Aine Smith from Cootehill, Co. Cavan studied year 1 and year 2 of the Childcare course in Cavan Institute and progressed to study BA Hons Degree in Dundalk Institute of Technology.

"When I completed my leaving certificate I had no idea what I wanted to do. So, I opted to do a year in Cavan Institute in Childcare, this then progressed on to two years. The modules covered were excellent if you wanted to gain an insight into the early childhood sector in particular, child development and early childhood curriculum these elements were interesting but also are fundamental in the work place today. Each of the modules covered in the course give you the basis and confidence to go on to work in the sector but equally to progress in your studies. I developed skills in assignment presentation but equally in time management and meeting deadlines.

The variety and consistency of work placements allowed us, as students, in Cavan Institute to get a taste of what it is like to work in the early years sector. I attended placement in Halle, in Germany as part of my studies with Cavan Institute, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity. This experience allowed me to get a flavour of what it is like to work in the early years sector in an international placement. It allowed me to broaden my horizon as to the various job opportunities there are abroad.

This childcare course at Cavan Institute really emphasises the importance of early year’s educators to have a good knowledge of child development, but also to provide children with rich learning experiences. As a student you are encouraged to share any thoughts and ideas in relation to each module and this is extremely important as it also broadens your knowledge.

It is true to say that I would not have gone on to complete my BA Hons Degree in Dundalk Institute of Technology only for the supportive tutors that I had in Cavan Institute. I am currently working full time as a preschool leader in a prestigious early years' service in Cavan. As the early years sector continues to strive towards quality provision, it is essential to have quality trained staff. At present I am engaging in continual professional development in a Leadership for Inclusion programme (LINC Programme) which is designed to facilitate early years’ educators to promote the inclusion of children with additional needs."