Early Learning & Care with Special Needs Assisting - Advanced Stage 2
The aim of this programme is to equip the learner with knowledge and skills required to work in a variety of roles within Early Learning and Care setting including the management /lead a team. Additionally, this programme includes the elective module Special Needs Assisting.
| Award Name | Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 6 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 6 NFQ |
Entry Requirements
Learners can progress to this course if they have already achieved the Early Learning and Care Level 5 award (Year 1) or equivalent.
Where the learner achieved their certificate five years prior to application to the programme, they will be granted automatic advanced entry to stage 2.
Where the learner achieved the certificate more than five years prior to application to the programme, they will be required to demonstrate that their learning remains current.
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.
Careers / Further progression
Career Prospects
Graduates in Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care are equipped to work in managerial and leadership positions.
The current qualification requirement for room leaders of preschool is Level 6 (DCEDIY, register of recognised Early Years qualifications).
In addition, this course provides a good platform for studying related degree programmes, which can then be used to apply for postgraduate teaching programmes.
Degree Progression
There are many degree options available from this course, including:
College Course Area Level
Maynooth University Early Childhood Teaching and Learning 8
TU Dublin (Tallaght) Early Childhood Care and Education 8
DKIT Early Childhood Studies 8
Durham University Primary Education 8
DCU Early Childhood Education 8
Further information
QQI Exam Fee € 80.00
Administration Fee € 50.00
Capitation Fee €70.00
Good News Regarding Your Course Fees
In August 2022, Monaghan Institute and CMETB announced plans to significantly reduce fees on full time courses. This means that your course fees have been reduced to a maximum of €200. If you have a Medical Card/Social Welfare Payment, the fee will be €150. This fee includes all course materials, exam fees, toolkits, and uniforms.
Additional courses:
First Aid Responder, and Handling and Lifting course fees of €240 are also fully funded by Monaghan Institute and CMETB.
Full-time learners may be eligible to apply for PLC maintenance grants, which are means tested. For further details, visit www.studentfinance.ie or www.susi.ie where applications can be made online or downloaded.
You can apply online now. Applications close in October each year and reopen for the next academic year in January.
Monaghan Institute operates a policy of selection and admission of learners that is, at all stages and in all ways, equitable, transparent and accountable and respects the rights and dignity of applicants. The process for gaining access to full time courses at Monaghan Institute consists of several sequential stages:
Application
Interview (where applicable)
Selection and notification
Registration
Induction (where applicable)
Garda Vetting (where applicable)
Monaghan Institute operates under the CMETB FET Admissions Policy, which is available on our Policies page.
Is this course right for you?
The programme is intended for learners interested in a career working with children in early learning and care. This includes assisting children with special needs. The advanced certificate in Early Learning and Care is also suitable for those wishing to progress to higher education in this field. All staff working in leadership/managerial roles must hold minimum QQI Level 6 Major Award in Early Learning (or equivalent).
What will you study?
The overall aim of the two-stage programme is to enable learners to develop the knowledge, skills, and competence to support the holistic needs of children in an ELC setting. Learners will also develop skills in the management of relationships with all stakeholders and the community while working in the ELC sector. Additionally, the course provides learners with the opportunity for practical work placement.
Professional practice placement:
Learners must complete 150 hours of professional practice placement in each year in a minimum of two settings:
Working directly with children aged between 0- 2 years 8 months, and
Working directly with children aged 2 years 8 months – 6 years.
Placement in Primary School
Learners must be Garda vetted before going on professional practice placement. Learners must pass the professional practice placement elements in each year.
Areas of Study may include:
Advanced Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care
Sociology and Social Policy in Early Learning and Care
The Developing Child
Curriculum and Pedagogy
Inclusive Early Learning and Care
Supervision and Administration in Early Learning and Care
Special Needs Assisting (Elective)
6M21471 - Advanced Early Learning & Care
Qualifications Obtained
6M21471 QQI Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care, NFQ Level 6
For more information on this course, please contact Lynda Smyth
Monaghan Institute Education Campus,
Armagh Road,
Monaghan
Tel. 047-84900
E-mail: info@monaghaninstitute.ie
Visit our Website on www.monaghaninstitute.ie