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 12 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

€1195 €1095

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 12 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, webinars, engaging videos, interactive quizzes and dedicated one-to-one support from a qualified Healthcare tutor. You’ll also have access to the CMIT Digital Library, providing a wealth of additional resources. In addition, you can take part in face-to-face training days – interactive sessions where you’ll practise hands-on skills, connect with fellow learners and get guidance on your assignments and work experience, all while learning from an expert tutor.

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 10 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 427 reviews)
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July 10, 2026

July 16, 2026

Overall, the course went well and I surprised myself with how fast I completed it.

Student July 2026

July 10, 2026

July 16, 2026

Very helpful course.

Student July 2026

July 14, 2026

July 16, 2026

Very good course and the information was easy to follow.

Student July 2026

July 14, 2026

July 16, 2026

The course content is very good, and I have acquired new skills from completing this course.

Student July 2026

July 15, 2026

July 16, 2026

Wonderful course enjoyed it very much. Really has given me a chance to grow into a career I’m excited to start my journey on. Thank you CMIT.

Student July 2026

July 7, 2026

July 16, 2026

I enjoyed the course and found it very useful. It helped me develop new skills, improve my knowledge, and gain more confidence. The materials were clear and the support from tutors was very helpful.

Student July 2026

July 8, 2026

July 16, 2026

Amazing.

Student July 2026

July 2, 2026

July 16, 2026

Overall, my QQI Level 5 course with CMIT has been a very positive experience. The Videos and Information were knowledgeable, supportive, and always willing to help whenever I needed assistance. The course content was well organized, practical, and relevant to my learning and career goals. I have gained valuable knowledge, improved my skills, and grown in confidence throughout the program. I am grateful for the support and guidance I received from CMIT and would recommend the college to anyone looking for a quality learning experience.

Student July 2026

June 30, 2026

July 6, 2026

Really good course, the content was clear, relevant to childcare in Ireland, and the tutor support was excellent.

Student June 2026

June 30, 2026

July 6, 2026

I thoroughly enjoyed the learning and development of each assessment.

Student June 2026

June 30, 2026

July 6, 2026

I have really enjoyed the course so far. The content is clear, practical, and relevant, and the flexibility of online learning has helped me balance my studies with work. The support from the CMIT team has also been helpful throughout the course.

Student June 2026

June 29, 2026

July 6, 2026

The course has been full of discoveries and valuable learning experience, each module brought new challenges that pushed me to develop professional and personal skills.

Student June 2026

June 30, 2026

July 6, 2026

It was very user friendly and all tasks and instructions were detailed very well and were understandable.

Student June 2026

June 26, 2026

July 6, 2026

The course was enjoyable.

Student June 2026

June 29, 2026

July 6, 2026

I have enjoyed this course so far. I have learned a lot about inclusion and how to support children with additional needs. The course has helped me understand how small changes can make a big difference for children.

Student June 2026

June 28, 2026

July 6, 2026

Loved the course.

Student June 2026

June 27, 2026

July 6, 2026

I have really enjoyed the course so far. The content is clear, relevant, and easy to follow. It has helped me improve my knowledge and confidence in early childhood education, especially in supporting children with additional needs. The tutors feedback has also been helpful and encouraging.

Student June 2026

June 26, 2026

July 6, 2026

It was very fulfilling and I learned so much for my day to day job.

Student June 2026

June 24, 2026

July 6, 2026

Overall, I found the QQI Level 5 course with CMIT to be well-structured, flexible, and highly informative. The online learning platform was easy to use, allowing me to study at my own pace while balancing work and personal commitments. The course materials were clear and relevant, helping me develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Tutor support was excellent, with prompt feedback and guidance whenever needed. The webinars and learning resources enhanced my understanding of the modules. Completing this course has increased my confidence and prepared me for further study and employment opportunities in my chosen field.

Student June 2026

June 24, 2026

July 6, 2026

I am really enjoying my course and I have learned a lot by doing this course.

Student June 2026

May 9, 2026

June 22, 2026

Very good course, tutor and webinars are very helpful, platform is easy to use.

Student May 2026

May 5, 2026

June 22, 2026

I think the course is very interesting and useful. It is helping me understand how to work with children and develop important skills. I am enjoying the learning experience and I believe it will help me in my future career.

Student May 2026

May 4, 2026

June 22, 2026

The course at CMIT was good and easy to follow. The teachers were helpful and the material was useful. I had a positive learning experience.

Student May 2026

May 4, 2026

June 22, 2026

It was an absolutely fantastic course, I loved that it was done all at my own pace. The online webinars were extremely beneficial and I really enjoyed them, my tutor Nicole was so quick to respond to both messages and to grade assignments.

Student May 2026

May 21, 2026

June 22, 2026

Brilliant and very straight forward.

Student May 2026

May 21, 2026

June 22, 2026

The course was straight forward and my tutor was very helpful.

