Full time programme, one academic year - Early Childhood Care and Education for Childcare Workers FETAC Level 5 DCHSC

The Certificate in Childcare course offers a comprehensive preparation for a career in childcare, whether working in a day care nursery, crèche, pre-school / after school facility or with families as a professional nanny. Also subject to certain specific requirements this course can be used  through the CAO to apply for a third level degree course in a related discipline. In the past the College has had a number of Learners who have successfully progressed onto degree courses.

Excellence in lecturing and a strong commitment to childcare is the hallmark of The College of Progressive Education. Experienced, highly qualified lecturers renowned for their enthusiasm and commitment provide quality tuition for our learners. Our lecturers are also chosen for their ability to inspire, motivate and encourage. In addition our Full Time course has a programme coordinator who looks after  the needs and welfare of the learners.

Course Structure

This full-time day course is delivered over one academic year. The course syllabus is outlined below. In addition to lecture room tuition the course includes work experience every alternate week in a variety of childcare facilities.

The course co-ordinator will help learners with all aspects of the course, including work placements and written assignments, as well as personal welfare, accommodation and career development

A variety of methods and approaches will be used, including:

• Practical demonstrations
• Oral presentations
• Individual tutorial support
• Assignments and projects
• Work experience
• Discussions and debates
• Role play
• Guest speakers
• Workshops Field trips Lectures Examinations

LEARNER SUPPORT AND WELFARE

A characteristic of the College is the individual and supportive attention given to our learners. Developing a personal relationship with each individual learner allows us to offer support in areas where is it required.

We recognise that learners from outside Ireland who enrol on this full-time course may need extra help and support.

It is important to note that a proficiency in conversational and written English is required to take part in the course. The welcome and support given to learners by tutors and fellow learners will ensure that everybody feels especially welcome and part of our enthusiastic and motivated group of learners. Confidential counselling will be provided to help learners with any personal problems they may experience; the College also has contacts with outside agencies that can provide professional help and support if required.

APPLYING FOR A PLACE

Learners should complete an application form and return it to the College with:

• Four passport-size photos
• A letter explaining why you are interested in the course and outlining your qualifications and relevant experience
• In the case of international learners a copy of your passport should also be included, together with details of your current visa status and results of English language tests where relevant

On receipt of your application the College will review your information and contact you to arrange a suitable time for interview. The College with conduct an in-depth interview by telephone with applicants from overseas.


FEES

Fees cover the cost of tuition for one academic year, course materials, textbook and examination fees. Please note the Special Needs Assistant course  attracts a seperate fee which is substantially discounted for full time learners. Please contact the office for details. There are no other hidden costs.

Course Syllabus

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 Art and Craft for Childcare Occupational First Aid Additional Modules A Positive Approach to Children's Behaviour (0-7 years) Optional Modules Special Needs Assistant Training Special Needs Assistant

Qualifications

Successful graduates will be awarded the following: Internationally recognised FETAC Level 5 Certificate in Childcare (Major Award DCHSC) Certificate in Paediatric Moving and Handling Certificate in Occupational First Aid Certificate in A positive Approach to Children's Behaviour Optional Special Needs Assistant: Full-time learners, who have excellent English language skills, may enrol on the Certificate in Special Needs Assistant Training and the Diploma in Special Needs Assistant programme for a small additional fee. Please contact the office for details.

Who should participate in this course?

Learners who are looking to pursue a career in Childcare.  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.

General Aims

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

Entry Requirements

Candidates are selected primarily on interview and written assessment. 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.

Work Experience

External work experience is a vital part of any training course. Learners experience a wide variety of placements in carefully selected childcare facilities arranged by the College, where they are welcomed as part of the childcare team. Learners are carefully guided and mentored until they gain in knowledge and confidence; this enables them to relate theory to practice and vice versa. The course Coordinator visits the work placements regularly to facilitate the learners’ ongoing training. Practical placements include: Crèches and day nurseries Playgroups After school facilities

Assessment Method

Combination of portfolio, assignments, skills demonstrations and exams.

Further Studies

Bachelor or Honours Degree in Early Childhood Education in a Third Level College in Ireland. Studies in the Montessori Method of Education six FETAC Level 6 Component Certificates Creche Management - FETAC Level 6 BMANX  Advanced Certificate in Supervision in Childcare FETAC Level 6 Major Award DCXXX

Career Options

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.

Duration

One Academic year Normally early September to end May.

website: http://progressivecollege.com