The journey to the pre-school building in Brookfield, in west Tallaght, passes through some of the most stark pockets of deprivation in the State. Unemployment here is way above the national average. Early school-leaving rates are among the highest in the country. Literacy is a major problem, too.
As you pass row after row of mostly grey corporation estates and turn the corner onto Brookfield Road, one building stands out: it’s an angular, multi-coloured community centre that many see as a beacon for the area.
The centre is home to Fledglings Early Years, a groundbreaking early childhood education and care facility. More.