Footprints Preschool, Blackrock — inspection reports and findings

Sessional · 3 - 6 Years · Blackrock, Louth · Tusla ID TU2023LH001 · Registered since 29 August 2026

An inspection records what inspectors saw on one day; services respond with corrective actions — how to read this.

(2)(a&b) Documentary evidence was not available of a 2nd written and validated reference for the contracted music teacher who attends the service on a regular basis

Provider's corrective action:

The registered provider stated that the contracted music teacher submitted an updated second written reference. Procedures have been reviewed to ensure that all required documentation for staff and contractors is maintained and readily available in advance of the school year and for inspection in the future

The registered provider did not ensure that all reasonable measures were taken to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of a preschool child in relation to the following: Infection Control: The following infection control risks were observed: 1. Ineffective hand washing was observed. There was no running hot water available in the sanitary area or care room during the inspection. The staff when questioned stated that this is an on-going issue since prior to Christmas. While documentary evidence of a risk assessment was available it did not detail the absence of hot water in the service. 2. The paper ‘blue roll’ used for hand drying was observed stored on the floor of the sanitary area. This is a cross-contamination risk. It is acknowledged that photographic evidence was submitted following the inspection of a wall mounted paper towel dispenser

Provider's corrective action:

Corrective & Preventive Action A plumber was engaged to rectify the issue with the hot water system. The plumber has provided a confirmation letter stating that the hot water issue has been resolved and that the water system has been tested. The system has also been added to the annual service list for ongoing maintenance. The plumber has included the pre-school on his annual service list for ongoing maintenance. Regarding the blue roll, it is now policy to ensure the wall mounted paper towel dispenser is full daily

Found compliant: Regulation 11, 16, 19, 25.

(2)(d) Documentary evidence of the required international police vetting was not available for 1 staff member in the service who had lived outside the Irish jurisdiction for a period greater than six months as an adult

Provider's corrective action:

International Child Protection Certificate attached. Registered provider will ensure that staff files are up to date

Infection Control: There was no fridge available for the appropriate storage of the children’s lunches which contained perishable items. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

The service is now currently using a spare fridge that was located in a room next to Footprints Pre School room. See photograph of fridge available for appropriate storage of children's lunches which contain perishable items

Found compliant: Regulation 11, 19.

Footprints Preschool