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

€1195

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 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 373 reviews)
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March 3, 2026

April 15, 2026

I have done another course before online with a different college and this one is much more informative and helpful!

Student March 2026

February 28, 2026

April 15, 2026

I am highly satisfied with the course.

Student February 2026

February 24, 2026

April 15, 2026

The course structure was good as it met all the requirements needed for future use in the field of healthcare.

Student February 2026

February 24, 2026

April 15, 2026

Well structured course which addresses the critical aspects of healthcare and equips students with requisite skills.

Student February 2026

February 24, 2026

April 15, 2026

The course was well-detailed and it was very helpful to develop new skills.

Student February 2026

February 05, 2026

April 15, 2026

I enjoyed the course and learned a lot to further my career.

Student February 2026

February 22, 2026

April 15, 2026

This course helped me a lot, the tutors and the classes are excellent.

Student February 2026

February 15, 2026

April 15, 2026

Everyone is very helpful and knowledgeable and are quick at answering queries.

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

I chose to study at CMIT because of its strong reputation. I believe the course will help me develop my professional skills and achieve my career goals.

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

The course was very good. Well structured. Good online access

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

Overall, I found the course well structured and relevant to my professional practice. The content was practical and aligned with real childcare settings. The assessments encouraged reflection and supported my development as an Early Learning and Care practitioner.

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

I really enjoyed this course, I learned loads of new information and skills to pursue a career in childcare.

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

My tutor was easy to deal with and all my questions were always answered in a timely manner.

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

I am learning a lot from this course and the best part is that I am encouraged and advised to always put into practice my conclusions and insights from everything I have been learning.

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

So far, the course is easy to understand and well organised. The webinars are clear and helpful. And the examples make learning simple. I am enjoying and learning useful things.

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

So far I am enjoying the course and have had no issues. Any queries I had at the start were all dealt with in a timely manner

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

It is very handy to be able to work at my own pace

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

I had an issue almost at the end of my course but I was glad that the staff help me to sort it out. I really appreciate that

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

It would be helpful to have more recorded lectures or the webinars available to watch for reference after attending them. For me this would have greatly helped with my assignments. I learn better when I hear information rather than reading it but I don’t find the read aloud tool helpful on word. My tutor was exceptional good her webinars were filled with so much information I learnt alot for her on those.

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

It was perfect.

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

Course was excellent and was able to get it finished in a timely, will definitely be completing my level 6 with cmit once my certification arrives. I will recommend this to work colleagues and peers

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

I find the course layout and materials all very clear and helpful. The online learning platform is very easy to navigate and understand. The college is very responsive to any queries.

Student February 2026

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April 15, 2026

I found the course great to follow and had great help and feedback along the way

Student January 2026

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April 15, 2026

Very interesting course glad i signed up.

Student January 2026

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April 15, 2026

This course was enjoyable to study, and I like how the studyhub is so accessible and easy to work in. I also love that it’s self-paced and that you have an assigned tutor to help and give feedback. Would definitely recommend this to someone.

Student January 2026

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April 15, 2026

The course is very well detailed and easy to understand which in turn makes learning easy.

Student January 2026

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April 15, 2026

I really enjoyed the course overall and my placements. I enjoyed the assignments but coursework changed half way through and i had some assignments complete for submission . thankfully the college were helpful but do believe this should be the same brief and should not change like this as it was very worrying

Student January 2026

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April 15, 2026

I have already recommended a friend to research about starting a course with CMIT. They can see how I am managing my family life whilst completing my course content. I am really enjoying the course, it is accessible and easy to navigate.

Student January 2026

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April 15, 2026

I was nervous and overwhelmed with the first assignment, and it felt like it was going to take forever. Having completed some more, it feels much easier now and am getting into the rhythm of the assignments and reading and watching videos. This has instilled some confidence in me to realise I know what I am doing most o f the time 🙂

Student January 2026

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April 15, 2026

This course is very useful and strong

Student January 2026

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April 15, 2026

Nicole my tutor has been great help when needed, she has graded my assessments properly and answered any questions I’ve had. I’m really enjoying the course, as I do more assessments I’m getting more into the swing of things. Enjoying it overall

Student January 2026

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April 15, 2026

It’s very accessible

Student January 2026

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January 19, 2026

I picked CMIT because it allowed me to have the flexibility i needed to study this course. I’m a mother of two children, a wife and a full-time worker, this allowed me to study in my own time and not interfere with my daily responsibilities. It was the perfect fit for me personally.

