QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care (ELC) Major Award

QQI Level 5 Childcare Early Learning and Care (ELC) Major Award (5M22117)

Course is completed over 9 months. Learners can work at their own pace and can start at any time of year.

Accredited
Qualification on the NFQ (Ireland).

Tutor-supported
eLearning course with Tutor Support.

Flexible
Start any time and work at your own pace.

Learn anywhere
Learn anytime, anywhere.

QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care (ELC) Major Award

€1,195 €995

Enrol online now or call us on 01-2865783, for interest-free instalment plan options.

Overview
  • No other accreditation or certification fees to pay.
  • Course is completed over 9 months. Learners can work at their own pace and can start at any time of year.
  • Blended learning (online with face-to-face elements) course with Tutor Support, accredited by QQI.
  • Applicants will be required to complete 150 hours Professional Practice Placement. A minimum of 50 hours must be completed with children in each of the following age groups: (1) with children aged 0-2 years 8 months, and (2) with children aged 2 years 8 months – 6 years.
  • We cover students work placement insurance at no extra cost.
Level 5 Childcare Course Details

CMIT is offering those interested in pursuing a challenging and rewarding career in early years learning and care an opportunity to complete the brand-new QQI ELC Level 5 Childcare course.

This QQI ELC Level 5 Childcare course is designed with Early Childhood professionals, and the children they will engage with, in mind. The aim of the programme is to enable learners to develop the knowledge, skills and competencies required to work independently and as part of a team, subject to practice supervision and promote the holistic wellbeing, development and learning of children from 0 to six years across a range of ELC settings. The programme is comprised of 6 modules. The CMIT eLearning system enables learners to work at their own pace while being fully supported by a qualified Tutor.

View a detailed list of the learning outcomes for this course on our learning outcomes page.

How you will learn

By enrolling on this course, you’ll receive 24/7 access to the eLearning platform for the full duration of your studies. This includes a detailed course manual, engaging videos, interactive quizzes, dedicated one-to-one support from a qualified Early Years tutor and scheduled placement meetings both on-site and online to support you. You’ll also have access to the CMIT Digital Library, providing a wealth of additional resources.

The course materials for this QQI-certified programme are clearly structured and easy to follow. You can conveniently upload your assessments online and receive feedback through the eLearning platform. You will receive personalised feedback from your tutor on each assessment you submit. The CMIT eLearning platform is accessible from any internet-connected computer, giving you the flexibility to study anytime, anywhere.

 

Who should complete this QQI ELC Level 5 Childcare course?
  • Aspiring Childcare Professionals: Anyone who is interested in a career in early learning and care with children aged 0-6 years. Level 5 is Required for all staff in pre-school services under the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016.
  • Aspiring Childcare Leaders in ECCE Scheme Requirements: Necessary for Childcare Leaders and employees in facilities participating in the ECCE scheme​​.
  • Read our guide on the childcare sector.
Entry Requirements / Prerequisites
  • Leaving Cert, Level 4 award or equivalent, and/or relevant Life or Work Experience.
  • Learners will be required to complete 150 hours Professional Practice Placement. A minimum of 50 hours must be completed with children in each of the following age groups: (1) with children aged 0-2 years 8 months, and (2) with children aged 2 years 8 months – 6 years.
  • Learners will require Garda Vetting prior to commencing Professional Practice. Contact the college for details.
  • Learners will be required to participate in live online classes/webinars.
  • Learners will be required to participate in placement monitoring visits (on-site and online) during their course.
  • Learners must be a resident of Ireland / based in Ireland and hold a valid PPS Number.
  • Basic working knowledge of computers and access to a computer with internet access and word processing software is required to do the course. View the technical requirements for accessing CMIT eLearning.
  • As this NFQ qualification is delivered through English it is necessary to have sufficient written English skills to complete this course. Those who are not fluent in English will be required to provide evidence of meeting a minimum English language and literacy competency of B2 in writing, reading, listening, and speaking on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL).
  • It may be possible to gain exemptions from certain modules of the course. If you hold ECCE components, please contact us and we can advise you of possible exemptions.
  • Further details on the proficiencies required to complete awards at Level 5 are explained in the Equipped to Participate Statements.

