Early Learning & Care - Stage 1
This is the first stage of a two-year, industry-developed programme leading to the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care. The course has been designed to provide learners with insight and understanding of the developing child and an opportunity to develop skills for working with young children in a variety of settings. Upon completing Stage 1 learners have the option of moving directly into working in the Early Years Sector as this is the QQI minimum qualification for working in the sector.
| 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 full-time.
Entry Requirements
Special Entry Requirements:
Garda clearance is a requirement
Relevant work experience desirable
Applicants will be required to demonstrate a proficiency in communication in English
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to achieve a competency rating to Level B2 on the CEFRLO framework.
All our Level 5 courses are open to school leavers over 16 years of age (Leaving Certificate / Leaving Certificate Applied Students / A Levels / GCSE or equivalent), QQI Level 4 graduates
and mature applicants.
A Level 5 award is a prerequistite to access a Level 6 Programme.
Careers / Further progression
Progression:
• Direct entry to employment in Early Learning and Care settings such as crèches, nurseries, playgroups.
• Opportunities to progress to further and higher education in the fields of Early Childhood Education.
• Progression to the Stage Two course in Early Learning and Care (Level 6) at College of Further Education and Training, Kilkenny
Further information
Learners attending Further Education/Post Leaving Certificate programmes may apply to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI). All applications for grants in respect of new enrolments will be made online for the 2024/2025 academic year.
It is not necessary to have received an offer of a college place or to be enrolled at the College of Further Education and Training, Kilkenny in order to apply. The closing date is the end of August each year, but you should apply as soon as possible once the 2024/2025 applications are open. Early application is advised.
These grants are means-tested and payable monthly. Payment of grants may be subject to attendance in accordance with the Department of Education and Skills regulations. The college is required to make monthly reports on your attendance to the grants authority.
Applications for maintenance grants can be made online through www.studentfinance.ie or www.susi.ie
Interviews are held in March / May / August with places offered on a first come basis.Places are offered based on interview performance and suitability for the course.
Component Awards:
• Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care (5C21523)
• Children’s Rights Legislation and Regulation (5C21524)
• Early Childhood Growth and Development (5C21526)
• Curriculum Play and Creative Studies (5C21527)
• Understanding & Assisting Children with Additional Needs (5C21528)
• Holistic Care of Children (0-6) (5C21525
Professional Practice Placement:
Learners are required to complete 150 hours of practice placement in a TUSLA registered childcare setting over the duration of this course. This will be scheduled as a blend of one day per week and block placement. Information on placement will be provided at interview and induction.
Additional Training:
Learners have the option of additional short courses in First Aid Responder programmes with Paediatrics. Learners will also have the opportunity to participate in Drama and Art workshops.
5M21473 - Early Learning & Care
Award Title: QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care 5M21473
College of Further Education and Training, Kilkenny
Ormonde Road, Kilkenny,
Co. Kilkenny, R95 W2XN.
T: 056 776 3321
E: info@cfet.ie
www.collegeoffetkilkenny.ie