Early Learning & Care - Stage 1
Throughout this Early Learning and Care course, you’ll gain valuable knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on experience that will prepare you to work with children aged 0-6 and promote their holistic development.
| 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
Minimum 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.
• 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.
Careers / Further progression
Employment Opportunities:
Learners exiting the programme after completing Stage 1 with a QQI Level 5 award in Early Learning Care can progress to employment in a range of early years settings such as:
• Montessori Pre Schools and Schools
• Private Crèches
• Community Playgroups
• Primary Schools – Early Start Schools
• Centres offering ECCE (free pre-school years)
• Outdoor Preschool/Forest School
Further information
Course Commencement Date: 01/09/2026.
Registration Fee: €50 (non refundable, secures your place). This is the total course charge for this college year. Registration fee is non refundable, and secures course place. In addition to this fee, please note that specialist training costs, material costs, or professional fees may apply to some courses.
Students may apply for a grant through www.susi.ie Some students are eligible for places on VTOS courses or through the DSP through back to education allowance.
Applications are open. To apply please click on "Application Weblink" above.
Are you interested in pursuing a career in childcare and early years services? Throughout this Early Learning and Care course, you’ll gain valuable knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on experience that will prepare you to work with children aged 0-6 and promote their holistic development. This award also opens up opportunities for you to progress to the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care and further and Higher education and training.
Professional practice placement
Learners must complete 150 hours professional practice placement in a Tusla registered Early Learning and Care setting. You will be required to conduct this placement with two age groups: (1) working directly with children aged between 0- 2 years 8 months, and (2) working directly with children aged 2 years 8 months – 6 years.
Learners must be Garda vetted before going on professional practice placement.
Course Content:
• 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
Course features and facilities
• Use of specialised equipment and materials as required in an Early Learning Environment
• Workshops in the five main Montessori disciplines: Practical Life, Mathematics, Language, Sensorial and Cultural
• Practical Workshops in our national frameworks – Síolta and Aistear
• Interactive sessions using art, drama and music
• Practical demonstrations in care routines and use of early childhood materials
• Educational outings, field trips and guest speakers
The Stage 1 of the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care programme enables learners 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.
This award also provides the learner with the opportunity to transfer and progress into further and higher education and training, and to Stage Two of the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care.
**This programme leads to a new QQI award, the Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care 5M21473.
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
Dublin College Donaghmede Grange,
Head Office
Grange Abbey Road,
Donaghmede,
Dublin 13
Eircode: D13 NX25
tel: +353 1 8471422
General Enquiries
Grangeccadmin@ddletb.ie