Childcare courses
Explore childcare courses at City College Dublin for learners beginning a career in early years education or building on an existing qualification. Choose from the QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care, the Level 6 Advanced Certificate or a combined programme covering both levels.
Study through blended online learning, with practical placement in early learning and care settings. Compare the routes below to find the course that matches your previous qualifications and the next step you want to take.
Compare your childcare course options
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Childcare level 5
Build a foundation in caring for young children and supporting their learning and development. The QQI Level 5 Certificate in Early Learning and Care suits learners starting their professional training for work in early years settings.
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Childcare Level 6
Build on your existing early years qualification with more advanced study in child development, inclusive practice and leadership. The QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate supports progression towards greater responsibility within an early learning and care setting.
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Combined Level 5 and 6
Follow a structured programme covering both the Certificate and Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care. This route suits learners who want to begin at Level 5 and continue to Level 6 through two successive stages.
Browse childcare courses
- Education & Care
- Blended Online
- QQI level 5
- QQI Level 5 & 6
- QQI level 6
About our childcare courses
Early learning and care involves supporting children’s wellbeing, development and learning during their first six years. Practitioners help create safe, welcoming environments where children can explore, play, build relationships and develop confidence.
Our childcare programmes explore how children learn and grow, alongside the professional responsibilities of working in an early years setting. Subjects include child development, play, safeguarding and inclusive education, with advanced study extending into leadership and curriculum practice.
Practical placement connects this learning with experience in early years services. It gives learners opportunities to observe practice, work alongside educators and apply what they have studied.
Each course page sets out the qualification awarded, entry requirements, assessments and placement arrangements, helping you understand what is involved before enrolling.
Who are our Childcare Courses suitable for?
- Learners beginning their professional training in early learning and care
- Career changers interested in working with babies and young children
- People returning to education to pursue a childcare qualification
- Early years practitioners building on an existing Level 5 qualification
- Learners seeking to develop their leadership and professional practice
- People looking for online classes alongside practical workplace learning
Why City College Dublin?
Learn from the best in your industry
Study your way, on your time
Programmes with purpose, aimed at your future
Here for you, every step of the way
What our childcare learners say
10.08.2026
I recently completed the Advanced Certificate in Early Learning & Care (QQI Level 6) online with City College Dublin. I was initially sceptical, as I hadn't done a course in a few years but overall, my experience of completing this course has been very positive. It was practical and easy to follow. The online course gave me the flexibility to continue working, take my children to their after-school activities, and still keep up with my studies. Katie was an excellent tutor. She was always very helpful, supportive, and provided helpful feedback throughout the course. If you are considering this course, believe me - if I can do it, so can you! I would highly recommend it.
27.04.2026
I recently completed my QQI Level 5 in Early Childcare course at City College Dublin, and overall, it was a really positive experience. The course was delivered over a short timeframe, which made it ideal for fitting around other commitments, and it never felt overwhelming to me, while studying and being a mom of my own two children. The structure was clear and easy to follow, with well-organized modules and straightforward instructions on all the assignments and projects. My lecturer Fationa, was great with guiding me through the assignments and helped a great deal with the course. The online platform was simple to navigate, so I always knew where to find materials, assignments, and feedback without any confusion. Fationa was supportive and responsive, providing helpful guidance whenever needed. Assignments were practical and relevant, which made the learning experience engaging and worthwhile. I would definitely recommend City College Dublin to anyone looking for a flexible, efficient way to complete a QQI Level 5 qualification in Early Childcare. I will be furthering my studies with City College Dublin, and I look forward to completing the degree programme.
24.04.2026
I really enjoyed this early learning and care level 5 course. I found it very interesting and very beneficial. The course content was very informative and knowledgeable. At first, I found Moodle a little bit difficult to navigate but once I got the hang of it, it was quite easy to use and all the information needed was there. Sometimes there was a lot of content to read and I did find it a lot at times even stressful especially in the evenings as I work full time and had a house and family to care for. I am a very visual learner, so I did enjoy the videos and live classes. I really found the inclusive and child development modules very interesting and gave me a better understanding of the holistic wellbeing of a child. I also enjoyed my work placement where I gained a lot of hands-on experience. I felt my tutor Fationa Demiraj was very supportive, understanding and easy to talk to and for this I would like to thank her. I feel that I am more confident and am looking forward to working as an early years educator in the near future.
04.05.2026
Before joining the college, I came from a completely different academic and professional background. I hold a bachelor’s degree in computer sciences and a master’s in business administration, and I had no prior knowledge of Early Learning and Childcare. Despite my strong educational background, entering this field felt like starting from scratch. However, I was eager to learn more about children and to gain meaningful knowledge in this area. At the beginning, the course felt challenging, but with the continuous support I got at City College Dublin, my journey became easier and more structured. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my tutor, Ms. Carol Mulholl and as she has been incredibly encouraging, supportive, and understanding throughout my journey. She always made me feel included, valued, and confident in my abilities. Her continuous support and motivation have made a significant difference in my learning experience. City College Dublin has been excellent in providing well-organized course notes and consistent support throughout the programme. The tutors are extremely helpful, especially during the live webinars, which are very interactive and engaging. This made learning more enjoyable and allowed me to ask questions and build my understanding in a supportive environment. The step-by-step approach to teaching helped me build my confidence over time. Through the various modules, I have gained valuable knowledge and practical insights into Early Learning and Childcare. Today, I am proud to say that I am progressing well and developing a strong foundation in this field. I would highly encourage others to take part in courses like this at City College Dublin. The flexibility to study at your own pace and comfort makes it accessible for everyone. With dedication and the right support, you can successfully complete this course. Looking ahead, I am planning to continue my studies by progressing to QQI Level 6 with City College Dublin. I am truly grateful to City College Dublin for providing such a supportive learning environment and helping me grow academically and professionally.
11.03.2025
I did my level 7 special purpose award in City College Dublin (Formerly Progressive College). I just Loved it. Of all the courses I have done over the last 4 year it's been the most enjoyable one. My tutor Josephine and facilitator Vicki were just amazing ladies. I would highly recommend doing level 7 with City College Dublin.
read more Read more testimonial from Mary Egan 07.11.2024
I've recently completed my Early Learning and Care level 5 course with City College Dublin (Formerly Progressive College). It has been a positive experience from the beginning. The level of support, and encouragement in helping me reach my goal of completion was highly professional both from my Tutor, course Co-Ordinator and administration staff. I highly recommend this College.
read more Read more testimonial from Julie Dennehy- O’CallaghanChildcare courses FAQs
Yes. Our Early Learning and Care programmes use blended online learning, including scheduled webinars, recorded material and tutor support. Practical placement takes place in early years settings, so you should allow time for both online study and attendance at placement.
The standalone Level 6 course requires a completed Level 5 programme in Early Childhood Care and Education or Early Learning and Care. If you hold an older or alternative qualification, contact admissions to check your eligibility before enrolling.
Yes. The combined Early Learning and Care programme covers the Level 5 Certificate followed by the Level 6 Advanced Certificate. You complete the learning, assessments and practical requirements for each stage as you progress.
Yes. Practical placement is part of the Early Learning and Care programmes. The standalone Level 5 and Level 6 courses each specify 150 hours, with experience across two settings and different age groups. For the combined route, review the placement requirements for both stages with admissions before enrolling.
Successful completion of Level 5 leads to the QQI Certificate in Early Learning and Care. Level 6 leads to the QQI Advanced Certificate in Early Learning and Care. The combined programme covers both qualifications, subject to successful completion of each stage.
