Early Learning and Care (Childcare Year 1)
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Course Content
- 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
Course Description
This one year, full time programme is designed to provide learners with the knowledge and practical skills required to work as a Special Needs Assistant in a variety of educational settings.
Learners will have the opportunity to gain work experience in an Early Years Setting, working and caring for children, aged 0-6 years, with a variety of needs. Upon successful completion of the course, learners will be qualified to work as an SNA in Early Years settings such as creches, pre-schools but also in primary and secondary schools.
Certification
QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning Care
Career Opportunities
Graduates progress to employment in range of early education settings across the public and private sector
Childcare Assistant | Special Needs Assistant | Classroom Assistant | Early Years Educator |
Preschool Assistant | Child minding | Afterschool Assistant | Montessori Teacher | Early Years Educator | AIM Support Worker
Statistics
A landmark in funding was €1,025 Billion allocated for the ELC sector in Budget 2023
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Progression to degrees
Graduates can progress to a variety of third-level degree programmes in Universities or Institutes of Technology including:
DkIT | Early Childhood Studies | Level 8
DkIT | Social Care | Level 8
NUIG | Early Childhood Studies and Practice | Level 8
TU Dublin | Early Childhood Care and Education | Level 8
DCU | Early Childhood Education | Level 8
DCU | Education and Training | Level 8
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Fees For The Academic Year 2025 – 2026
All courses have a Registration Fee of €30 (non-refundable).
A non-refundable Registration fee of €30 will be payable on acceptance of a PLC place. Essential course materials may be required for some courses the cost of which will be borne by the student.
All fees are subject to change. All fees must be paid with a Credit/Debit card online. No cash is acceptable.
I carried out my work experience in Tiny Tots Creche and Preschool which I really enjoyed. When I finished my course, I applied for a position as an Early Years Teacher and started in September. I plan to continue to study for my level 6 in Early Childhood Care and Education while working. I would definitely recommend doing this course if you are interested in working with children or with children with special needs. The teachers are very helpful and approachable.
Amy Caul Early Childhood Care & Education Graduate, 2018