Higher Certificate in Childhood & Adolescent Care and Practice

Course details

This programme is innovative and we believe, the most comprehensive programme of its kind currently being offered in Ireland. The first year of this programme comprises the Certificate in Childhood Care & Practice, wherein students will study key elements of childhood care and practice including developmental psychology, ethical issues and dedicated modules on theoretical and practical elements of childhood care and practice.

In year 2, students learn about adolescent care and practice while developing further expertise in childhood care and practice, including key components in developmental psychology, sociology and the theory and practice of adolescent care.

In both years of the programme, students will undertake 100 hours of supervised practice, giving them the opportunity to apply their knowledge practically

The part-time option for these programmes utilises blended learning, a concept that combines the best of traditional face-to-face learning with online learning approaches that allow students to complete some modules from your own home using innovative and easy-to-use virtual learning techniques such as narrated downloadable lectures, online discussion, live interactive lecture broadcasts, revision quizzes and access to comprehensive notes and readings.

Eligibility

All applicants must be 18 years of age at the time of commencing the programme.

This programme requires learners to participate in practice placements that will bring them into contact with individuals who have potential vulnerability and in which they will be required to assume a position of trust. In the interest of public trust and confidence, procedures are in place to ensure that only applicants who can demonstrate suitable motivation and characteristics are eligible for selection or progression.

Garda Vetting: Offers of places will be made subject to completion of a satisfactory Garda vetting procedure.

Leaving Certificate Applicants/Under 23 Years of Age:


• Applicants must have a minimum of 250 points. A minimum of grade
• D in at least five subjects in the Leaving Certificate examination, including Mathematics and a language, is also required.

FETAC Award Applicants:

• Candidates holding a relevant FETAC Major Award at Level 5 on the
• National Framework of Qualifications may be eligible for entry to the programme. Such candidates must apply through the CAO system.

Mature Applicants:

Candidates over the age of 23 will be considered as mature applicants. Such candidates should complete the application form above and return it to the Office of Student Services and Academic Administration. Eligible applicants will be invited to attend for interview and may be required to provide additional information e.g. personal reference.

Application processes for Direct Entry Students:

Applicants who apply directly to the College should complete the application form [INSERT LINK TO APPLICATION FORM HERE] and return it directly to the Office of Academic Administration and Student Services. Eligible applicants will be invited to attend for interview and may be required to provide additional information to enable the college to assess eligibility e.g. work history, personal reference, etc.

Recognised and Accredited Prior Learning:

If you are currently working in a childcare setting you may apply for exemptions under our RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) processes. This may allow you exemptions from modules and indeed for those who currently possess a level 6 qualification in a childcare related discipline RPL applicants will be considered for access into year 2 of the Degree in Child and Adolescent Studies Level 8.

All applicants are expected to be fluent and competent in both written and spoken English. In the case of overseas applications students will have to provide certification of competency in English indicating a minimum score of 6.0 IELTS.

Assessment

Programme assessment methods have been designed to afford students the opportunity to demonstrate their academic and reflective learning in different ways. The programmes accommodate different learning styles and therefore requires learners to engage with a range of practical assignments, essays, learning journals, examinations, reflective exercises, and projects.