Certificate in Early Learning and Care QQI Level 5

Course Details
The newly approved QQI level 5 Major award in Early Learning and Care qualification will give you the recognised national qualification for starting a career working in Early Childhood Care and Education.

Overview
The focus of the Certificate in Early Learning and Care programme is the study of play, development and learning of the young child in historical and socio-cultural context and the implications of this in the ELC settings. A range of local and international perspectives are taken, including children’s rights, children’s health and well-being, pedagogical and curriculum approaches, diversity, and inclusion.

This Early Learning and Care programme explores a range of disciplines such as psychology, sociology and social policy, education, and health. The knowledge, skills and competencies taught, will prepare you to work independently subject to supervision across a range of ELC settings.
You will have the opportunity to undertake supervised placement modules to develop your professional as well as academic skills and knowledge which will enable you to pursue a career in the ELC sector and access additional formal education training.

This Certificate in Early Learning and Care is embedded into the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care (QQI level 6) and successful completion of all modules at Stage 1 will lead to direct entry to Stage 2 of the programme.
This course is delivered through blended learning which means that you will also have the opportunity to complete a work experience placement in an early years setting to compliment your studies. Learners are required to complete a total of 150 hours of work experience. There is an easy payment plan designed to make this programme affordable. These factors, together with the one-to-one tutorial support, offer you a course that is accessible, affordable and achievable.

Why should I study this course?
This programme will qualify you to work in the Early Learning and Care sector and avail of the opportunities it opens to pursue careers in organisations/professions providing services for children and families. The demand for Portobello Institute Early Childhood Care and Education programmes has been particularly strong, and the institute has accumulated a lot of experience in supporting learners who are combining study and work and providing flexible opportunities for learners to gain qualifications from level 5 up to level 9 on the NFQ.

Our programmes ensure that you will be supported and gain transferrable skills such as use of digital technology, oral and written communication, and presentation skills, which you can apply both in your professional career and in current and further learning.