News
Inauguration in Clichy-sous-Bois of the first nursery under the Yci Enfance programme
24.10.2025
Faced with the social and educational emergency in priority neighbourhoods targeted by urban policy (QPV), a unique consortium bringing together public and private actors – the National Agency for Urban Renewal (ANRU), Meridiam, Banque des Territoires, the National Family Allowance Fund (CNAF) and several management associations – has launched the Yci Enfance programme.
A unique and innovative partnership model. A pressing need, a concrete response
Today, more than a third of QPVs have no nurseries, and children from low-income families are three to four times less likely to have access to a nursery place than others. Yci Enfance offers a turnkey model, combining the expertise of private operators with the public interest mission of public actors. The nurseries will be managed exclusively by non-profit associations already established in QPVs and committed to quality care, parenting support, gender equality and the inclusion of children with special needs. Funding is based on a balance between equity capital (ANRU, Meridiam), loans from the Banque des Territoires and subsidies from the CNAF, making it possible to secure investments with a social and environmental impact in areas often neglected by private investors.
The Emile Zola nursery in Clichy sous bois: A nursery designed for families, with social and solidarity-based pricing
The first nursery in the programme, which will open its doors in Clichy-sous-Bois in January 2026, was inaugurated on 22 October 2025. The inauguration of the Émile Zola nursery marks a major step forward in access to early childhood education in priority neighbourhoods (QPV). This first achievement of the national Yci Enfance programme responds to a social emergency: in Clichy, four out of five children had no childcare options until now. The nursery, managed by the Crescendo association, offers 30 places accessible to all residents of the town, with fees strictly adapted to families’ incomes. This model ensures that the most disadvantaged families, often single-parent families, can benefit from high-quality childcare for their children, without the cost being a barrier. The fees are approved by the CAF (family allowance fund) under the PSU (urban solidarity contribution) scheme, ensuring minimal out-of-pocket expenses for families and local authorities.
Two further openings are planned in Tourcoing and Chenôve by 2027. Other projects are under development in Besançon, Montpellier, Romainville, Orly, Rilleux-la-Pape and Marseille. Ultimately, 100 nurseries will be created across the country, with pricing adapted to families’ social situations and attractive costs for local authorities.
A lasting impact for families and local areas
This scheme aims to combat inequality from early childhood, support local employment and strengthen public assets by returning nurseries to local authorities after 30 years of operation. The childcare services offered by Yci Enfance are designed to be exemplary, sustainable and accessible to all, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable families.
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