The level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care is designed to meet ELC standards and is guided by the principles of First5.
The course enhances your understanding of young children’s play, development, and learning in various contexts. It incorporates local and international perspectives on children’s rights, health, well-being, and diverse pedagogical approaches.
A key feature is the opportunity for you to choose from a number of elective modules;
This choice allows you to tailor your qualification to your area of interest.
This qualification meets legislative requirements for working in early years settings. There is a strong demand for qualified ELC professionals, driven by increasing regulation and professionalisation of the sector.
| College | Portobello Institute |
| Course ID | 202246 |
| Course Location | Dublin |
| Location Postcode | Dublin 1 |
| Course Category | Child Development, Education |
| Course Type | Blended Learning - Mix of Classroom & Online |
| Course Qualification | Award / Certificate |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| Awarding Body Details | QQI Level 6 Major Award |
| Course Start Date | 15th September 2026 |
| Course Duration | Nine months |
| Course Fee | €1,248.00 |
| Entry Requirements | Certificate in Early Learning and Care NFQ level 5 or equivalent level 5 major award and Tusla Children First eLearning Programme certificate. International awards in disciplines related to Early Learning and Care equivalent to NFQ level 5 and Tusla Children First eLearning Programme certificate. Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate evidence of achievement of B2 standard for writing, reading, listening, and speaking at Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Additionally, applicants must: Be in a position to undertake supervised placement of 150 hours per stage and be in a position to obtain Garda vetting. |
| Career Path | Graduates of the QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care have strong career opportunities across Early Years education and childcare settings. The programme builds on Level 5 knowledge, preparing you to take on greater responsibility within Early Years environments. Early Learning and Care Career Opportunities This programme prepares you for roles with increased responsibility in Early Years settings. Typical career pathways include: Early Years Practitioner Preschool Educator Montessori Practitioner Room Leader (with experience) After-School Programme Leader These roles involve supporting children’s learning and development, contributing to curriculum delivery, and maintaining high standards within Early Years settings. Employers Recruiting Our Graduates Graduates work across: Early Years and childcare services Montessori and preschool settings Community childcare organisations Early learning centres These organisations value practitioners who can support quality practice and child development. |
If you are an experienced FM or workplace professional ready to move beyond tactical management, this MSc gives you a structured pathway to develop as a strategic leader.
Sustainability is now a core business imperative with facilities and workplace managers playing a pivotal role in driving innovation and sustainability practices.
Facilities Management is increasingly becoming a strategic element for organisations globally.
Whether you are currently working in facilities management, workplace operations or related support services, this programme is designed to help you progress your career and develop the skills required for strategic leadership roles.
