Am I ready for this course:

You are ready for this course is you can answer yes to the following questions:

1. Do you have full Leaving Certificate, QQI Level 4 Certificate or equivalent qualification?

2. Are you happy to participate in the Garda Vetting procedure?

3. Do you have basic computer skills such as basic word processing, Internet or email?

4. Do you like working with people and children, and work well with others?

5. Are you free to attend all timetabled classes for the duration of the programme?

6. Are you happy to participate in the work experience aspects of the programme. (150 hrs, 2 settings( 0-2 years 8 months years & 2 years 8 months to 6 years old.)?

7. Do you have access to a computer and the Internet to study?

8. Do you have good spoken and written English language skills (B2 equivalency in CEFR in ready, writing, listening and speaking.)

1                    Full-time eligibility requirements

This is a fully funded programme and as such eligibility requirements apply.

Applicants must be aged 21 and be in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for a minimum of six months.

Qualifying social welfare payments include the following:

• Jobseekers Benefit

• Jobseekers Allowance

• One-Parent Family

• Disability Allowance/Illness

• Benefit/Invalidity Pension.

• Farm Assist

• or Signing for credits for at least six months or be a dependent spouse of an eligible person for at least six months

• or have refugee /protected status.

• or be a recent Youthreach completer

• or have recently been made redundant.

Periods spent on a FAS training course, Community Employment Scheme, Job Initiative, and TUS can count towards the six-month qualifying period.

2                    Part-time eligibility requirements

If you wish to study part of the course, but not attend on a full time basis you may be able to attend, as a BTEI or Skills to Advance Student.

Back to Education Initiative (BTEI) eligible participants include those who are in receipt of a social welfare payment, early school leavers and those who have a low income (medical card holders).

Skills to Advance: Early school leavers who work in sectors of the economy subject to volatility or uncertainty, can also access all FET programmes.

Successful completion of this course will lead to a Major QQI Level 5 award in Certificate in Early Learning and Care

Curriculum Structure (120 FET Credits)

• Professional Practice Placement in Early Learning and Care

• Children's Right, 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 Years)

• Professional ICT Skills

How will this qualification help me?

Employment Opportunities: All staff working directly with children in the Childhood Care Sector must hold a minimum of QQI Level 5 Major Certificate in Early Learning and Care Early Learning.

Further Study: Graduates of the Level 5 programme can progress to the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care at QQI Level 6 of the National Framework of Qualifications.

All ECCE Room Leaders must hold the Level 6 Qualification.

Higher Education: This award will allow graduates to progress from their advanced certificate straight to honours degree level that recognises the value of the professionals at all levels working in the ELC settings across the country.

How to apply

You can make an application in any of the following ways;

1. Contacting the VTOS Co-ordinator, Una Burke Phone: 059 863 2044 Ext 2, Mobile: 087-978 7727. Email: vtosathy@kwetb.ie  

1. Visiting the centre and completing an application form.

2. Making a full online application through www.fetchcourse.ie

3. By submitting your details to our contact page

Once an application has been received, students are invited to interview, they may also be asked to complete an initial assessment.