Early Learning & Care - Stage 1
This is a one-year full-time course designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge and competencies to work both independently and as part of team in an Early Learning setting.
| Award Name | First Aid Response |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | PreHospital Emergency Care Council |
| NFQ Level | |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Aid Response | PreHospital Emergency Care Council | ||
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
Student Requirements:
The following requirements are necessary to access and successfully complete the programme:
- 150 hours work experience in a minimum of 2 settings catering for children aged (0 – 2 years & 8 months) and (2 years & 8 months to 6 years)
- Garda Vetting
- English Language and Literacy Competency
- Course Interview
Careers / Further progression
Progression & Career Options:
Successful graduates can opt to continue to Stage 2 of the programme to complete the QQI Level 6 Early Learning and Care course within DIFE. Alternatively, graduates may opt to opt to go directly into the world of work in nurseries, playgroups, crèches, with private families or work as an AIM Assistant in an Early Years Setting or progress to related degree courses.
Further information
Course commences September 2024.
Students should apply online through the college website: www.dife.ie (see "Application Weblink").
Applications are accepted from the 1st of December each year. The first round of interviews are held in March. Students applying after the March interviews will be interviewed in late May and those applying after May will be interviewed in late August/early September. Interviewees will be invited for interview via text and email, so it is important that a working mobile number and email address are carefully recorded on application.
Note: There are no application fees applicable and all applications are made through www.dife.ie.
Application Procedure for International Students
DIFE welcomes and values students from all over the world. All courses in DIFE are conducted through English. All students must prove that they have the sufficient competency in English prior to commencing a programme of study. The following administrative arrangements also apply:
- All international students must provide appropriate identification documentation and comply fully with the residency requirements of the Irish Government.
- Non-EU citizens will be required to pay an economic fee as determined by the Department of Education and Skills.
- Applications can only be made by Non-EU citizens if they are resident in Ireland at the time of application.
- This fee is presently €3,653 per year (subject to change). Some categories of Non-EU citizens may be exempt from the economic fee.
- The college will not engage in any way in the process of visa application.
Registration
Registration for all students takes place in late August/early September. Students will be notified by post in advance of their registration day. Students will not be officially registered with the college until all fees are paid or proof of exemption status is submitted e.g. copy of SUSI grant approval, medical card or proof of Back to Education allowance.
This is a one-year full-time course designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge and competencies to work both independently and as part of team in an Early Learning setting. Graduates will gain the skills to provide holistic care and learning experiences for children from birth to six years of age. The course is suitable for both school leavers and experienced or mature students seeking a formal qualification.
Professional Practice Placement in ELC
Children’s Rights, Legislation and Regulations
Holistic Care of Children (Birth to 6 Years)
Early Childhood Growth and Development
Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies
Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
Additional Qualifications:
People Handling
Infection Control
Tulsa Child Protection Course
Option to repeat Leaving Certificate Irish (for future entry to Professional Masters in Primary Teaching).
5M21473 – Early Learning & Care (Stage 1 of the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning & Care).
Award: 5M21473 – Early Learning & Care (Stage 1 of the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning & Care).
Contact Admissions Office or Course Co-ordinator,
Drogheda Institute,
Tel: 041 983 7105
Web: www.dife.ie
email: dife@lmetb.ie