How CMIT eLearning Works…

Play
Topics covered in this QQI ELC Level 5 Childcare – Early Learning and Care (ELC)
Component 1: Introduction to ELC and Child Safeguarding
  • Introduction to Early Learning and Care
  • Legislation
  • Child safeguarding
  • Policy and procedures
Component 2: Holistic Care
  • Wellbeing in Early Learning and Care
  • Health, safety and welfare
  • Physical Care
  • Nutrition
Component 3: Inclusive Education
  • Additional needs
  • Disability studies
  • Inclusive practice
  • Approaches and interactions
Component 4: Child Development
  • Intro and Physical Care
  • Cognitive, social, and emotional development
  • Attachment in Children
  • The role of the adult
Component 5: Early Learning and Play
  • Understanding play
  • Curriculum
  • Creative, inclusive and risk play
  • The role of the adult
Component 6: Professional Practice (Work experience)
  • Work experience
  • Insurance during work placement/work experience is provided by CMIT through our insurance provider.
Assessment
  • This QQI Level 5 Childcare course is assessed through completion of project work, assignments and personal learner records.
  • A project is a structured task that requires planning, research, and problem-solving to produce a final product or solution. An assignment is a task or set of tasks completed by a learner to demonstrate understanding of specific learning outcomes. A learner record is a self-reflective record  where the learner reports on their learning experiences, activities and progress.
  • Assessments are submitted online via the eLearning site. They are reviewed by the course tutor and feedback is provided to learners within 5 working days. Learners are only permitted to submit one assessment at a time and must receive feedback on one assessment before submitting the next. All work submitted must be the learners own work.
  • As part of our quality assurance, assessment work will be marked by an Internal Assessor, then checked by an Internal Verifier and an independent QQI External Authenticator.
Transfer and Progression to Further Studies
Protection for Enrolled Learners
  • As this course is of 3 months duration or longer, learners who enrol on this course are protected under the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012.
  • CMIT Learning Ltd has approval to offer students learner protection insurance. Learner Protection insurance is only in place when each student receives their Insurance Policy. Each learner should ensure that they receive a Learner Protection Insurance Policy in their name. Learner Protection insurance is provided by Arachas and underwritten by Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC. Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC, trading as Aviva, is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. The learner protection policy provides for a refund of fees as specified in the 2012 Act. In some circumstances, it may be possible for a learner to transfer to a similar programme in another provider. In such circumstances, the learner may opt to receive the cost of an alternative similar academic programme. Transfer to another programme is always only a second option. The learner protection insurance policy is governed by s. 65(4)(b) of the 2012 Act.
  • More information can be found on our Terms and Conditions page.
Accreditation
  • Following successful completion of all required modules, you will receive a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care (5M22117). This programme is worth 120 credits.
  • This is the most up to date programme on this topic and it has been developed based on learning outcomes which are approved by QQI and is recognised in the industry as a qualification for employment in the area.
  • Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) is the national awarding body for further education and training in Ireland. CMIT is registered with QQI to offer programmes leading to QQI awards in the National Framework of Qualifications in Ireland.
  • More information can be found on the Accreditation Details page.

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Student Reviews of this course

5.0
5.0 out of 5 stars (based on 307 reviews)
Excellent96%
Very good4%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%

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December 16, 2025

I chose to study with CMIT because is fully online and self-paced, which means I am able to plan my study time around other responsabilities. Being able to log in from home and manage my own schedule, will help me stay focused and motivated.

Student December 2025

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December 16, 2025

The course was comprehensive, well-structured, and adaptable to my work routine. It provided strong theoretical foundations and practical insight for working in early years education in Ireland.

Student November 2025

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December 16, 2025

Very good course, initially I thought it was hard to navigate the student portal until i got used to it.

Student November 2025

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December 16, 2025

I found CMIT so helpful and good for studying I am going to do my level 6 with the as well everything was organised and easy to understand

Student November 2025

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December 16, 2025

I found CMIT so helpful and good for studying I am going to do my level 6 with the as well everything was organised and easy to understand

Student November 2025

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December 16, 2025

The course has been very clear and well-organised. I find the modules easy to follow, and the flexibility helps me study while working. The support materials are very helpful.

