Early Learning & Care - Stage 1

The Certificate in Early Learning and Care is the new standard for childcare education in Ireland. This one-year, full-time course prepares learners to work with young children aged 0-6 years. It is ideal for both school leavers and experienced mature persons seeking a formal qualification.

Applicants should be of Leaving Certificate Standard or have achieved an Applied Leaving Certificate with Distinction. Portlaoise Institute welcomes applications from mature students. Mature students are assessed on their merits and may not require the above qualification. Where English is not their first language, applicants for this course must also meet the minimum English language and literacy competency. The minimum standard of English required for this programme is the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, Level B2 in writing, reading, listening and speaking. Evidence of achievement of this standard is necessary for entry to the programme