Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Early Childhood Education & Care at Institute of Technology Carlow

Children require high-quality education and care during their formative years. Research indicates that the higher the professional qualification of the educator working with the children, the higher the quality of the setting. This honours degree in Early Childhood Education and Care enables the student to study a diverse range of subjects in order to gain a deep understanding of babies and children from birth to six years of age. The importance of play and interactions in supporting learning is emphasised throughout. Students develop a knowledge and understanding of Aistear, the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework and Siolta, the National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education, essential for professional work in this area of practice.

Special Features:

• Professional work placement is an integral part of the course, supported by preparation and on-going workshops.

• Professional placement in a national support service.
• Continuous Assessment to include practical activities.
• Engagement with the sector through guest lectures.
• Cultural and education visits.

What will I be able to do when I finish the course?

Graduates of this course will have the knowledge, competencies and skills to work directly with, or on behalf of, babies and young children in a range of early childhood settings, particularly in the ECCE “free” pre-school year funded by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. Professional employment opportunities can include roles as room leaders, managers and leaders in early childhood settings such as: pre-schools; creches; special needs services; family support centres and community services. Opportunities may include leadership roles in county childhood care committees, specialists with Better Start, inspectors with the Department of Education and Skills. Graduates have also found employment in International and other overseas schools.