NETWORKING

BCCN has both facilitated and participated in the process of networking with a range of other agencies since its formation in 1997. This has lead to a number of collaborative projects which have helped enhance support to both the Early Childhood and After School sector.

Collaborative projects have included:

• Production of resources with Barnardos(Legislation Handbook for Childcare Providers and Health and Safety in Childcare), IPPA( DVD and booklet on Creating Dynamic Environments for Play and Learning) and the NCNA (Nine Steps to Choosing a Childcare Service)
• Development the  School Age Childcare Collaborative Initiative (SACCI) funded through the EOCP,  which lead to the development and delivery of a full FETAC level 5 training programme for staff working with school age children in a range of  Out of School settings (Partners included IPPA, Barnardos, NCNA, FAS and Limerick CCC)
• Delivery of Irish Language training to practitioners on the BCCN Quality Development and Accreditation Programme and Meath
• Development of the Smart Start Health Promotion  Project
• Establishment of Start Strong (formally the Irish Childcare Policy Network) and QDOSS (Quality Development of Out of school Services)
• Cross Border initiatives and training programmes, including the Respecting Difference programme

Networking with other agencies outside the Republic has facilitated access to a broad range of information and research findings.

 Networking is a valuable process whereby representatives from different groups come together to achieve common goals and to share experiences, information, knowledge and expertise.

Networking can be formal or informal, structured or free flowing, one to one or with a group.

Networking can provide access to a broad range of information and assist in influencing change to a degree that would not be possible were a group or individual to work in isolation.

The Border Counties Childhood Network provides an example of how a network can operate effectively to achieve common goals whilst members still retain their own identity.

Networking provides opportunities to exchange ideas with other professionals from a variety of different backgrounds; to widen horizons, learn from others and generally expand learning experiences beyond the normal confines. This not only helps to improve practice in many areas, but also makes for innovative working and facilitates change where necessary.