Programme Aim
This one-year course is designed for learners wishing to pursue a career in Early Childhood Learning and Care. In a supportive classroom environment our learners in North Connaught College of Further Education, Tubbercurry, Sligo become familiar with the skills and competencies essential for working in the early childcare sector. They also study developmental theories as they apply to early childhood and experience opportunities to express their own creative abilities in a nurturing learning environment.
The overall aim of the programme is to provide the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to work independently and under supervision in a range of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) settings and/or to progress to higher education and training.
Students will gain knowledge in:
- Children’s Rights, Legislation and Regulation
- Early Childhood Growth and Development
- Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies
- Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
- Holistic Care of Children (Birth to six years).
Professional practice placement (work experience) is also a core feature of the Early Learning and Care programme with students spending time in a childcare setting, enhancing employability.
Programme Progression
On completion of the course some of the options available are:
- Work as a childcare assistant in a variety of ECCE settings
- Complete the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care in North Connaught College and go on to work in a supervisory capacity in a variety of ECCE settings or open their own childcare business
- Progress to third level education
- Progression to ATU Sligo St. Angela’s – Access to Post-Primary Teaching (APT) Project (Home Economics teaching)
- Pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education (with the option of progressing to Primary School Teaching, Montessori Teaching or Special Needs Teaching)
- Specialise in Special Needs Education and pursue a career as a Special Needs Assistant or a Special Education Needs Teacher.
Entry requirements
- Leaving Certificate, including Leaving Certificate Applied, or equivalent qualifications at NFQ level 4.
- Where learners do not have Leaving Certificate or equivalent qualifications at NFQ Level 4, learners will be facilitated to demonstrate their readiness to participate on the programme via an interview and a short piece of writing.
- English language – minimum English language and literacy competence at entry to the programme for speakers of English as a second language is Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, B2 in writing, reading, listening and speaking. Evidence of achievement of this standard is necessary for entry to the programme.
- Prospective learners will be expected to demonstrate:
- a desire to work in the early learning and care sector,
- the ability to act with responsibility and autonomy, and
- the ability to take responsibility for their own learning while under supervision.
Course Content
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Further Details
Below is a more detailed description of each module
Children’s Rights, Legislation and Regulation
The purpose of this module is to introduce learners to children’s rights, essential legislation, regulations and frameworks, enabling learners to work effectively under direction with children, their families and all stakeholders within a range of ELC settings.
Early Childhood Growth and Development
This module examines the theories of growth and development in early childhood and explores how they are applied in a childcare setting. Learners also explore factors impacting on the holistic development of the child and the role of the adult in promoting development and learning.
Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies
This module examines education and learning during early childhood. Learners will explore and engage with a variety of curricular approaches, through mediums of play and creative opportunities, encompassing diversity, identity and cultural contexts.
Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
Within this area, the learner will study a variety of additional needs and explore skills and strategies to promote an inclusive and accessible environment within the early years setting in line with best practice guidelines.
Holistic Care of Children (Birth to Six Years)
The aim is to provide the learner with knowledge, skills and competence required for the holistic care, wellbeing, safety and health of babies, toddlers and young people in the ELC setting.
Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care
This module includes preparation for professional practice placement along with the placement (work experience) itself. Communication and teamwork along with an introduction to writing, research and document production skills and reflective practice will be taught.
