Admission requirements and choice of ECEC setting

The admission procedure is regulated by the Rulebook on the manner, procedure and criteria for admission of children in preschool institutions. The admission is based on a public call issued by each institution according to available capacity. Applications are typically submitted within a 15-day period, either electronically or in person.

Before enrolment, parents are required to:
•    submit a medical certificate;
•    specify authorised persons for child pick-up;
•    sign a contract regulating mutual rights and obligations.

Children are usually enrolled in institutions close to their place of residence. Transfers between institutions are possible and are subject to availability.

Group size and child/staff ratios

Educational groups are organized according to the age. The maximum number of children per group is the following:

• up to 1 year: 8 children
• up to 2 years: 12 children
• up to 3 years: 14 children
• mixed groups up to 3 years: 10 children
• age 3–4: 20 children
• age 4–5: 24 children
• age 5–6: 25 children
• mixed groups 3–6 years: 20 children

In groups including children with developmental difficulties or disabilities, group sizes may be reduced with the approval of the Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation.

The educational work is carried out by a preschool teachers (educators), supported by healthcare staff (pediatric nurses) and professional associates (e.g. psychologists, pedagogues, speech therapists). Additional support staff may be engaged for inclusive education.

Annual, weekly and daily organisation

The preschool year runs from 1 September to 31 August.

Programmes are offered as:
• full-day programmes (6–9 hours),
• half-day programmes (4–6 hours),
• short programmes (approximately 3 hours),
• specialised programmes (up to 4 hours).

Institutions typically operate between 06:00 and 17:00, with flexibility depending on parental needs.

Preschool institutions prepare the annual work plans defining the organization, content and schedule of educational activities.

A typical daily schedule includes:
• arrival and free activities,
• structured educational activities,
• outdoor play,
• meals and rest,
• afternoon activities.

The table below shows the weekly schedule of activities in a preschool institution for all children.