Early Learning & Care
The aim of the Stage 1 of the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care programme is to enable the learner to acquire the knowledge, skills and competence to work independently and as part of a team, subject to direction and practice supervision, as a member of the early learning and care community of practice, providing holistic care and learning experiences for children from 0-6 years across a range of early learning and care settings.
| 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
37 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.
Careers / Further progression
Learners will have acquired the knowledge skills and competencies in the theory and practice in this vocational area.
Further information
Start Date: 14/09/2026
End Date: 28/05/2027
*This programme leads to a new QQI award, the Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care 5M21473.
NB - It is important to note that the 6 mandatory Programme Modules are not accredited Awards in their own right. The Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care will be awarded on successful completion of all of the 6 mandatory Programme Modules.
Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care
Children's Rights, Legislation and Regulation
Holistic Care of Children, 0-6 Years
Early Childhood Growth and Development
Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies
Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
5M21473 - Early Learning & Care
Charles Gorney
Phone: 0749706047
Email: fetcentreletterkenny@donegaletb.ie