Early Learning & Care - Stage 1
This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge, practical skills and competence required to pursue a career in the Early Learning and Care sector.
| 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
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
Course Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate with 5 passes or equivalent is the standard entry requirement for all Level 5 courses. Leaving Certificate Applied or QQI Level 4 Award are also acceptable on the majority of Level 5 courses. Applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements (e.g. mature learners etc.) for particular courses may be interviewed.
Non-Standard Applicants
Non-Standard Applicants may be required to complete an interview and/or other form of assessment to successfully complete their registration on their chosen programme.
English Language
All courses are delivered through English. In addition to the listed entry requirements, applicants whose first language is not English are required to complete and provide evidence of English language proficiency. Where prospective learners first language is not English, the standard minimum entry requirements for all courses is proficiency at B2 on The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
School Leavers
Whether you have attended school in Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK or further afield, we have a programme to suit your needs. We have a wide range of suitable programmes with internationally recognised certification that will enhance both your career and further education possibilities.
International Students
DIFE welcomes applications from eligible international students. Help and advice is available for international students at every step of the application process and continues after enrolment onto your chosen programme.
Student Requirements:
The following requirements are necessary to access and successfully complete the programme:
- 150 hours work experience in a minimum of 2 settings catering for children aged (0 – 2 years & 8 months) and (2 years & 8 months to 6 years)
- Garda Vetting
- English Language and Literacy Competency
- Course Interview
Careers / Further progression
Progression & Career Options:
Successful graduates can opt to continue to Stage 2 of the programme to complete the QQI Level 6 Early Learning and Care course within DIFE. Alternatively, graduates may opt to opt to go directly into the world of work in nurseries, playgroups, crèches, with private families or work as an AIM Assistant in an Early Years Setting or progress to related degree courses.
Level 7 and 8 Courses to which this course is linked:
TU Dublin (City Campus), DKIT - Early Childhood Studies
TU Dublin (Blanchardstown Campus) - Early Childhood Education
DCU - Early Childhood Education
Marino Instute of Ed. - Early Childhood Care
AIT - Social Studies, Early Years and Childhood Studies
UCC, Maynooth University - Arts, Social Science, Early Childhood Teaching and Learning (Part-time) Business, Law
Entry to a range of other courses in Institutes of Technology.
This is not an exhaustive list. Applicants are advised at all times to confirm linked Awards, any additional module requirements, application processes and scoring systems with the Admissions Offices of the participating higher education institutions, or visit www.cao.ie.
Further information
Course commences: September 2026.
Students should apply online through the college website: www.dife.ie (see "Application Weblink").
Further information of the webpage - https://www.dife.ie/application-procedure/
Aim:
This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge, practical skills and competence required to pursue a career in the Early Learning and Care sector.
The course will enable learners to acquire the skills, knowledge and competencies to work both independently and as part of a team in an Early Learning setting. Graduates will gain the skills to provide holistic care and learning experiences for children from birth to six years of age. The course is suitable for both school leavers and mature students seeking a formal qualification.
Course Content:
Professional Practice Placement in ELC (150 hours compulsory work experience)
Children’s Rights, Legislation and Regulations
Holistic Care of Children (Birth to 6 Years)
Early Childhood Growth and Development
Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies
Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
Option to repeat Leaving Certificate Irish
Additional Qualifications:
Manual Handling
Children First E-Learning Programme
Option to repeat Leaving Certificate Irish (for future entry to Professional Masters in Primary Teaching).
Award: 5M21473 – Early Learning & Care - Stage 1.
5M21473 – Early Learning & Care (Stage 1 of the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning & Care).
Contact Admissions Office or Course Co-ordinator,
Drogheda Institute,
Tel: 041 983 7105
Web: www.dife.ie
email: dife@lmetb.ie