Student November 2025

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December 16, 2025

Overall, I had a very positive experience with the course. The content was clear and well-structured, and the online format made it easy to follow and fit into my routine. The support provided was helpful, and the assignments allowed me to apply what I was learning in a practical way. I feel that the course contributed to my professional development.

Student November 2025

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November 24, 2025

Very good.

Student November 2025

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November 24, 2025

Being able to study at my own pace was a big factor, access to tutor support also, The online classes to gain extra knowledge and guidance, no major deadlines, cost was affordable as well.

Student November 2025

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November 24, 2025

I personally found it very helpful and would recommend it to anyone wanting to complete their level five while working.

Student November 2025

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November 24, 2025

I heard through friends and colleagues that done courses through CMIT and they speak very positively and gained qualifications. My course is going brilliant, very happy to have chosen CMIT for my course as there were many options but this one stood out the most.

Student November 2025

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November 24, 2025

It is a great course to do at your own pace. I had 4 admissions to Resus in A&E this year due to Brittle Asthma attacks and I was still able to complete this course.

Student November 2025

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November 24, 2025

All great.

Student November 2025

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November 24, 2025

The course was very well structured and the support from my tutor was excellent. I feel I learned a lot and gained confidence to work in the Early Learning and Care sector.

Student November 2025

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November 24, 2025

or the last couple of years I’ve been working as an after school assistant. I have a great interest for child development and I find it fascinating how the young mind works. I really enjoy making and planning activities for the afterschools and my manager suggested that I would be brilliant working in ecce as I always include tuff trays and natural objects in my activites and she found that my personailty would be great for young children as Im kind and considerate. Upon research and a lot of thought, I decided to start my level 5. i was advised by a lot of people that cmit was a brilliant college, and that the tutors are really quick and efficient at helping. During my entire course I only needed assistance from the tutor once, as the course itself provided me with all of the information I needed. I would highly recommend this course to anyone looking to start a career in a preschool setting. my placement has taught me so much and I really look forward to taking my new found skills and starting my career in early childhood.

Student November 2025

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November 24, 2025

I chose to study with CMIT because it offers flexible, accredited online courses that fit well with my schedule. The platform allows me to study at my own pace while still receiving support from tutors when needed. I also appreciate that CMIT courses are recognised and career-focused, which helps me gain practical skills and qualifications that will support my professional development.

Student November 2025

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November 11, 2025

This course has been a very positive learning experience. I gained strong knowledge of child development, play, holistic care, and inclusion, and I learned how to apply Aistear and Síolta in real practice. The assignments and tutor feedback helped me improve my skills and confidence in working with children. Overall, the course has prepared me well for professional practice in Early Learning and Care.

Student November 2025

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November 11, 2025

The course is very user friendly, especially considering I have not done an online course before

Student November 2025

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November 11, 2025

I chose to study with CMIT because it allows me to progress at my own pace and time frame. I should also mention that they meet all my expectations, both in terms of administration and my tutor. They truly make the course an extraordinary and unique educational level, and the communication is excellent. Recommend

Student October 2025

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November 11, 2025

I’m so happy I done this course with CMIT they were very helpful

Student October 2025

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November 4, 2025

My friend recommended CMIT for the course because it’s online, didactic, has a good cost compared to other college , and offers ample time to study. And she was right, I agree.

Student November 2025

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November 4, 2025

I liked how modules were accessible in my own time and I didnt have to wait until a certain date to access course material. This ensures I can proceed on my own timeline. Of all the online colleges that I enquired with, most did not offer this so that is why I chose CMIT. When I contacted CMIT about the course they were very fast and clear at responding.

Student November 2025

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October 22, 2025

I have enjoyed this course. very helpful and my teacher helped me in every module.

Student October 2025

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October 22, 2025

The course was great and the tasks were easy to understand even for non-native English speakers.

