Aistear is the early childhood curriculum framework for all children from birth to six years and, in addition to the primary school curriculum, is implemented in infant classes at the school. The word Aistear is the Irish word for journey and was chosen because early childhood marks the beginning of children’s lifelong learning journeys.

Aistear is the curriculum framework for children from birth to six years in Ireland. It provides information for adults to help them plan for and provide enjoyable and challenging learning experiences, so that all children can grow and develop as competent and confident learners within loving relationships with others.

Aistear describes the types of learning (dispositions, values and attitudes, skills, knowledge, and understanding) that are important for children in their early years, and offers ideas and suggestions as to how this learning might be nurtured. The Framework also provides guidelines on supporting children’s learning through partnerships with parents, interactions, play, and assessment.

In supporting children’s early learning and development Aistear:

•  identifies what and how children should learn, and describes the types of experiences that can support this

•  makes connections in children’s learning throughout the early childhood years and as they move from one setting to another

•  supports parents as their children’s primary educators during early childhood, and promotes effective partnerships between parents and practitioners

•  complements and extends existing curriculums and materials

•  informs practice across a range of settings, disciplines and professions, and encourages interdisciplinary work.

Below are some photographs of Aistear in practice in Junior Infants.