Advanced Certificate in Early Learning & Care Stage 2

Advanced Certificate in Early Learning & Care Stage 2

Advanced Certificate in Early Learning & Care Stage 2

Course Code 6M21471

Aim
Stage 2 will award a Level 6 in ELC

The aim of this one year full-time programme is to enable the learner to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies required to work as an autonomous practitioner in an ELC setting and/or take responsibility for an area or room and co-ordinating the provision of a quality early learning and care environment.



Entry requirements

Learners who wish to progress to Stage 2 of the programme must provide evidence of completion of Stage 1. Advanced entry into Stage 2 is possible where the learner has achieved a Level 5 certificate within the last 5 years. Other options for advanced entry may be available. Learners will be also be required to complete Garda vetting.

Course Duration

1 year (September - May). Monday - Friday with usual school holidays.


Course Content

  • Curriculum and Pedagogy
  • Inclusive Early Learning and Care
  • The Developing Child
  • Supervision and Administration
  • Sociology and Social Policy
  • Advanced Professional Practice Placement


Training will also be provided in Paediatric First Aid, Lámh sign language and Manual Handling (by outside agencies).

Professional Practice Placement
All learners must complete 150 hours of professional practice placement, working with 2 age groups:
* 0-2 years 8 months
* 2 years 8 months - 6 years

Career Opportunities
There are employment opportunities for graduates of the programme as Early Years Assistants with opportunities to progress to Room Leader in a range of ELC settings both private and community based.


Certification

Successful completion of the course will lead to a Stage 2 Certificate (QQI Level 6)

Educational progression

Graduates of this programme who wish to continue their studies may progress to Higher Education colleges and universities. Some examples include:

  • Early Childhood Teaching and Learning BA Level 8 University of Maynooth
  • Early Childhood Care and Education BA Level 8 Technical University Dublin
  • Early Childhood Care and Education & Practice B.Ed Level 7/8 SETU Carlow


​For more details of progression options please see www.cao.ie

How to Apply:

  • Applications now open
  • You can apply online using the following link


Candidates will be interviewed in May and August and applicants will be contacted by email or phone.

May 20
2026
PLC Graduation
May 20
2026
TY Graduation
May 21
2026
6th Year Graduation
May 25
2026
School Awards
11-May-2026
Wider Options is a one year PLC course. For more information, see the photo below
29-Jan-2026
The mock exams will begin for Leaving Certificate students on Tuesday, 3rd February; for 3rd Year students on Thursday, 5th February; and for LCA 6 students on Tuesday, 10th February. All timetables are available at the links below.
Station road, Newbridge, Co. Kildare.
045 431 417
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Location
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