Student October 2025

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October 22, 2025

I chose to study with CMIT because it offers flexible online learning that fits around my personal commitments. The QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care provides the knowledge and skills I need to build a career working with young children. I was also drawn to CMIT’s excellent tutor support, clear course structure, and strong reputation for quality education. This course allows me to develop professionally while gaining a recognised qualification in a field I am passionate about. I am really enjoying the course so far. The content is clear, well-structured, and very relevant to real-life practice in Early Learning and Care. I like how each module builds on the previous one, helping me understand children’s development, learning environments, and inclusive practices in more depth. The online platform is easy to use, and the tutor feedback has been supportive and encouraging. Studying with CMIT has helped me grow in confidence and deepen my understanding of how to support children’s learning and wellbeing. I feel motivated to continue learning and to apply this knowledge in a professional childcare setting.

Student October 2025

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October 22, 2025

I really enjoyed this course and found it very informative

Student October 2025

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October 22, 2025

Lindsey Higgins is an absolute credit to CMIT. She responded to every message so promptly, and her webinars were so engaging. I am going into my level 6 with CMIT shortly and I’ve every candle lighting that I’ll get her as my tutor again as she was brilliant.

Student October 2025

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October 22, 2025

I really enjoyed the course everything was made easy to make sense of

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

I have learnt new skills that I will put into practice in a childcare setting.

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

I choose CMIT so I could learn part time and in my own time while also working a full time job. It was such a great course and CMIT have and excellent support system and great tutors to help you achieve yours goals. Excellent, everything is explained very well and CMIT manuals and course materials are easy to navigate and I feel I had all the information I needed to complete my assessments.

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

Fantastic tutor, great staff when calling, very polite and friendly.

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

I would really recommend this course to anyone as its so well lay out and so easy to use. I have learnt so much so far about childcare.

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

I just found it fantastic!

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

Overall, the course was very good and I really enjoyed it. Even though I was already familiar with some of the topics, it was great to study them again and reinforce my knowledge.

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

So far, I have experienced prompt communication, and I have learned a great deal already. I have been studying for nearly three months and have almost completed three modules, so I am delighted with the pace I am making and how much I am learning while studying. My tutor, Nicole, is also beneficial, and I know I can go to her if I need assistance.

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

I loved every second of the course, the confidence I have gained in my role is unmatched. I look forward to continuing my studies further with CMIT.

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

Very good course,very interesting,tutor so respectful and very kind

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

I am very happy with the course so far. The content is clear and well-structured , and the flexibility allows me to combine study with my work placement.

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

The course was excellent and i truly enjoyed doing it , it was all straightforward and there was plenty of help on offer should i need it

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

Very accessible and helpful.

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

I truly enjoyed this course and learned a lot, and hope to join the field when I receive certification

Student October 2025

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October 14, 2025

I loved it and I would definitely recommend

Student September 2025

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October 14, 2025

I am really enjoying the course so far, I’m finding it very interesting. Love that as well as course material there is a world of information and studies available online, to explore and deepen my understanding. I love the variety of tasks, observations and practical elements included as they make learning more engaging.

Student September 2025

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October 14, 2025

The course is very easy to understand. The reading is clear and simple, which makes learning much easier. Another positive point is that you can study at your own pace, which is great since not everyone has a lot of free time. After a long day at work, with the rush of adult life, marriage, or children, this flexibility makes all the difference. It’s a course that truly adapts to each person’s needs, regardless of age.

Student September 2025

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October 14, 2025

Brilliant course, Highly recommend.

Student September 2025

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October 14, 2025

It was very useful and the course content was high quality.

Student September 2025

No Title

October 14, 2025

It was very useful and the course content was high quality.

Student September 2025

No Title

September 22, 2025

I really enjoyed my course here at CMIT and will return to do my level 6. My tutor, Lindsey, was amazing and very helpful when I had questions.

Student September 2025

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September 22, 2025

I am really enjoying my course and I am learning loads

Student September 2025

No Title

September 22, 2025

I really enjoyed my course here at CMIT and will return to do my level 6. My tutor, Lindsey, was amazing and very helpful when I had questions.

Student September 2025

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