Qualifications

Qualification Requirements

The minimum qualification of Level 5 on the National Framework for Qualifications, is required for all staff working with children in Early Years Services from 31st December 2016.

The DCDE has published a list of recognised qualifications to meet the minimum qualification requirements under the pending Early Years Regulations, as well as the contractual requirements for participation in DCDE Childcare Funding Programmes.

This list allows employees working in the Early Years sector in Ireland to verify whether the qualifications they hold will be recognised under the forthcoming Early Years Regulations.

It also outlines the qualifications recognised for DCDE Childcare Programmes, specifically identifying whether a qualification meets the requirements for a Room Leader under the ECCE programme and eligibility for the ECCE Higher Capitation rate.

Where a qualification does not appear on the DCDE Early Years Recognised Qualifications list, but is considered by the holder to be an appropriate Major Award at NFQ Level 5 or equivalent, the holder may apply to have the qualification assessed for approval.

The list of ‘Early Years DCDE Recognised Qualifications’ is below:
https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/services/recognition-of-an-early-years-qualification/
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