Learning through Play in a Play-Based Curriculum
The core of the Play Based Curriculum is play, based on the theory that play is the most natural and effective learning mechanism of the child. Children use play as both a means for figuring out how the world works and how to be effective and masterful within it. Children are active participants in play, and actively make choices, come up with ideas, connect with their peers, develop stories and get things done. Play is the domain where children can be creative, competent and in control.
Play is not the only way that children learn and consequently the play-based curriculum includes many other activities and approaches to teaching and learning. Within the play based curriculum children also learn through observing, discussing, making things, exploring, reflecting and experimenting without entering the play world. Play is the leading source of the young child's development.
The Play Based curriculum is structured and involves a combination of free play and activities both adult and child-led that are based on the emerging interests of the children. This structure creates a safe, inclusive and stimulating "community of learners" for children and their families.
The UN Charter of Childrens Rights 1989 states that every child in the world should have the right to play. At Ballapousta preschool we ensure that this right is met, every day!
Ballapousta preschool is part of the ECCE scheme, providing free childcare for one year to children aged between 3 years 3 months and 4 years 6 months on the 1st September each year.
We also cater for children who are not eligible for scheme who may wish to come on a part time basis prior to availing of full time place.
Our preschool runs from 9.30am to 12.30pm Monday - Friday and the cost can be entirely covered by the ECCE scheme for eligible children. We have no hidden costs or extra charges.
Our preschool caters for both Ballapousta and Ardee communities. To reserve a place for your child, please contact us
In order to promote our Eco-Friendly environment we registered our preschool for the green flag. We set up a committee made up of children, staff and parents and hold meetings to plan what we can do to improve our environment. We are currently working on the reduce waste and litter theme. Part of this saw us work with the Tidy Towns committee and we helped to clean up the local car park along with children from Ballapousta national school. We are promoting the environment and giving our children a sense of belonging to the wider community.
We are one of the only preschools in the country with our own pet Donkey!
Jack is approx 10 years old and is cared for by the entire Ballapousta community, and most of all by the children of the Old Schoolhouse preschool!The children learn about the responsibility of caring for animals, how to treat them and about respecting nature. Caring for Jack helps them live in an eco-friendly world. Sometimes, Jack can even be heard to sing!
