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
Sustainable Education In The Early Years
Sustainable Education in the Early Years In this edition of the LINC Blog, Siobhán Browne, LINC+ CPD Programme Participant and Manager at Jigsaw Day Nursery, discusses how she incorporates sustainable education into daily practices at her setting. She explains how...
The Importance of Playful Experiences in the Early Years
The Importance of Playful Experiences in the Early Years In this edition of the LINC Blog, Fiona Kirkland, Play Pedagogy Officer at Play Scotland, emphasises the transformative impact of play on early childhood development. Drawing from her extensive...
Children Should be Seen and Heard: The Importance of Child Voice and Participation
Children Should be Seen and Heard : The Importance of Child Voice and Participation In this edition of the LINC Blog, Dr. Linda Kelly explores the critical importance of child voice and participation in early childhood settings. Highlighting key insights from...
Navigating the Early Years: A Symphony of Smooth Transitions
Navigating the Early Years: A Symphony of Smooth Transitions In this edition of the LINC Blog, LINC Graduate Shannon Lewis discusses the the many transitions that children encounter in the early years setting, and how we should "Envision this adventure as a...
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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