Student May 2026

May 21, 2026

June 22, 2026

Overall, I have found the course informative and well-structured. The content is relevant to early childhood education and has helped me develop a better understanding of inclusion, diversity, and supporting children with additional needs. The materials are clear and easy to follow, and the topics are practical and applicable to real-life childcare settings. I would recommend the course to others who are interested in working in early years education.

Student May 2026

May 20, 2026

June 22, 2026

I really enjoyed taking this course with CMIT. The course was very well organised, easy to follow, and the online format was very convenient for me. I also appreciated the professionalism and support provided throughout the course. Overall, it was a great learning experience and I would definitely recommend CMIT to other students.

Student May 2026

May 18, 2026

June 22, 2026

I really enjoyed this course and I like the teachers at CMIT very much. I learned a lot, as it was a very enjoyable learning experience.

Student May 2026

May 17, 2026

June 22, 2026

Overall, I found the course very useful and relevant to Early Learning and Care practice. The course helped me develop a stronger understanding of child development, play, inclusive practice, holistic care and professional practice in early years settings.

Student May 2026

May 17, 2026

June 22, 2026

Incredible, truly enjoyed and learned so much!

Student May 2026

May 17, 2026

June 22, 2026

Course was wonderful and loads of great content.

Student May 2026

May 16, 2026

June 22, 2026

I am enjoying it so much my tutor is so lovely and always there to help when needed. I would recommend this course to others.

Student May 2026

May 14, 2026

June 22, 2026

The course was very informative and practical and helped me develop my skills in all areas of childcare, preparing me in the best way, both theoretically and practically, to perform my profession with excellence.

Student May 2026

May 14, 2026

June 22, 2026

Overall, I enjoyed the course. It was far more challenging than I anticipated, but I enjoyed it. Anyone I engaged with was helpful and nice. I would recommend the course to anyone looking to pursue a career in early learning.

Student May 2026

May 14, 2026

June 22, 2026

The course was very informative, well organized, and helpful for my professional development.

Student May 2026

May 13, 2026

June 22, 2026

Tutors are helpful and queries are replied to promptly.

Student May 2026

May 12, 2026

June 22, 2026

Overall, I am very happy with the course so far. The content is well structured, easy to follow, and relevant to Early Learning and Care practice. The learning materials are clear and informative, and I appreciate that the course balances theory with practical understanding. I also find the support and guidance provided reassuring, which helps me stay motivated and confident in my studies. So far, the course has met my expectations and I feel it is preparing me well to progress and complete the qualification successfully.

Student May 2026

May 11, 2026

June 22, 2026

I really enjoyed studying with CMIT, I found the online platform, course content and webinars easy to follow and learn from. My Tutor was prompt and helpful when required and all tutors I had webinars with were very knowledgeable and helpful. It was a very enjoyable experience. I would recommend CMIT if online learning is what you are interested in.

Student May 2026

May 1, 2026

June 22, 2026

The course is very well-structured and the content is highly relevant to my professional development in Early Learning and Care. I find the manuals very comprehensive, and the inclusive education module has been particularly insightful for my future career.

Student May 2026

May 1, 2026

June 22, 2026

Thorough and concise work. It is beneficial for comprehension as it is straightforward and has links and resources available whenever needed. Webinars are extremely helpful and insightful and a great way to interact with other students and tutors. Overall really great.

Student May 2026

June 16, 2026

June 22, 2026

Overall, I am satisfied with the course so far. The course materials are clear and helpful, and I feel that I am developing my knowledge and confidence in Early Learning and Care. The online platform is useful because I can study at my own pace and manage my course alongside my other commitments.

Student June 2026

June 15, 2026

June 22, 2026

The course exceeded my expectations. I learned a great deal throughout the program and consider it a valuable experience both academically and personally.

Student June 2026

June 14, 2026

June 22, 2026

Overall, I really enjoyed the course. It helped me develop a better understanding of children’s needs and how to support their learning and development. One aspect of the course that I particularly enjoyed was the opportunity to work with children with additional needs. I found it very rewarding to understand how different supports and inclusive practices can help children participate.

Student June 2026

June 14, 2026

June 22, 2026

I enjoyed the course and gained valuable skills to progress in my career in childcare.

Student June 2026

May 1, 2026

June 22, 2026

The course has been very helpful and easy to follow. The learning materials are clear, and the online platform is convenient. I am happy with the support from tutors and staff and overall satisfied with my learning experience.

Student May 2026

April 29, 2026

June 22, 2026

It is very easy to be able to get it done in my own time.

Student April 2026

April 20, 2026

June 22, 2026

I would highly recommend CMIT to anyone who is thinking of going back into learning. I was 40 years old starting the course and although daunting at first, you find your feet very quickly. It was clear and easy to follow.

Student April 2026

April 27, 2026

June 22, 2026

I enjoyed learning at my own time and pace, it worked well around family commitments.

Student April 2026

June 17, 2026

June 22, 2026

This course was fabulous from start to finish. I’m hoping to get back soon for the level 6.

Student June 2026

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