Children First Training Requirements 2026: Who Needs What
Last updated: July 2026
Every early-years service in Ireland has obligations under the Children First Act 2015. The practical questions are who needs the training, how often it is refreshed, and which records an inspector will ask for.
Who needs what
- Introduction to Children First e-learning. All staff working with children. Tusla's free module is the accepted baseline.
- Refresher training. Widely recommended every 3 years. Inspectors hold you to the cycle in your own safeguarding policy.
- Designated Liaison Person. Every service needs a named DLP, and ideally a deputy, as the contact for reporting concerns to Tusla.
- Mandated persons. Certain early-years roles have legal reporting obligations under the Act.
- Child Safeguarding Statement. Required, displayed publicly, and reviewed at least every 24 months or after a material change.
The records an inspector will ask for
- A completion record for each staff member's e-learning, with dates.
- Evidence of refreshers in line with your stated cycle.
- The current Child Safeguarding Statement, its review date, and where it is displayed.
- Staff who can name the DLP when asked.
Pair this with the Garda vetting guide and the ECCE compliance checklist.