The course is designed around 8 FETAC Level 5 Modules which make up a Major Award in Childcare. The FETAC code for this Major Award is DCHSC. You can see the syllabus for each module by clicking on their title below

• Mandatory Modules
  • Caring for Children (0-6 years)
  • Working in Childcare
  • Child Development
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Communications
  • Work Experience
• Elective Modules
  • Social Studies
  • Safety and Health at Work
    

Successful graduates will be awarded the following:

Internationally recognised FETAC Level 5 Certificate in Childcare (Major Award DCHSC)

Learners who are looking to pursue a career in Childcare or who are already working in the childcare sector and do not have a formal qualification. 

It is anticipated in the sector that this will be the minimum qualification for childcare workers.

Learners wishing to gain additional points for their CAO entry onto a degree course.

The course aims to prepare learners for a career both here in Ireland and abroad by:

• Facilitating an understanding of the needs of all children in relation to physical, emotional, social, language, intellectual, and creative development
• Developing communication, intellectual, practical and caring skills to respond effectively and with empathy to the needs of children
• Creating an understanding of current and emerging legislation that applies to the care of children
• Teaching an appreciation of children’s relationships within the family
• Raising awareness of the need for personal and professional development while working with children and their families

In general, applicants should have completed Ordinary Level Leaving Certificate or Leaving Certificate Applied, preferably with 3 Passes.

International learners undertaking this course should have confidence in their English skills and have at least 5 IELTS score or equivalent.

The final assessment will be influenced by the applicant’s suitability for a career in childcare.

External work experience is a vital part of any training course. Learners must arrange to complete at least 50 hours work experience, ideally learners will already be working in a childcare facility.

Practical placements include:

• Crèches and day nurseries
• Playgroups
• After school facilities

Combination of portfolio, assignments, skills demonstrations and exams.

The demand for qualified childcare professionals has increased significantly in recent years. With this demand there is the expectation that childcare workers are trained to the highest standard in the practical, social and legal aspects of the profession.

During the course learners will be advised on interview techniques. Confidence building, goal setting motivation and personal presentation will also be discussed.

Graduates from this one-year course will have a variety of career options available to them on completion of the course.

The following are some of the areas of greatest demand:
• Crèche / day nursery /playgroup
• Childcare professional or nanny at home or abroad
• After school care programmes
• Home-based childcare
• Childcare assistant in hospitals for sick children (classroom or playroom)

See Special Needs Assistant Training modules for additional career opportunities.

DAY NURSERY / CRÈCHE OPPORTUNITIES
The College of Progressive Education has strong links with many Dublin nurseries / crèches and with the National Children’s Nurseries Association. Nursery managers are frequently in contact with our college and where nursery vacancies occur, places are offered to suitable candidates.

Degree in Early Childhood Education in a Third Level College in Ireland.

Advanced Certificate in the Montessori Method of Education FETAC Level 6

Advanced Certificate in Creche Management - FETAC Level 6 BMANX

Advanced Certificate in Supervision in Childcare FETAC Level 6 Major Award DCXXX