Early Learning and Care Outdoor Specialism Stage 1

Description

The course places an emphasis on Forest Schooling. Forest school learning will immerse you in a world where nature becomes the classroom, fostering hands-on experiences that ignite curiosity, creativity, and resilience. You’ll engage in outdoor activities that promote physical development, problem-solving, and social skills, all while learning to manage risks and cultivate a deep respect for the environment. Through this immersive approach, you’ll witness how unstructured play in natural settings encourages children to think critically, collaborate with peers, and grow emotionally. Forest school learning not only enriches your understanding of child development but also inspires a lifelong love for nature and sustainable living. Forest school education is Ideal for those who love working with children in the outdoors.

It is designed for those who wish to work with children under the age of 6. It is a nationally and internationally recognised qualification. Students get the opportunity to have hands-on experience and acquire the theory to support it. The course covers a child’s overall development from conception to 6 years. This Level 5 course is the minimum requirement for those wishing to work in the area and is the first year of a 2 year professional programme leading to the Advanced Certificate at Level 6. The Level 5 is an embedded award and students who leave after year one are qualified to work in the sector.
Students will undertake 150 hours of Professional Practice in a minimum of 2 early Years of Early Years settings per annum. The settings will include birth -2 yrs 8 months, and 2 yrs 8 months to 6 years. All Professional Practice placements must be carried out with an ELC provider currently registered with Tusla. Learners must be garda vetted before going on the placement.