Privacy Policy

Little Scholars Privacy Notice

Introduction

Little Scholars Montessori & Childcare is committed to protecting the privacy and security of all children, parents/guardians and staff. We comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) (EU) 2016/679 and all relevant Irish childcare legislation.

We only collect the information necessary to ensure your child’s safety and to operate our service effectively.

Purpose of this Policy

This policy explains what personal data we collect, why we collect it, how it is used, who it is shared with, and your rights.

Personal Data We Collect

We may collect and process the following information:
- Child details (name, date of birth, address)
- Parent/guardian details (contact information)
- Emergency contact details
- Medical and health information (allergies, conditions, medication)
- Authorised collection details
- Developmental or additional needs information (where provided)
- Funding information (e.g. PPSN for ECCE/NCS)
- Optional permissions (e.g. photographs, communication preferences)

Legal Basis for Processing

We process personal data under the following lawful bases:
- Contractual necessity (to provide childcare services)
- Legal obligation (Tusla regulations and childcare legislation)
- Vital interests (to protect the health and safety of children)
- Consent (only for optional items such as photographs and communication tools)

How We Use Your Data

We use your information to:
- Provide childcare services
- Ensure the safety and wellbeing of your child
- Maintain required records for Tusla and regulatory bodies
- Communicate with parents/guardians
- Administer funding schemes (ECCE/NCS)

Sharing of Data

We may share data with:
- Tusla and regulatory authorities where required
- Emergency services where necessary
- Approved third-party providers (e.g. childcare software systems)
All third parties are required to process your data securely and in compliance with GDPR.

Data Retention

We retain records for the duration of your child’s time in the service and for a defined period afterwards in line with Tusla regulations, insurance requirements and legal obligations.

Your Rights

You have the right to:
- Access your personal data
- Request correction of inaccurate data
- Request erasure (where applicable)
- Restrict processing
- Data portability
- Lodge a complaint with the Data Protection Commission

Contact

If you have any questions regarding this Privacy Statement or any data protection queries, please contact management via the e-mail address provided below: -

Data Controller: Little Scholars Montessori & Childcare.


Email: admin@littlescholarschildcare.ie