This two-year Early Learning and Care programme will provide learners with the knowledge skills and competencies associated with the practical, social and legal aspects of the early learning and care profession. Learners who wish to exit the award at stage 1 will be awarded the embedded award QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care 5M21473. As part of the early learning and care programme, learners undertake extensive professional practice placement (150 hours) in at least two early learning and care settings at both stage 1 and stage 2. 

The ELC settings 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. All early learning and care settings in Ireland require their employees to have a QQI level 5 early learning and care qualification, as a minimum, in line with the legislative requirements for the sector. This qualification allows you to work in a variety of early learning and care settings. NB – It is important to note that the six 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 the 6 mandatory programme modules.