Early Learning & Care Advanced - Stage 2
The Advanced Early Learning and Care professional award, Stage 2 is designed to meet the growing needs of the early learning and care sector in Ireland. This programme is based on theory and practical opportunities preparing the learner to meet requirements of the supervisory role, especially in the area of legislation and regulation of the sector.
| Award Name | Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 6 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 6 Advanced Certificate (Level 6 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 6 NFQ |
Duration
1 year full-time, September to May.
Entry Requirements
Learners who have achieved an award related to early learning and care, and equivalent to a major award at Level 5 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) may claim advanced entry to Stage 2 of the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care. Learners wishing to progress on to Stage 2 of the programme must provide evidence of successful achievement of the knowledge, skill and competence associated with Stage 1, NFQ Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care.
Prospective students are required to complete an assessment and interview to determine placement on a further education course in Portlaoise Institute. Prospective learners will be expected to demonstrate:
a desire to work in the early learning care industry
an ability to act with responsibility and autonomy
an ability to take responsibility for their own learning while under supervision
English language – Minimum English language and literacy competence for speakers of English as a second language is Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, B2 in writing, reading, listening and speaking. Evidence of achievement of this standard is necessary for entry to the programme.
Careers / Further progression
There are employment opportunities for graduates of the programme to work as an Early Years Educators and/or progress to a Lead Educator role.
Here are examples of higher education courses students can progress to:
CAO Code Course Title College NFQ Level
LC432 Early Childhood Care and Education Limerick IT (Thurles) 7
AL764 Early Years Care and Education Athlone IT 7
CW748 Early Childhood Education and Care IT Carlow 8
WD149 Early Childhood Studies Waterford IT 8
*Places are not guaranteed in these institutes and are subject to students meeting certain criteria. Please consult the individual college websites for more information on application. Information available also at www.cao.ie
Further information
All learners are required to pay the following:
An acceptance fee of €50, to be paid when offered a place on a course.
Other costs (books, exams, equipment, professional membership fees, optional training etc.) are also payable. These costs vary depending on the course chosen. Information on costs is provided during Induction.
Exam Fees of €50 (Unless Medical Card Holder)
Uniform/Tunic for Professional Practice Placement.
PLSS / FETCH Reference 358744
The website http://hea.ie/funding-governance-performance/funding/student-finance/ is the go to website for information on funding your studies.
The website https://susi.ie/ is where you can go to apply for grants.
Yes
Applications usually begin in late January, early applications are always advisable to avoid classes filling up and increase your chances of getting a position.
Many early learning and care services are seeking Lead Educators (NFQ Level 6) for supervisory roles. This role demands responsibility for best practice and high standards to meet the holistic needs of children and their families. Application of the Síolta Quality Framework and planning in line with the Aistear Curriculum Framework are main features of the Lead Educator role.
The aim of this programme is to enable learners to develop the knowledge, skills, and competence to work as autonomous practitioners, subject to practice supervision, in promoting, supporting and meeting the holistic needs of children from 0-6 years, and/or to take responsibility for a room or area in an early learning and care setting.
This programme also provides the learner with the opportunity to transfer and progress into higher education and training.
Why Should I Apply for the Course
Students will benefit from the following:
Insight into the early learning and care sector, from a supervisory viewpoint
Knowledge of the inspection process carried out in the early learning and care sector
Completion of 150 professional practice placement in a local early learning and care service, working with children aged between 0-6 years
Teamwork with early years professionals who will support and enhance personal and professional development
Academic research and report writing
Reflective practice (individual and collective)
Friendly experienced teachers who are available for academic support
Programme of Study
Advanced Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care
Sociology and Social Policy in Early Learning and Care
The Developing Child
Curriculum and Pedagogy
Inclusive Early Learning and Care
Supervision and Administration Skills in Early Learning and Care
* Modules subject to change
6M21471 - Early Learning & Care
Certification: QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning & Care
PLSS/Fetch Reference: 358744
Portlaoise Institute,
Mountrath Road,
Portlaoise,
Co. Laois.
R32 H392
email: info@portlaoiseinstitute.ie
Course Coordinator
Sandra Duggan
Email: sduggan@loetb.ie
Phone: (057) 8621480