Early Learning & Care - Stage 1
The one-year full-time equivalent programme leads to a Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care. The programme is designed to meet the professional award standards for early learning and care at NFQ level 5. The programme comprises six mandatory modules which equips the learner with the vocational skills and knowledge to work at entry level across a range of early learning and care settings or to progress to stage 2 of the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care or to a relevant higher Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care education programme.
| 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
38 Weeks
Entry Requirements
Education: 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.
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.
Further information
Start Date: 07/09/2026 End Date: 28/05/2027
(NFQ Award Code 5M21473)
The one-year full-time equivalent programme leads to a Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care. The programme is designed to meet the professional award standards for early learning and care at NFQ level 5. The programme comprises six mandatory modules which equips the learner with the vocational skills and knowledge to work at entry level across a range of early learning and care settings or to progress to stage 2 of the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care or to a relevant higher Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care education programme. The focus is on providing for the holistic well-being, development and learning needs of children from 0 to six years across a range of ELC settings. The programme offers a balance of theory and practice, and professional practice placement is integral to the teaching and learning. Learners who successfully complete the programme will have opportunities to progress into the work place or into further and higher education.
Learning Outcomes
• To create awareness of standard practices, procedures and reporting responsibilities in line with national legislation, regulation and frameworks to provide a holistic, nurturing child and family centred approach to ELC.
• To facilitate the learner to develop the skills to observe, identify and respond to children’s interests and individual learning and care needs in partnership with families and stakeholders
• To facilitate the learner to engage in ethical rights based inclusive and participatory practice promoting children’s agency to provide positive outcomes for all children and their families
• To explore with the learner theories of play and child development and how strategies for learning enhance the holistic development of the child
• To prepare learners for engagement in professional practice placements, the use of reflective learning tools for self-evaluation, and personal and professional development
• To facilitate the learner to develop specialised vocational and academic literacies to facilitate career progression
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
Development of Key Skills
Awards: QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care 5M21473
Phone: 061578100 1800707077
Email: cfet.admissions@lcetb.ie