Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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306. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs his plans to expand apprenticeships to childcare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39391/20]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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As the Deputy is aware, there is a Programme for Government commitment to pilot a new apprenticeship model for early years professionals. Apprenticeship models have previously been proposed for the early learning and care sector. The development of an apprenticeship relies on the formulation of proposals by employers and education institutions, and approval by the Apprenticeship Council. The consideration and potential introduction of a new apprenticeship model for early years professionals is therefore not solely a policy matter for my Department.

Officials in my Department are, however, in the process of developing a new Workforce Development Plan, in collaboration with the Department of Education. The Workforce Development Plan, which will be completed in 2021, will set out plans to raise the profile of careers in the sector and establish role profiles, career pathways, qualification requirements, and associated policy mechanisms, along with leadership development opportunities, and will work towards a more gender-balanced and diverse workforce. The potential role of an apprenticeship model for early years professionals is being considered as part of ongoing work on the Workforce Development Plan.