Level 5 Early Learning and Care NEW COURSE APPLY NOW
Our QQI Level 5 Childcare Major award programme is designed to prepare students to work in a supervised role, competently, safely and effectively with children aged 0 – 6 and pursue a career in Early Childhood Care & Education. The course will also give students an insight into the range of employment opportunities in the health service/special needs sector. The course is designed to emphasise the integrated nature of work with young children.
Since September 2016 all staff in existing childcare services must have a level 5 qualification in early childhood care and education, and team leaders will have to have a Level 6 qualification (or equivalent).
Modules
Learners will need to complete a total of 6 mandatory modules to achieve the major award.
- Professional Practice Placement in ELC
- Children’s Rights, Legislation and Regulation
- Holistic Care of Children (Birth to Six Years)
- Early Childhood Growth and Development
- Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies
- Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
Professional Practice Placement
A period of 150 hours work placement in two Tusla registered child care settings is required for each stage of the programme. This will take the form of one day per week for the academic year. The College will inform the students of the format in September.
How this course is taught
Coláiste an Chreagáin had developed a style of teaching to meet the demands of a diverse community of learners.
- Learners develop skills of analysis, critical thinking, problem solving and reflective practice
- A range of advanced multimedia and internet based technologies are used to engage students and bring the subject to life
- Regulated Clinical Placements (Work Experience)
- Vital supports are tailored to the needs of the individual learners
- Career guidance assistance regarding further career development
Career Opportunities
A professional qualification in ELC is now a pre-requisite to working in the ever-expanding childcare area. The successful candidate would be qualified to work in a privately run Nursery, Voluntary ELC Setting, Hospital or Early Start Centre.
Duration
This is a one-year, full-time course that runs from September to May
Entry Requirements
- Education: Learners must have completed leavinf certificate of a level 5 full major award at QQI. Applicants will be expected to demonstrate a standard of knowledge, skill and competence equivalent to NFQ Level 4 when accessing a Level 5 programme. Learners will be assessed to ensure they achieve B1 in english.
- Aptitude: Applicants must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
- Previous Experience: Applicants must be able to demonstrate a moderate range of knowledge, skills and competencies relevant to the course, be able to work responsibility and demonstrate the ability to work on their own initiative.
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Fees
- The government levy has been waivered by the Government, so there fees will be €175 to complete this course
- An exam free of €50 for QQI Level 5 applies to all learners except
Those in receipt of Back to Education Allowance.
Medical Card Holders (valid at time of Registration).
Non EU Students are subject to an International Fee.
We advise non-EU citizens living outside Ireland to contact the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service on www.inis.gov.ie to ensure the course you are considering applying for is eligible for a student visa. Non-EU citizens living in Ireland are welcome to apply and require a PPS number (Personal Public Service Number). Non-EU citizens are required to pay a tuition fee set by the Irish government which is currently €3653. Some exemptions apply, for further information, please contact http://www.gretb.ie .
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Special Features
Course is directed by professional and qualified tutors who are credited with a wealth of practical experience. Preparation for employment in a wide variety of settings including schools (special, pre-school and crèches), day-care, residential care, and after school programmes.
Progression
This childcare programme is structured to provide graduates with a Certificate in Early Learning and Care. Also there is the opportunity to progress to Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care (Level 6). Further progression to specialised courses in higher education. This enables students, who may not have the required Leaving Certificate points, entry to their desired course from the CAO system. The successful completion of this PLC course can provide the opportunity to achieve up to 390 points and gain access to 3rd Level or for mature students who did not complete a Leaving Certificate to gain access to 3rd Level by applying through the CAO system, http://www.cao.ie/index.php?page=fetac_search
Please Note
Coláiste an Chreagáin reserves the right to make changes to any course, to limit the number of places available or to withdraw a course. No part of this information shall be deemed to form a contract between the college and a student or a third party.