Certificate in Leadership, Mentoring and Business for the Early Years Sector
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OPENING SOON FOR February 2026 ENTRY
Course Overview
The aim of this programme is to support & engage early years’ educators/managers and supervisors in ethical, democratic leadership and effective management that promotes sustainable development in the early year’s sector. The programme is designed and developed to facilitate educators working in the early years sector who wish to obtain knowledge and skills through work-based learning in authentic contexts and where assessments are linked to practice. The programme supports participants in their career readiness as competent leaders and managers of high-quality provision in Early Childhood Education and Care settings
Career Opportunities
The employment prospects for these graduates will be greatly enhanced by having a Level 7 Special Purpose Award qualification. Possible positions of employment will include:
- Supervisors or managers in Early Years settings
- Pedagogical Leaders within Early Years settings
- Open own Early Years setting
Course Delivery and Modules
This one-semester (12 weeks) programme is delivered predominantly online, with live online lectures on Tuesday evenings from 6.00pm to 9.30pm, commencing 24th February.
In addition, face to face classes in DkIT will be delivered from 09.00hrs to 16.30hrs on 3 Saturdays namely,
- 7th March
- 25th April
- 23rd May
Please note this timetable is subject to change
This module is designed to explore and develop leadership skills essential for effective leadership and management in early childhood education and care settings. The module emphasizes reflective practice, the role of the leader in fostering an inclusive and empowering learning environment, and strategies to lead high-quality learning experiences for children. Students will develop a deep understanding of leadership theories, styles, and strategies, with an emphasis on promoting collaborative relationships, engaging families and communities, and supporting continuous professional development in the field of early childhood education
This module aims to provide students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and understanding of mentoring practices within early childhood education. The focus will be on supporting the professional development of early years educators through effective mentoring strategies. Students will explore the theoretical foundations of mentoring, apply these in practice, and critically evaluate the impact of mentoring on individual and organizational growth, including supporting education for sustainable development in the early years setting.
The aim of this module is to provide students with a strong foundation of management theories & practices whilst exploring how these can be applied to early years settings. In addition, strategies & skills for the co-ordination of the effective operation of a sustainable, ethical and legislatively compliant Early Years setting will be examined and co-constructed.
Education Progression
Graduates may be eligible to apply for the BA in Applied Early Childhood Studies.
BA in Applied Early Childhood Education and Care [Advanced Entry to Year 2 Only]
BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education and Care
Fees and Funding
Total course fee: €625, payable as follows:
- €200 Accept Offer fee (non refundable)
- Balance of €425 payable by 31st March
Fees
Entry requirements
- Applicants should have a QQI level 6 major award in Early Childhood Studies or equivalent
- Currently employed in a supervisory role/manager/educator in a Tusla Registered ECEC / SAC setting
Student Stories
View all Student Stories
Caron Hourigan
How to apply
Apply for this course using our online applications system as per below. You must also upload a completed Employer Support Form (.docx) with your application.
Ask us a Question
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Disclaimer: All module titles are subject to change and for indicative purposes only. All courses are delivered subject to demand and timetables are subject to change. Elective Module options will only run subject to student numbers. The relevant Department will determine the viability of each elective module option proceeding depending on the number of students who choose that option. Students will be offered alternative elective modules on their programme should their preferred elective option not be proceeding. Award Options for Common Entry Programmes: The relevant Department will determine the viability of each award option proceeding depending on the number of students who choose either option. If the numbers for one of the Award options exceed available places, students for this option will be selected based on Academic Merit (highest grades).