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- Generic Programmes and Qualifications
Pathway to Special Needs Assisting and Early Learning Studies
NFQ Level 4
- Full-Time
- In-Person
- 38 Weeks
Available Locations:
- Applications now closed. We’ll be back with new dates shortly.
Online applicants will be redirected to fetchcourses.ie to complete the application process.Â
What You'll Learn
You will have the opportunity to learn and undertake:
- Child Development and Play: Learn about child growth and the role of play.
- English and Communications: Improve English communication skills.
- Information Technology Skills: Develop IT skills.
- Mathematics: Enhance math skills.
- Personal Effectiveness: Improve personal skills like time management.
- Work Experience: Gain practical work experience.
- Child Care and Safety: Learn about childcare and safety.
- Special Needs Assisting: Understand how to assist children with special needs.
- Environmental Sustainability Awareness: Learn about environmental issues and sustainability.
This Pathway course includes interactive activities inside and outside of the classroom:
- Field Trips: Educational visits to enhance learning.
- Guest Speakers: Insights from industry professionals.
- Workshops: Interactive sessions to develop practical skills.
On successful completion of this course, you will receive the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) National Framework of Qualifications Level 4 Certificate in General Learning.
Timetable & Modules
Timetable:
The course will have a range of field trips, guest speakers, and workshops and will run Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30 am -2:00 pm with a half-day on Fridays.
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Tuesday | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Wednesday | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Thursday | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Friday | ✓ |
| Module  | Title   |
| 4N1111  | Child Development And Play  |
| 4N0689Â Â | English And Communications Level 4Â Â |
| 4N1125  | Information Technology Skills  |
| 4N1987  | Mathematics  |
| 4N1132  | Personal Effectiveness  |
| 4N1168  | Work Experience  |
| 4N1905  | Child Care And Safety  |
| 5N1786  | Special Needs Assisting  |
| 4N21810  | Environmental Sustainability Awareness |
Progression / Career
After completing this course, students gain key skills. You can then move into various roles across Special Needs Assisting and Early Learning and Care.
This course also lays the groundwork for further education and training in Special Needs Assisting and Early Learning and Care.
Entry Requirements
- Students need to have level 3 skills and knowledge from the National Qualifications Framework (NFQ) to succeed in this course. You can show this through relevant life and work experience as no formal qualifications are required for entry to this course.
- Students must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to gain the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
- According to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL), non-native English speakers need a B2 level in writing, reading, listening, and speaking.Â
Eligibility
Non-EU/EEA applicants need permission to work in Ireland. For more details, see our eligibility section.
Cost / Fees
You may be eligible for reduced course fees or a fee waiver (i.e. no cost).
We will talk to you about the possible low/no cost fees options during your application process.
Share This Course:
Real Students, Real Results!
"I love it. It’s the best thing I ever did. It was a scary move at the same time. I was out of education for well over 30 years, and I was at Optum for 21 years. I loved my job, and they are a great employer, but when I hit my 50s, something changed. All the teaching staff were unbelievably good. This course is so doable. It has brought me on so much to believe that any of us are capable of something in the right environment and with people supporting you. It’s very varied and you get an hour after classes every day if you want to stay behind and get extra help. I never enjoyed maths in school, but I found the teachers here very good, and I’m not afraid anymore. At one time, I would have dreaded maths 100%. Particularly for older individuals, I think we have a lot to give. I have my three children reared, and even though it’s scary making the jump, you know in yourself it feels right."
Lisa Doherty
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Can I apply for an Apprenticeship?
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To find out more about becoming an apprentice or an approved apprentice employer please contact our Apprenticeship Services Team: Tel: 074 9120500 or Email: apprenticeship@donegaletb.ie