Welcome to the Leadership for Inclusion in the Early Years (LINC) Programme website
The Leadership for Inclusion in the Early Years (LINC) Consortium is proud to offer two inclusive education programmes: the multi-award winning LINC Programme, and the LINC+ CPD Programme for LINC graduates.
The LINC Consortium Offers Two Inclusive Education Programmes
For people working in the Early Years in Ireland. Become an INclusion COordinator (INCO) with the LINC Programme.
For graduates of the LINC Programme (INCOs). Continue to learn with the LINC+ CPD Programme.
The LINC Programme
Become an Inclusion CoOrdinator (INCO) with the LINC Programme
The Leadership for INClusion in the Early Years programme, LINC, is a Level 6 Special Purpose Award (Higher Education). The programme is designed to enhance the inclusion of all children in Early Learning and Care (ELC) settings through the development of the role of Inclusion CoOrdinator (INCO).
Eligibility & Exemptions for the LINC Programme
Settings with a pre-school room that is contracted for ECCE/TEC/CCSP can nominate an employee for LINC. Applicants must have the minimum qualifications to work in an Early Learning & Care Setting, in accordance with the DCEDIY’s Early Years Recognised Qualification Listing. Some students may be eligible for exemptions from two modules.
The Role of the INclusion COordinator (INCO)
Download or Print the Role of the INclusion COordinator
View or Download Our 2024/2025 LINC Programme Brochure
2024/25 LINC Programme BrochureView or Download our LINC+ CPD Brochure
LINC+ CPD BrochureLatest News and Events
Claire Butterly Appointed as New National Coordinator of the LINC Programme
Claire Butterly Appointed as New National Coordinator of the LINC Programme The Leadership for Inclusion in the Early Years (LINC) Programme is pleased to announce the appointment of Claire Butterly as its new National Coordinator. Claire commenced her role on Monday,...
The Power of Conversation
The Power of Conversation In this edition of the LINC Blog, Dr. Linda Kelly delves into the profound impact of adult-child conversations on early language and cognitive development. Discover why simple back-and-forth interactions are more than just small talk –...
LINC Programme to Celebrate International Children’s Day with Webinar on Children’s Rights and Inclusion
LINC Programme to Celebrate International Children’s Day with Webinar on Children’s Rights and Inclusion The LINC Programme is proud to celebrate International Children’s Day on Wednesday, November 20th, with a free webinar featuring guest speaker Bronagh Byrne,...
The Importance of Mentoring
The Importance of Mentoring In this edition of the LINC Blog, Phil O’Brien, Assistant LINC Tutor, explores the transformative role of mentoring in fostering students’ personal and professional growth. Phil shares her approach to mentoring, focusing on creating...
Awards and Accolades
Meet the Team
LINC Programme Consortium
LINC is being offered by a consortium, led by Mary Immaculate College, and including Early Childhood Ireland and Maynooth University – The Froebel Department of Primary and Early Childhood Education.
Meet the LINC Team
The LINC programme team is responsible for implementing LINC. It includes a National Director, Support Team, ICT Support, Educational Technologist and the Tutors that deliver the programme.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
By signing up to this newsletter you will receive information about:
- Updates on progression routes and CPD courses.
- Useful tips on best practices within early years’ settings.
- News about conference and events that LINC maybe involved with.
- Stories about LINC graduates working within the field.
- Early Years Sector news and policy updates.
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