Education Options

FURTHER EDUCATION

Level 5 / Level 6

This course/programme prepares students to work with young children aged 0 – 6 in a variety of childcare settings. The award will provide participants with skills, knowledge and competence to work as a childcare professional within the childcare and early education sector.

Changes to Childcare Qualifications

The Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care (Level 6) and Certificate in Early Learning and Care (Level 5) replaced the Level 6 and Level 5 Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) award from August 2023. The ECCE awards at Level 5 and 6 will still be recognised qualifications for childcare by the Department of Children, Equality, Diversity, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY).

The graphic below details the deactivation timeline for the ECCE award.

CE Scheme

Since 2013 there is a CE Childcare Training and Development Programme for CE participants who wish to pursue a career in childcare.  It is a 3-year programme of formal learning and work experience leading to an NFQ Level 5 or 6 qualification in early childhood care and education.

Carlow Early Years Training Scheme can be contacted on 059-9134996.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Level 7

From September 2022, the level 7 is a three-year programme. This part time programme is designed for practitioners or those working in the sector who wish to upskill.

This programme will run two evenings per week and approximately 6 Saturdays during the academic year.

Level 8

IT Carlow also offer a BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education & Care and a Higher Diploma of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Care.

The overall aim of the programme is to provide students with the knowledge, understanding and competencies required to provide care and education for young children (0-6 years) in a range of Early Years Settings. The general aim is to develop early childhood professionals who have a specific expertise and a specialised knowledge base, competent to deliver and manage quality services to children and families. 

Level 9

IT Carlow also offer a Masters of Arts in Leadership in Early Years Education and Care.

This programme will prepare students and current practitioners for leadership and management roles in the operation of early childhood education services and related public policy.