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This new, two-year programme will provide students with the knowledge skills and competencies to work in a Special Needs Assisting role with children and in a variety of other roles within the childcare early learning and care sector.
Childcare - Special Needs Assisting
To be confirmed
Course Fees
€710
As part of the childcare course, students undertake extensive professional practice work experience placement (150 hours) in at least two early learning and care settings including settings to include those which cater for children from birth to 2 years 8 months and those which cater for children from 2 years 8 months to 6 years. Students will receive training in the basic practical skills and develop knowledge and understanding of the role of the special needs assistant in creches, playschools, primary schools, etc. All early learning and care settings in Ireland require their employees to have a QQI level 5 early learning and carequalification, as a minimum, in line with legislative requirements for the sector.
About This Course
Course Content
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate or Leaving Certificate Applied or LCVP or QQI Level 4 Award. Equal consideration will be given to mature applicants (those aged over 23) who do not meet these entry requirements.)
Applicants whose first language is not English require proficiency at B2 standard on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level.
Further Study
At Cavan Institute:
Upon successful completion of Stage 1 of this programme, students can progress to Stage 2, the level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care.
Elsewhere:
Graduates are eligible to apply through the CAO and/or Higher Education Links Scheme for entry to a range of higher certificate and degree programmes at Institutes of Technology and Universities (please check with the particular Institution regarding local eligibility requirements).
Career Opportunities
This Childcare - Special Needs Assisting course will give students a firm foundation in the qualities and skills required for employment as a early learning and care worker in creches and playschools and as a classroom assistant in a special national school.
Certification
QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care will be awarded to graduates upon successful completion of year 2 of this programme. Students who wish to exit the award at the end of year 1 will be awarded the embedded award QQI Level 5 Certificated in Early Learning and Care upon successful completion of stage 1 of the programme.
Award Code to be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care will be awarded to graduates upon successful completion of year 2 of this programme. Students who wish to exit the award at the end of year 1 will be awarded the embedded award QQI Level 5 Certificated in Early Learning and Care upon successful completion of stage 1 of the programme.
Award Code to be confirmed
Stage 1 -embedded Level 5 certificate on successful completion of year 1
Professional Practice Placements in Early Learning and Care
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)
Stage 2 - advanced certificate upon successful completion of year 2
Advanced Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care
Sociology and Social Policy in Early Learning and Care
The Developing Child
Curriculum and Pedagogy
Inclusive Early Learning and Care
Supervision and Administration Skills in Early Learning and Care
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