Early Learning and Care with Special Needs Assisting

QQI Level 5

Course Code

Major Award Code

5M21473

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About This Course

The Early Learning Care with Special Needs Assisting course equips the student with the knowledge, experience and practical skills necessary to work in a range of childcare and early years services, promoting and supporting the holistic needs of children 0-6 years. This award also provides the student with the opportunity to progress into the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care and into higher education and training.

Students must complete 150 hours of professional practice placement in a minimum of two Tusla-approved settings: (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.

Students who are registered on the ELC programmes who undertake placements relating to children will require National Garda Vetting and Police Vetting if applicable.

NB – It is important to note that the six mandatory programme modules are not accredited awards in their own right. The level 5 QQI certificate in Early Learning and Care will be awarded on successful completion of all the 6 mandatory programme modules. The Level 5 QQI Component award 5N1786 in Special Needs Assisting will be awarded on successful completion of the module Special Needs Assisting.

Modules

Course Content

Stage 1 -QQI Level 5 ELC 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)
Special Needs Assisting 5N1786 (Elective)

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

Progression

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 the B2 standard on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) level.

Students who are registered on the ELC programmes and undertake placement relating to children will require National Garda Vetting and Police Vetting if applicable.

Course Fees

At Cavan Institute, we believe that quality education should be within everyone’s reach. That’s why our courses continue to be offered at a simple, affordable fee of just €200.

To support student access to facilities and a wide range of campus services, an additional €50 student services charge applies, bringing the total amount payable by students to €250. This contribution helps ensure students can benefit from essential supports and resources throughout their time at the Institute.
Overall, we’re proud to offer a diverse range of courses at a price that remains significantly lower than that of many other colleges.

Do you have a Medical Card?

A valid medical card will exempt you from the €50 QQI exam fee, where applicable, reducing the total amount payable to €200.