Build skills and confidence to support young children’s
learning, care and development with flexible, accredited
QQI programmes and expert Trainer guidance.
Start at Level 5, progress to Level 6, and open routes to leadership roles or further study.
Build skills grounded in childcare practice, Irish standards and real early years settings.
Get guidance and feedback fromTrainers who understand adult learners and early years study.
Gain recognised qualifications that support employment, progression and confidence in ELC.
Begin with a two-module Starter Pack, commit to a full Major Award, or
choose the Combined Level 5 & 6 route.
LEVEL 5
ELC Level 5 Starter Pack
Begin with 2 modules before continuing towards the full Level 5 Major Award.
Best for: learners taking a first step into Early Learning and Care.
2-module starter route
QQI Code: 5M22413
Flexible study options
LEVEL 5
ELC Level 5 Major Award
Complete all 6 modules required for the Level 5 Early Learning and Care Major Award.
Best for: learners ready to work towards a full childcare qualification.
Full 6-module award
QQI Code: 5M22413
Flexible study options
LEVEL 6
ELC Level 6 Starter Pack
Begin with 2 modules before continuing towards the full Level 6 Major Award.
Best for: learners who already have Level 5 and want to begin Level 6 gradually.
2-module starter route
QQI Code: 6M22411
Flexible study options
LEVEL 6
ELC Level 6 Advanced Award
Complete all 6 modules and build towards Room Leader or supervisory progression.
Full 6-module award
QQI Code: 6M22411
Flexible study options
LEVEL 5 & 6
Combined ELC Level 5 & 6
Work towards both awards through one structured route from entry to progression.
12-module pathway
QQI Code: 5M22413 & 6M22411
Flexible study options
All Forus Training ELC awards are QQI accredited and
recognised nationwide. Need help choosing?
Contact our team — we’re here to help.
Gain respected Level 5 and 6 awards for roles in early learning and care settings.
Choose Live and Online for scheduled trainer classes, or Online Anytime to study at your own pace.
Learn from trainers with real early years experience and practical sector insight.
Get guidance before you enrol, during your course, and as you plan your next step.
Progress from entry-level childcare roles toward room leader or supervisory positions.
Choose QQI Level 5, progress to Level 6, or follow the combined Level 5 & 6 route toward
supervisory, room leader, or management roles.
LEVEL 5
Begin with a QQI Level 5 qualification and build the foundation for working in early learning and care settings.
LEVEL 6
Already have Level 5? Progress to Level 6 to deepen your knowledge and prepare for senior ELC roles.
LEVEL 5 & 6
Choose the combined Level 5 & 6 route if you want one clear pathway from entry level to progression.
I completed my Level 5 and 6 in Early Learning and Care with Forus Training and found them fantastic. The course material and LMS were easy to follow, and the schedule was flexible. My trainer was really supportive and knowledgeable. This childcare course helped me gain employment in the ELC sector. I highly recommend Forus Training as they make dreams come true!
Level 5 & 6 Graduate
Clare was an excellent tutor who was consistently supportive and encouraging throughout the course. She was so friendly and made everything easy to understand, which helped me feel more confident in myself and my work. For the first time, I felt learning was enjoyable. I’m very grateful for her genuine care during my time with Forus.
Level 5 Graduate
I completed my Level 5 Early Learning and Care with Forus and found the course incredibly achievable and well structured. The learning portal was easy to navigate and the tutors were very supportive, creating a positive environment. It was
such a rewarding experience that I went on to complete my Level 6. I gained real confidence in my abilities and my career
Level 5 & 6 Graduate
After completing my Level 5 with Forus and having such a wonderful experience with Amanda and Clare, I chose Forus again for Level 6. The support from Amanda, Amy and the team was amazing. They replied quickly, guided me every step of the way, and made distance learning feel easy, supportive and well-structured.
Level 5 & 6 Graduate
Learn with experienced Trainers who understand the sector and support
your progress.
Head of ELC Department
& Trainer
Brings extensive hands-on experience as a Room Leader, Manager, SNA and AIM Support Worker
ELC Programme Lead
& Trainer
BA in Early Childhood Studies with strong experience in leadership and inclusive practice
ELC & SNA Trainer
Over 12 years’ experience as a preschool teacher and facility manager. Holds a BA (Hons) in Childcare and LINC
