Assistants in Kindergartens

In Upper Austria, a direct grant supports the employment of educational assistants in kindergartens to strengthen the participation of children with special needs. Eligible recipients include legal entities such as associations, parishes, and municipalities engaged in the education and training sector. The funding is ongoing and available without time limitation, enabling sustainable and continuous support. This financial assistance can cover personnel costs and anchor individual care measures in everyday routine. The program significantly contributes to the inclusive design of educational institutions and promotes equal opportunities for all young people.

Applications can be submitted at any time via the central online system, with a submission consisting of forms F1 to F7. These include, among others, medical statements, integration discussions, expert consultation reports, and observation sheets. A prerequisite for approval is an application to the Integration Advisory Service of Caritas Upper Austria and compliance with the requirements according to the Upper Austrian Child Education and Care Act and the Upper Austrian Equal Opportunities Act. Payroll accounting is conducted semi-annually in February and October, accompanied by random on-site inspections. This ensures that the assistance hours are provided purposefully for the benefit of the children. Municipalities and non-profit organizations thus receive targeted funding to employ qualified integration staff and realize an inclusive learning environment in the early childhood sector.