This course aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills and understanding necessary to pursue a career in Childcare and related environments.  It also prepares students to work with young children in a variety of childcare settings.  It is suitable for both school leavers and for mature students seeking a formal qualification.

Course Content:

• Caring for Children
• Child Development
• Communications
• Early Childhood Education
• Caring for Children with Special Needs
• Word Processing
• Work Experience
• Art & Craft for Childcare
• Occupational First Aid

Note: The variety of subjects offered my vary slightly from year to year.

Examinations:  

• Students may take examinations with FETAC.

• Current FETAC Examination fees:

  Component Certificate (one module)	€10
  Component Certificate (two modules)	€20
  Component Certificate (three modules)	€25
  Component Certificate (four modules)	€30
  Component Certificate (five modules or more)	€50
  Major Awards/Full Certificates	€50

Course Fees: 

• The school  charges a non-refundable registration fee of €25 per course. This will only be refunded in the event of a course not going ahead.
• Studens wishing to undertake the Occupational First Aid module will be charged a small fee.
• Students are also charged a mimimal fee for photocopying/materials at the beginning of the school year.  Students will be informed of this fee on commencement of their courses.

Certification:

FETAC Level 5 Certificate in Childcare - DCHSC

Grants:  

• Students may be eligible for P.L.C. grants.
• Students may apply to Co. Carlow VEC for details of financial supports available - 059-9721335 or visit www.carlowvec.ie 

Career Opportunities:

A professional qualification in Childcare is now a prerequisite to working in the ever-expanding childcare area.  Students who qualify in this area can pursue a career in the following areas: assistants in crèches and nurseries, Special Needs Assistants, pre-school and playschools, au pairing etc.

Further Studies:

Students may progress to Institutes of Technology and pursue further education in the childcare area through the FETAC Higher Education Links Scheme.

Garda Vetting:

Garda Vetting is a requirement on programmes where students have access to children/vulnerable adults.  Prior to attending work experience, students must be vetted by the Gardai.  Students will be issued wish Garda Vetting forms on commencement of their course.

For further details and Application Forms contact:

Course Co-ordinator: Christina Trehy.

Phone No: 059-9721335