Student January 2026

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January 19, 2026

Yes it is very interesting and it is given me tips for my own children one that we are in the processes with one child being assessed for autism so it is helping me about information to look for

Student January 2026

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January 19, 2026

I chose to study with CMIT because of its strong reputation for providing high-quality education and practical, career-focused courses. The Early Education and Childcare Level 5 programme offered by CMIT aligns perfectly with my interest in working with children and developing my skills in early childhood education.

I was also impressed by the supportive learning environment, experienced tutors, and the emphasis on both theory and practical experience. Studying with CMIT gives me the confidence and knowledge I need to progress in my career and further education in this field.

Overall, I am very satisfied with the course so far. The content is well-structured and easy to follow, and the support from tutors and staff has been excellent. Communication has been clear and timely, which has made the learning experience very positive.

Student January 2026

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January 19, 2026

I have found this course very helpful for me to complete my level 5. It’s very straightforward and easy to navigate around the course.

Student January 2026

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January 19, 2026

I chose to study with CMIT because of the flexibility of the online course and the strong support provided to students. The course content was relevant, clear, and aligned with my career goals in childcare.

Student January 2026

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January 19, 2026

Very helpful.

Student January 2026

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January 19, 2026

I chose to study with College of Management and IT (CMIT) because it offers a strong balance of academic quality, practical relevance, and recognised accreditation within Ireland.

CMIT’s programmes are QQI-validated, which was essential for me, as I wanted a qualification that is fully recognised and aligned with Irish regulatory and professional standards. The course content is clearly structured, outcomes-focused, and directly applicable to real workplace settings—particularly important in areas such as Early Learning and Care and professional practice. Another decisive factor was flexibility. CMIT’s blended and online learning model allows me to study while working, which supports consistency and progression without compromising professional responsibilities. I also value the clear guidance provided for assessments, referencing, and reflective practice, as this supports academic development and confidence. Finally, CMIT’s emphasis on professional standards, reflective learning, and employability aligns closely with my long-term career goals in Ireland. Studying with CMIT gives me both a recognised qualification and practical skills that are immediately transferable to the workplace

Student January 2026

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January 19, 2026

The course is very straight forward with the way it is laid out, I like how you get emails on when the classes are and it is easy to sign up for a class and join it.

Student January 2026

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January 19, 2026

This course was very enjoyable and manageable

Student January 2026

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January 19, 2026

I chose CMIT because it is a recognised institution with a good reputation in Early Learning and Care, and it offers a programme that fully meets the QQI Level 5 requirements. In addition, CMIT provides a practical learning approach, strong student support, and a learning environment that helps develop the skills needed to work with children in Ireland.

Student December 2025

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January 19, 2026

I am really enjoying it and the feedback on assignments is helpful

Student December 2025

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January 19, 2026

I chose CMIT because it is a recognised institution with a good reputation in Early Learning and Care, and it offers a programme that fully meets the QQI Level 5 requirements. In addition, CMIT provides a practical learning approach, strong student support, and a learning environment that helps develop the skills needed to work with children in Ireland

Student December 2025

No Title

January 19, 2026

I chose CMIT because it is a recognised institution with a good reputation in Early Learning and Care, and it offers a programme that fully meets the QQI Level 5 requirements. In addition, CMIT provides a practical learning approach, strong student support, and a learning environment that helps develop the skills needed to work with children in Ireland.

Student December 2025

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January 19, 2026

Lyndsey was very helpful and very quick with responses to all my questions. I really look forward to taking all that I’ve learned in the course into my Early years setting and sharing it with my colleagues and children.

Student December 2025

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January 19, 2026

The course exceeded my expectations. It was well-structured, the content was clear and relevant, and the tutor support was excellent. I gained real insight into the Early Learning and Care sector in Ireland and feel confident in applying what I’ve learned.

Student December 2025

No Title

January 19, 2026

The course exceeded my expectations. It was well-structured, the content was clear and relevant, and the tutor support was excellent. I gained real insight into the Early Learning and Care sector in Ireland and feel confident in applying what I’ve learned.

Student December 2025

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January 19, 2026

Very good course and I enjoyed it, my tutor was helpful and gave great feedback.

Student December 2025

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January 19, 2026

My tutor, Lindsey Higgins, is incredibly informative, helpful, encouraging and has been amazingly prompt in responding to my many messages and assessment submissions.

Student December 2025

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