Certificate in Early Learning and Care (Stage 1)
Course Description:
The Certificate in Early Learning and Care is the new standard for childcare education in Ireland. This one-year, full-time course prepares learners to work with young children aged 0-6 years. It is ideal for both school leavers and experienced mature persons seeking a formal qualification. The course content is a balance of theory and hands-on, practical skills, providing the
learner with the knowledge and skills needed for the care, wellbeing, safety and health of children aged 0 – 6 in the Early Learning and Care setting. Learners will be equipped to work successfully in a variety of childcare environments and will have with a thorough understanding of their role as an Early Learning and Care professional.
Course Details:
- Full Time
- 1 Year, September to May
- 5M21473 – Early Learning and Care (QQI Level 5)
- Contact: fhoran@loetb.ie
• 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 yrs).
Applicants should be of Leaving Certificate Standard or have achieved an Applied Leaving Certificate with Distinction. Portlaoise Institute welcomes applications from mature students. Mature students are assessed on their merits and may not require the above qualification. Where English is not their first language, applicants for this course must also meet the minimum English language and literacy competency. The minimum standard of English required for this programme is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, Level B2 in writing, reading, listening and speaking. Evidence of achievement of this standard is necessary for
entry to the programme
This course will take place in the Abbeyleix Road Campus R32 F5T6
€50 Certification Fee. Medical Card holders or those in receipt of a social welfare payment are exempt from this fee
This course is recognised as a QQI progression route into a range of courses in higher education including, but not limited, to the following. Please note, some courses may have additional entry requirements.
South East Technological University (SETU) Carlow:
• SE913 Early Childhood Education and Practice (Level 8)
• SE918 Social Care Practice (Level 8)
Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) Athlone
• US780 Early Years Care and Education (Level 7)
• US782 Applied Social Studies in Social Care (Level 7)
Maynooth University
• MH107 Social Science (Level 8)
• MH003 Early Childhood – Teaching and Learning (Level 8)
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Letterkenny
• AU310 Law (Level 8)
• Dublin City University (DCU)
• DC235 Education and Training (Level
Successful learners will have the skills and qualifications to work in a variety of childcare settings including:
• Crèches
• Nurseries
• Playgroups
• Play Assistants in Hospitals
Commencing September 2025
Student Testimonial
