ELC – Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care
This course will provide you with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to work in a range of childcare and early years services for children aged 0-6 years. Successful learners are awarded a nationally and internationally recognised certificate in the theory and practice of Early Learning and Care. Learners who successfully complete this award can progress to the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in
Early Learning and Care. It is suitable for both school-leavers and for experienced mature persons seeking a formal qualification.
Work experience placement is an integral part of this course. Students must obtain one day per week work experience for the academic year. The day will be specified by the college. There will be a two-week block placement, date to be specified by the College. Students are required to gain experience of working with babies and toddlers aged from birth to 2 years 8 months, and pre-school children aged 2 years 8 months to 6 years.
Higher Education Progression
Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning & Care or Level 8 Degree in Early Childhood Care at designated colleges.
Career Opportunities
• Early Childhood Practitioner
• Educator in Pre-Schools & Crèches
• Nanny/Au pair.
Target Award
QQI Early Learning & Care Certificate – 5M21473
Start Date: 09-09-2024 Hours/week: 33 Hrs 00 Mins Duration: 38 weeks
Learners will not be expected to have prior knowledge or experience of the early learning and care sector on entry to the programme but they will be expected to demonstrate an interest in the field. Learners will be expected to have knowledge, skills and competences equivalent to NFQ level 4. 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.
Age Requirements
Minimum school-leaving age
Learning Aptitude
The programme is intended for learners interested in a career in early learning and care with children aged from 0-6 years, including those who may have an interest in working as an early learning and care practitioner or for those wishing to progress to higher education in this field.
Previous Experience
Target learners include school-leavers and mature learners returning to education. Full-time and part-time courses are intended to meet the needs of a range of learners, such as those already working in the sector who want to develop their skills and/or acquire qualifications, people working in other areas or unemployed who want to move into the ELC sector, people with responsibilities that do not enable them to undertake full-time courses and people whose preference is to undertake a part-time course.
| Module | Award | Body |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care | Early Learning & Care Certificate (5N21474) | QQI |
| Children’s Rights, Legislation and Regulation | Early Learning & Care Certificate (5N21474) | QQI |
| Holistic Care of Children, 0-6 Years | Early Learning & Care Certificate (5N21474) | QQI |
| Early Childhood Growth and Development | Early Learning & Care Certificate (5N21474) | QQI |
| Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies | Early Learning & Care Certificate (5N21474) | QQI |
| Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs | Early Learning & Care Certificate (5N21474) | QQI |
On completion of this programme learners will have the skills, knowledge and competencies 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.