Erika’s Fairy Wood

Erika’s Fairy Wood is a long‑established early years centre in Gorey, Co. Wexford, operating since 2007 under a Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) contract to deliver ECCE services. The centre provides a safe, caring and friendly environment for preschool children, combining a structured daily curriculum with the Montessori teaching method and informal indoor and outdoor play. The programme follows the national Aistear framework, supporting each child’s physical, emotional, cognitive and social development at their own pace. The facility comprises three purpose‑built classrooms, Sunflower’s, Buttercup’s and Snowdrop’s, each named after a fairy and capable of accommodating up to 22 children. Classes run in the morning with optional extended care until 1:30 pm, offering flexibility for families. All staff are Garda‑vetted, hold FETAC Level 5‑8 qualifications, and receive ongoing training through the Wexford County Childcare Committee and Early Childhood Ireland. The centre meets current fire, disability access and insurance standards and is inspected annually by TUSLA, POBAL and the Department of Education and Skills. Since 2023 the service operates on a part‑time model, requiring a minimum of four hours per day, which includes the three‑hour free ECCE entitlement. This arrangement allows the centre to maintain high‑quality provision while offering a modest additional fee for extra hours, with plans to reduce the charge in September 2024. Parental input is welcomed and regular progress updates are provided.