- Code: HD
- Certification: QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care (5M21473)
- First Aid (BIFE)
- Manual Handling (BIFE)
- Child Protection (TUSLA)
- Duration: One Year
Description
Start your career as an Early Childhood Educator with BIFE. This course will provide you with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to work in a range of childcare and early years services for children aged 0-6 years. Successful learners are awarded a nationally and internationally recognised certificate in the theory and practice of Early Learning and Care. Learners who successfully complete this award can progress to the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care.
- Programme of Study
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- Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care
- Children’s Rights, Legislation and Regulation
- Holistic Care of Children 0-6 Years
- Early Childhood Growth and Development
- Curriculum, Play and Creative Studies
- Understanding and Assisting Children with Additional Needs
Professional Practice Placement in a Creche for children from birth to 2 years 8 months and for children from 2 years 8 months to 6 years.- 150 hours
- Entry Requirements
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One of the following:
- Leaving Certificate or its equivalent. Extenuating circumstances may be considered.
- Leaving Certificate Applied
- Full QQI Level 4 Award
- Mature Applicants - experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications
Additional Course requirements:
- Applicants whose first language is not English require proficiency at B2 in writing, reading, listening and speaking (CEFRL)
- 2 References
- Garda vetting is a requirement for this programme
- Police Clearance required where a person has lived in a Country other than Ireland for a period of longer than 6 consecutive Months.
- Career Opportunities
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- Early Childhood Practitioner /Educator in Pre-Schools & Crèches,
- Special needs assistants,
- Nanny/Au pair/Childminder
- Higher Education Progression*
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Examples of potential courses include:
BIFE:
- Advanced Special Needs Assistant (QQI Level 6)
DCU:
- Early Childhood Education (DC001)
Third level progression opportunities for ELC learners are continually being developed. Please visit www.cao.ie or careersportal.ie for the most up to date information.
*Places are not guaranteed in these Institutes and are subject to students meeting certain criteria. Please consult the individual college websites for more information on application. Information available also at www.cao.ie - Course Co-Ordinator
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Anne O'Malley
- Where are they now?
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Meet BIFE students who have graduated from this course...
"I started my studies at BIFE in Early Learning & Care. This course helped me gain the knowledge of pursuing a career in the Early Years sector and gaining the confidence to work with children of different ages. The modules I did throughout the course were very interesting and taught me skills that I can use in my daily practice, working with children. The teachers throughout the year were always so helpful, encouraging and caring. Through work placement I have broaden my skills and learned by working with children and carrying out different activities, observations and routines. Learning and working in an ECCE setting can be challenging at times but having gained knowledge from this course helped me see children develop and grow and is very rewarding" - Sophie Drumm
"I studied early learning and care level 5 at BIFE 2022/23 I really enjoyed my time in BIFE both academically and socially I felt that BIFE had a lot to offer. Academically, this course at BIFE provided me with a solid foundation of knowledge and practical skills in early childhood education. This course provided me with the knowledge and practical skills necessary when working with children aged 0-6 years. Socially, I met some amazing people who shared the same passion for working with children. We all worked together and helped each other when needed, not only were we friends in BIFE these friendships have continued on after graduating BIFE. The support services at BIFE were really helpful too, providing guidance and resources to ensure my success in the course. BIFE played a crucial role in my career development by providing me with the necessary qualifications and practical experience to work in the childcare Sector. I'm excited to continue working in the childcare industry and make a positive impact on the lives of children." - Aimee Fane