Welcome to the LINC Programme website.
The LINC Consortium is proud to offer two inclusive education programmes;
the multi-award winning LINC Programme and the LINC+ CPD Programme for graduates of LINC.
Find out more below.
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
Download or Print the Role of the INclusion COordinator
View or Download Our 2023/2024 LINC Programme Brochure
2023/24 LINC Programme BrochureView or Download our LINC+ CPD Brochure
LINC+ CPD BrochureLatest News and Events

The Muddy Puddle
The Muddy Puddle In this edition of the LINC Blog, setting manager Ellen Moore describes how one muddy puddle out the back of her setting became a focal point of fun for the children of her preschool. In the hustle and bustle of the early years it is easy to...

Supporting Children’s Emotional Wellbeing
Supporting Children's Emotional Wellbeing In this edition of the LINC Blog, Caroline O’Riordan explores how the key to unlocking a child's full potential lies in nurturing their emotional well-being and as an Early Years Specialist (EYS) with Better Start,...

Learning Through Real-Life Experience in Outdoor Pre-school
Learning Through Real-Life Experience in Outdoor Pre-school In this edition of the LINC Blog, LINC Graduate, Racheal Mackessey unveils the transformative journey of learning through real-life experiences in an Outdoor Preschool. Racheal vividly describes how...

Minister Commends 550 Newly-Conferred Inclusion Coordinators for Their Leadership in Fostering Inclusive Practice Within Early Learning & Care Sector at LINC Graduation 2023
Minister Commends 550 Newly-Conferred Inclusion Coordinators for Their Leadership in Fostering Inclusive Practice Within Early Learning & Care Sector at LINC Graduation 2023Photo: Laura Lee Curtin and Lisa McGrath pictured as they graduated from the LINC...
Awards and Accolades

Meet the Team

LINC 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 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.
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- Updates on progression routes and CPD courses.
- Useful tips on best practices within early years’ settings.
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- Stories about LINC graduates working within the field.
- Early Years Sector news and policy updates.
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