpened focus on children facing disadvantage, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, and for steps to bolster the early years workforce.

Paul Givan said the feedback showed a clear desire for a system that is more affordable, more accessible and delivers better outcomes for children. He described the strategy as a chance to reshape how children and families are supported, pointing to the potential to help parents balance work and family life while giving every child the best start.

Some respondents, while broadly positive, pressed for a faster rollout and asked for more detail on how the strategy would be put into practice. Givan acknowledged those calls and said the scale and pace of implementation would depend on the resources available and the capacity of the sector to deliver.

The draft strategy was published on 17 December 2025 and the 14-week consultation period closed on 24 March 2026. The Minister said he would continue to press for support and transformation across early learning and childcare in Northern Ireland.