Course Summary
Course Category: PLC (Further Education - FET) Apply directly to College
This is a comprehensive foundation program designed for individuals looking to launch a professional career in early childhood education. This course introduces learners to the core theories and practical applications essential for working in modern childcare environments. It serves as an ideal entry point for those re-skilling, up-skilling, or seeking a gateway to higher university education.
Delivered over one year (with the option to progress to a second year), this program provides the exact knowledge and competencies required to work effectively both independently and under supervision. Because hands-on placement is integral to the curriculum, all students undergo mandatory Garda Vetting at registration. This ensures compliance and readiness to work directly in professional environments like community crèches, playgroups, and Montessori educational organizations.<
Course Details
What will you study?
Progression to CAO Courses
Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS)
This course leads to a QQI Major Award, and provides progression opportunities to a number of Higher Education courses, including those in the CAO.
To view CAO courses to which any Major Award (including this one) provides a possible Progression route, click below:
| CAO with Any QQI Major Award |
| Old FETAC Code | New QQI Code |
| 5M21473 |
To calculate Points based on your QQI award results, use the PLC Points Calculator.
The Student - Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Further Research
DISCLAIMER: These links are to official sources of information for this course - we accept no responsibility for the information on them.
Career Progression
Students who successfully complete the course may gain employment in a wide variety of organisations such as community childcare, Montessori and crèches.
College Profile
