As Balbriggan steps confidently into a new year, one local organisation is celebrating fresh beginnings, new skills, and international collaboration. Really Cool Afterschool & Montessori School, which operates three childcare facilities in Balbriggan, employs 40 staff members and provides care for 200 children from 27 nationalities every year, continues to shine on the European stage thanks to its recently awarded Erasmus+ grant enabling staff training abroad.

The project, funded under the Erasmus+ Programme and supported by Ireland’s National Agency, Léargas, is titled “One Planet, Many Cultures: Eco-Learning in a Diverse Crèche”. Its focus is on strengthening staff expertise in eco-education, inclusion, and innovative early-years approaches—core values in the organisation’s work with Balbriggan’s multicultural community.

Although the project officially runs from July 2025 to June 2026, the team has already made impressive progress. Six teachers have completed mobility trainings in Portugal and Romania, returning home energised with new teaching strategies and perspectives on early-years education. Their learning is already being embedded into daily practice across all three centres, enhancing experiences for children aged 1 to 12.

The journey continues in 2026 with even more energy. At least six additional educators are preparing to travel to different corners of Europe in the coming months. The next destination is Spain, where a group of teachers will participate in Erasmus training on using Art to promote inclusion —an inspiring way to begin the year.

Co-Owner Marzena Stronska expressed pride in their team’s commitment:
“Our staff are passionate about giving every child the best start in life. Through Erasmus+, we learn from excellent educators across Europe and bring that knowledge straight back to Balbriggan. Our families benefit, our staff grow, and our community becomes stronger.”

As the new year unfolds, the organisation is focused on innovation, professional growth, and continuing to build bridges across Europe. January, for Really Cool Afterschool team, is time for fresh goals, new partnerships, and renewed dedication to high-quality, inclusive childcare.

Wishing all families, staff, and partners a bright and inspiring year ahead.