Early Learning & Care
This one-year course is designed for learners wishing to pursue a career in Early Childhood Learning and Care. In a supportive classroom environment our learners in North Connaught College of Further Education, Tubbercurry, Sligo become familiar with the skills and competencies essential for working in the early childcare sector. They also study developmental theories as they apply to early childhood and experience opportunities to express their own creative abilities in a nurturing learning environment.
| 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
1 year
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate, including Leaving Certificate Applied, or equivalent qualifications at NFQ level 4.
Where learners do not have Leaving Certificate or equivalent qualifications at NFQ Level 4, learners will be facilitated to demonstrate their readiness to participate on the programme via an interview and a short piece of writing.
English language – minimum English language and literacy competence at entry to the programme for speakers of English as a second language is Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, B2 in writing, reading, listening and speaking. Evidence of achievement of this standard is necessary for entry to the programme.
Prospective learners will be expected to demonstrate:
a desire to work in the early learning and care sector,
the ability to act with responsibility and autonomy, and
the ability to take responsibility for their own learning while under supervision.
Careers / Further progression
Programme Progression
On completion of the course some of the options available are:
Work as a childcare assistant in a variety of ECCE settings
Complete the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care in North Connaught College and go on to work in a supervisory capacity in a variety of ECCE settings or open their own childcare business
Progress to third level education
Progression to St. Angela’s College, Sligo – Access to Post-Primary Teaching (APT) Project (Home Economics teaching)
Pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education (with the option of progressing to Primary School Teaching, Montessori Teaching or Special Needs Teaching)
Specialise in Special Needs Education and pursue a career as a Special Needs Assistant or a Special Education Needs Teacher.
Further information
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Students taking Further Education Courses are eligible for PLC maintenance grants. These grants are means tested and depend on individual financial circumstances. All grant applications are handled by SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) www.susi.ie
The overall aim of the programme is to provide the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to work independently and under supervision in a range of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) settings and/or to progress to higher education and training.
Students will gain knowledge in:
Children’s Rights, Legislation and Regulation
Early Childhood Growth and Development
Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies
Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
Holistic Care of Children (Birth to six years).
Professional practice placement (work experience) is also a core feature of the Early Learning and Care programme with students spending time in a childcare setting, enhancing employability.
Course Content Title
Children’s Rights, legislation and Regulation
Early Childhood Growth and Development
Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies
Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
Holistic care of Children (Birth to Six Years)
Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care
5M21473 - Early Learning & Care
Phone: 071 - 91 85035
Email: nccollege@msletb.ie
www.northconnaughtcollege.net