Frenchpark and Districts Childcare Ltd (FDCL), originally formed in 1995 by a group of professional women, began as a mobile playgroup aiming to provide accessible and affordable local childcare. The group later registered as a not-for-profit company with charitable status. It derives income from childcare fees, training courses, and fundraising, accounting for around 20% of total income in 2014. FDCL is also supported by various state programmes including the National Childcare Investment Programme, The National Childcare Scheme, The Equal Start Funding, the Community Employment Childcare Training Programme, and the Community Service Programme.
From humble beginnings in a refurbished church hall, FDCL expanded rapidly, growing from a part-time service for 20 children in 1999 to a full-time service for approximately 140 children by 2005. It now operates from a purpose-built facility, offering wobbler, toddler, full day-care, and after-school services for all children in the local and wider community. Open year-round from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, FDCL employs a number of qualified and professional staff to care for the children that attend the service.
FDCL is recognized for its high standards and innovation, having received numerous awards including the NCNA Centre of Excellence (2011), Siolta Level 4 (2012), Healthy Ireland Smart Start (2015), and Investing in Children Membership (2017). In 2013, it took over the Community Employment Childcare Training Programme for County Roscommon, managing placements across various centres. The organisation’s success lies in strong governance, strategic planning, and commitment to best practices, including continuous staff training in childcare, safety, and education.
FDCL remains committed to delivering the highest standards of early childhood care and education by implementing both Aistear, the national curriculum framework, and Síolta, the national quality framework. These guide our daily practice and ensure a child-centered, play-based approach that nurtures each child’s well-being, identity, and development. We are an inclusive service that caters for all children, including those with additional needs, and we provide AIM (Access and Inclusion Model) supports to ensure every child has equal opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive and respectful environment. Through our dedicated team, strong governance, and commitment to best practice, FDCL continues to be a leader in quality, accessible, and inclusive childcare in County Roscommon.
