Early Childhood Care & Education

Course details

To provide students with an understanding of the principles of childhood development and to familiarise students with the skills required to pursue a career in childcare. The course will also give students an insight into the range of employment opportunities in the health service/special needs sector.

Modules

• Child Development - (5N1764): The module aims to provide the student with an introduction to the theory and practice of child development from 6years. To identify and respond appropriately to childrens developmental needs in the home and in the early years setting. The component aims to promote good practice, equality of opportunity and respect for diversity in lifestyles, religion and culture in the early years.
• Child Health & Well Being - (5N1765): The aim of this module is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to provide for the health and well-being of children to maintain healthy, hygienic and safe practices and environments in a range of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) settings. (FETAC)
• Communications - (5N0690): This programme module aims to facilitate the learner to develop the academic, vocational & personal language, literacy and/or numeracy skills related to Communications. It will assist the learner in understanding the use of modern information and communications technology integrated with the role played by communications and relevant legislation in human interaction.
• Creative Arts for Early Child - (5N1769): This programme aims to equip the student with the knowledge, skill and competence to ensure that each childs learning, development, and well-being is facilitated through the provision of creative opportunities. To test open ended materials and natural items for creative arts in both outdoor and indoor environments ,which promote the holistic development of the child.
• Early Care and Education Practice - (5N1770): This programme aims to equip the student with knowledge, skills and competence in Early Childhood Care and Education practice. To familiarise the student with the historical development of the ECCE sector in Ireland, the relevant legislation and policies pertaining to a quality ECCE environment. To understand the importance of effective communication with families, of self-awareness, personal reflection, and reflective practice in relation to working in an ECCE setting.
• Early Childhood Education and Play - (5N1773): This module aims to equip the student with the knowledge, skill, and competence to ensure that each childs learning, development and well being is facilitated through the provision of play opportunities, experiences, activities, interaction , materials and equipment. Having regard to the age and stage of development of the child and the childs cultural context.
• Occupational First Aid - (5N1207): Basic First aid, CPR and AED training included.
• School Age Childcare - (5N1769): This programme aims to equip the student with the knowledge, skill and competence to implement and evaluate an afterschool programme. To enable the student to reflect on the role and responsibilities of those providing an afterschool programme.
• Work Experience - (5N1356): This programme module aims to provide a Learner with the personal knowledge, skills and capacity to participate in a suitable work placement under supervision for a limited time. It will also facilitate the learner to develop an understanding of the world of work and employment, Including the rights and responsibilities of both employer and employee

Course Info

Work experience takes place one day per week throughout the academic year. Students have a practical opportunity here to apply theory, knowledge and interpersonal skills in a variety of childcare and educational settings.

Special Features

Course directed by professional and qualified tutors who are credited with a wealth of practical experience. Preparation for employment in a wide variety of settings including schools (special, pre-school and crèches), day-care, residential care, and after school programmes.

Entry Requirements

FETAC Level 4, minimum of 17 years of age at time of registration, Leaving Certificate/Leaving Certificate Applied, Equivalent qualifications from other countries, relevant life experiences, relevant work experiences and mature students.