Early Learning & Care
This programme will introduce learners to a general understanding and knowledge of children in the early years. Learners will gain first-hand experience by participating in work placement in a relevant childcare setting. The course content relates to working with children from 0 - 6 years.
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
I year
Entry Requirements
Education: Learners will not be expected to have prior knowledge or experience of the early learning and care sector on entry to the programme but they will be expected to demonstrate an interest in the field. Learners will be expected to have knowledge, skills and competences equivalent to NFQ level 4. A minimum English language and literacy competency of B2 in writing, reading, listening and speaking on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) is required at entry to the programme for speakers of English as a second or other language.
Aptitude: The programme is intended for learners interested in a career in early learning and care with children aged from 0-6 years, including those who may have an interest in working as an early learning and care practitioner or for those wishing to progress to higher education in this field.
Previous Experience: Target learners include school-leavers and mature learners returning to education. Full-time and part-time courses are intended to meet the needs of a range of learners, such as those already working in the sector who want to develop their skills and/or acquire qualifications, people working in other areas or unemployed who want to move into the ELC sector, people with responsibilities that do not enable them to undertake full-time courses and people whose preference is to undertake a part-time course.
Careers / Further progression
Progression Opportunities
BSc Nursing - UCD (10 reserved QQI places)
BSc General/Children's Mental Health
Nursing/Midwifery - UCC (22 reserved QQI places)
BSc in Applied Healthcare - SETU (2 reserved DC places)
BA Social Science - SETU (5 reserved DC places)
While we make every effort to ensure that the information is accurate and up-to-date at the time of publication, this information may be subject to changes or amendments by third-level institutions or other sources. Therefore, we recommend that you always verify the information with the relevant institutions or authorities before making any decisions based on it.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this course may pursue careers in the field of nursing, as care assistants or in health-related areas.
Further information
Courses will run subject to minimum enrolment
College Registration Fee €200
SUSI offers funding to eligible students in approved full-time courses at PLC. All types of students, from school leavers to mature students returning to education can apply for funding. www.susi.ie
Programme Content
Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care
Children’s Rights, Legislation and Regulations
Early Childhood Growth and Development
Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies
Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
5M21473 - Early Learning & Care
Certification
Awarding Body: QQI
Duration: 1 year
Award Code: 5M21473
Level: 5
Award Title: Certificate in Early Learning and Care Stage 1
Additional Certification
Manual Handling & First Aid
Erasmus
Every year a number of learners have the opportunity to travel to another European country for three weeks fully funded work experience. The students attend work in their vocational area.
For more information on the ELC course contact the
course coordinator Pamela McCarthy at pamelamccarthy@wwetb.ie