Course Summary
Course Category: Direct Entry (Higher Education - HET)
The BA (Ord) Early Childhood Care & Education is a level 7 degree, awarded by University of Essex, designed for early years professionals who want to progress their qualifications while continuing to work full-time.
Delivered through blended learning, the programme supports work-study balance through structured online learning, evening webinars, and one-to-one tutor support. Students are also required to complete 450 hours of placement in an early years setting each academic year.
The degree meets the Professional Award Criteria and Guidelines set by the Qualifications Advisory Board (QAB) and is recognised by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality (DCDE).
Graduates are eligible for the DCDE Graduate Premium, are qualified to work in graduate-led early years settings, and gain the knowledge, professional skills, and confidence required for leadership and community-based roles.
Students who hold a QQI level 6 Advanced Certificate in Early Learning & Care (or equivalent) can complete the programme in two academic years through a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) entry route.
Portobello Institute is also participating in the 2026 Nurturing Skills Learner Fund (NSLF) for eligible learners, subject to NSLF eligibility, application timelines, and funding availability.
- Awarding body: University of Essex
- Qualification outcome: BA (Ord) Early Childhood Care & Education (NFQ level 7)
- Key progression note: Graduates meet professional award criteria, qualify for the DCDE Graduate Premium, and may progress to level 8 honours degree programmes in early childhood education.
Further Information
Book a call with Career Pathway Consultant Limin Bai to discuss study options.
Funding and payment plan information is available.
Course Details
This course prepares you for working in the following Career Sectors:
What will you study?
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Year 1:
Promoting Holistic Development of Children (0-12 yrs)
Pedagogical Approaches and Practice Frameworks for Early Childhood Education
Becoming an Educator, Academic & Professional Skills
Reflective Practice & Professional Development (Placement Portfolio)
Year 2:
Leadership Skills for Inclusive Practice
Leading & Managing Services for Children
Childhood in Society
Evaluating Policy & Practice: Themes & Debates
Professional Development in the Community of Practice
Important
- Colleges may add/remove modules to keep the course updated and to meet demands.
Progression to CAO Courses
The Student - Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Creative
Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.
Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.
