Preschool

The HighScope Preschool Curriculum is rooted in decades of research and centres on active, hands-on learning. It encourages the development of vital life skills such as problem-solving, emotional resilience, social skills, and self-confidence. 

A consistent daily routine is a core part of the HighScope approach. This predictable structure helps children feel secure and engaged as they explore and learn in a safe, supportive environment. 

Each day, our staff and children collaborate to plan fun, creative activities – from games and crafts to group activities – making our service a happy, exciting place to grow, learn, and thrive. 

The Artline Project is a creative early year’s collaboration between our Children’s Project and the National Gallery of Ireland, launched in September 2023. The project offers monthly art workshops for the preschool children, led by artist-educator Mags Harnett, with special visits to the Gallery twice a year. The workshops encourage imagination, curiosity, and hands-on learning. 

These sensory-based sessions introduce children to a wide range of artistic techniques – from abstract painting and Pointillism to sculpture and clay-making – all inspired by and linked to artworks in the Gallery’s collection. The children engage with materials like charcoal, chalk, clay, fabric scarves, glowing cubes and so on.  

The focus is not on the final product, but on the joy of the creative journey. The workshops offer a space for children to play, explore, and connect with the arts in a way that feels natural, accessible, and fun. 

For many of the families involved, traditional access to art and cultural spaces may feel out of reach. Through Artline, children and parents alike are welcomed into a world of creativity and expression – both in our service and in the heart of the Gallery itself. 

The Children’s Project partners with a local nursing home to deliver an Intergenerational Learning Programme.  Each week, children visit the elderly residents to take part in thoughtfully planned shared activities. This unique experience allows both generations to build meaningful friendships, learn from one another, and enjoy quality time together. 

Intergenerational learning offers many benefits for everyone involved, including: 

• Improved health and well-being
• Reduced feelings of isolation 
• Increased confidence, self-worth, and sense of value 
• Opportunities to share and develop new skills 
• Stronger community connections 
• Promotion of active, healthy living 
• Greater civic engagement and participation