On the 15th October, Limerick Childcare Committee (LCC) hosted an awards night to mark the conclusion on the Aistear in Practice Programme which ran from April to July 2015.  In total 25 Early Years Services in Limerick City and County participated in the programme, which comprised 5 workshops delivered by Marie Doherty with mentor visits by LCC Development Officers, Marie Therese, Rosie and Catriona.

The workshops, based on Aistear, Siolta and the Aistear Siolta Practice Guide examined the concepts of Reflective Practice, the meaning of Curriculum and the Principles underpinning Siolta and Aistear.  It also explored the Learning Environment, Nurturing and Extending Interactions and an Introduction to Planning and Documenting. The area of Planning and Documenting was further explored by Pamela of Canavan Byrne prior to the presentation of certificates.

Each workshop was followed by a mentor visit, during which LCC Development Officers supported the services and individual staff to reflect on and develop their practice.  Much of the changes made by the services were documented at the time on Limerick Childcare Committee’s Facebook page.

The certificates were presented by Chair of Limerick Childcare Committee, Joan Condon who acknowledged the commitment of staff in the 25 services who participated so fully in the programme.