Over €20,000 awarded to Waterford-based artist for early learning project

A Waterford-based artist has received €21,600 for an early learning arts project.

The Arts Council announced the award to Waterford-based artist George Higgs under the Arts in Early Learning and Childcare scheme, in partnership with the Department of Children, Disability and Equality.

The quarter-of-a-million euro scheme provides opportunities for babies and young children to explore and enjoy the arts with the support of artists, early years educators, school-age practitioners, families and carers.

This will mark the fourth iteration of the scheme, which began with a pilot programme in 2023.

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, said she was delighted to announce the successful applicants.

“Through this scheme, we are strengthening the connections between the arts and early learning and childcare sectors, while supporting babies, toddlers and young children to benefit from rich and inclusive creative opportunities.

“This is a key example of how policy and practice can come together to enhance children’s early experiences. I congratulate all of the successful recipients and thank the Arts Council and all partners involved for their continued work in delivering this important initiative,” said Minister Foley.

Individual awards of up to €40,000 have been made available to nine artists and arts organisations.

Projects support a range of innovative and high-quality projects to be delivered in early-learning and childcare settings across the country over the coming year.

Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan congratulated those moving forward under the scheme.

“I would like to congratulate the successful applicants of the 2026 Arts in Early Learning and Childcare Scheme. I also offer my thanks to Minister Norma Foley and her department for their partnership on this project. The arts are an important part of everyday life, and cross-departmental collaboration is vital in securing access for those of all ages,” said Minister O’Donovan.

Arts Council Chair Maura McGrath commented: “Since its inception in 2023, the Arts in Early Learning and Childcare Scheme has delivered exceptional arts engagement projects to babies and young children across Ireland in a wide range of settings. Its success demonstrates the importance of access to art for everyone, including the youngest in our society.”