Level 5 Diploma Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) (Top-Up) (15 ECTS)

Overall Course Description

One of the goals of this program is to provide students with the advanced pedagogical knowledge, professional competencies, and practical abilities needed to work effectively as Kindergarten Educator II (KGE II) with children aged three to five years. The curriculum also strives to improve students’ understanding of early childhood education by emphasising reflective practice, child-centered learning, and evidence-based educational techniques.

The course addresses important aspects of early childhood education such as professional identity, modern pedagogies, emergent curriculum design, critical perspectives in early childhood education, leadership within early childhood settings, and supervised professional practice. Students will gain the knowledge and confidence necessary to construct inclusive, developmentally appropriate, and engaging learning environments while collaborating with children, families, and interdisciplinary professionals.

This programme aims to further professionalise the early childhood sector by teaching students to be reflective, competent, and autonomous practitioners who understand how young children learn and grow. The combination of theoretical knowledge with workplace-based learning encourages learners to critically analyse educational practice, use contemporary pedagogical ideas, and positively contribute to children’s holistic development.
The course is designed primarily for persons who want to advance to the position of Kindergarten Educator II (KGE II) and expand their professional practice in kindergarten settings. Its primary goal is to prepare graduates to confidently take on increasing responsibility for children’s learning, development, and well-being while also contributing to high-quality early childhood education.

Upon successful completion, graduates will be equipped to:

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of child development, contemporary pedagogical theories and effective early childhood education practices.
2. Design, implement and evaluate developmentally appropriate learning experiences that respond to children’s individual interests, strengths and needs.
3. Apply reflective, analytical and evidence-informed approaches to improve teaching practice and educational outcomes.
4. Critically evaluate historical and contemporary pedagogical approaches and apply them appropriately within early childhood settings.
5. Develop and implement emergent curriculum approaches that promote children’s active participation, creativity and holistic development.
6. Foster inclusive learning environments that respect diversity, children’s rights and equitable educational opportunities.
7. Build effective partnerships with parents, families, colleagues and multidisciplinary professionals to support children’s learning and wellbeing.
8. Demonstrate leadership, collaboration and professional responsibility within early childhood education settings.
9. Apply ethical, professional and reflective practice when responding to the diverse needs of children, families and educational communities.
10. Integrate digital technologies, research and reflective practice to support continuous professional development and enhance educational practice.
11. Successfully apply theoretical knowledge through supervised workplace practice, demonstrating competence as a Kindergarten Educator II (KGE II).

Overall, the program prepares students to take on professional responsibilities as Kindergarten Educator II (KGE II), providing them with the knowledge, practical competence, and professional values required to provide high-quality early childhood education while promoting children’s learning, development, and well-being.

Furthermore, the course is taught using simultaneous online lectures, interactive discussions, case studies, self-directed learning, workplace-based practice placement, and ongoing access to a virtual learning environment. These teaching approaches offer students an interesting, adaptable, and practice-oriented learning experience that effectively combines academic study with professional application in real-world kindergarten settings.

Target Audience

This curriculum is aimed for individuals who wish to advance their careers in early childhood education by attaining the knowledge, professional skills and pedagogical competencies required to operate as Kindergarten Educator II (KGE II). It is specifically created for learners who already possess a recognised qualification in early childhood education and wish to graduate to a MQF Level 5 qualification that enables them to meet the academic criteria for employment within kindergarten settings.

It also helps practitioners improve their understanding of child-centered pedagogies, curriculum development, reflective practice, leadership, professional ethics, and inclusive educational approaches, as well as their ability to support children’s overall learning and development.

This program is best suited for students who want to advance their knowledge of early childhood education, educational philosophies, emergent curriculum, professional leadership, collaborative practice with families and multidisciplinary teams, and evidence-based teaching approaches.

The programme is taught fully through online learning, allowing flexibility for employed practitioners and adult learners who want a study schedule that suits both professional and personal commitments. In addition to academic study, learners conduct supervised professional practice, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge within authentic kindergarten situations and exhibit the competences needed of a Kindergarten Educator II (KGE II).

Applicants are expected to satisfy the programme entry requirements, including possession of a recognised MQF Level 4 qualification in Early Childhood Education or an equivalent qualification recognised by the relevant authorities, together with any additional admission requirements established by the institution and the applicable regulatory bodies.

Programme Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Level 5 Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Top-Up) for Kindergarten Educator II (KGE II) will be prepared to use advanced pedagogical theories, contemporary early childhood education practices, and evidence-based approaches to support young children’s holistic learning, development, and well-being. They will be able to critically assess historical and contemporary educational philosophies, analyse national and international early childhood policies, and create developmentally appropriate learning experiences that incorporate child-centered, inclusive, and emergent curriculum approaches.

Graduates will have the professional knowledge and practical skills needed to observe, assess, and respond effectively to specific learning needs in children, all while encouraging active involvement, creativity, inclusivity, and meaningful learning experiences. They will be able to organise, administer, and evaluate educational programs that are tailored to children’s interests, developmental stages, and various backgrounds, while also cultivating strong connections with families, colleagues, and multidisciplinary experts.

Throughout the program, learners will improve their critical thinking, reflective practice, communication, and leadership skills, allowing them to make successful contributions to high-quality early childhood education environments. They will also gain confidence in evaluating educational practice, supporting collaborative working, advocating for children’s rights and well-being, demonstrating ethical and professional behaviour, and engaging in ongoing professional development through research, reflective learning, and effective use of digital technologies in educational settings.

Module Learning Outcomes

D.1 Professional Identity of the Early Childhood Educator – 5 ECTS | MQF Level 5

This program helps learners establish a strong professional identity by exploring the role, responsibilities, and ethical obligations of early childhood educators in today’s educational contexts. Learners will critically examine professionalism, reflective practice, values education, and inclusive practice, as well as enhance their awareness of the benefits of cooperation, lifelong learning, and professional growth. The program also helps learners reflect on their own professional practice, make ethical decisions, interact effectively with colleagues and families, and apply professional norms that promote high-quality early childhood education.

D.2 Pedagogies of Early Childhood Education – 5 ECTS | MQF Level 5

This module helps learners understand the historical and present pedagogical theories that have influenced early childhood education. Students will critically assess the contributions of notable educational theorists and examine the connection between pedagogical ideologies, educational policy, and classroom practice. The program allows students to evaluate national and international pedagogical approaches, apply theoretical knowledge to professional practice, and create reflective and evidence-based teaching techniques that support children’s overall learning and development.

D.3 The Emergent Curriculum in Early Years: Preparation and Application – 2 ECTS | MQF Level 5

This module provides learners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to design, implement, and evaluate emergent curriculum approaches in early childhood education settings. Learners will look at child-centered, process-oriented, and inquiry-based curriculum planning approaches, as well as the Reggio Emilia and Project Approach models. The module teaches learners how to plan flexible learning experiences based on children’s interests, effectively document learning, evaluate curriculum implementation, and create meaningful educational environments that promote active participation, creativity, and collaborative learning.

D.4 ECEC: Analytical Discourse – 2 ECTS | MQF Level 5

This module teaches students to critically examine current debates, philosophies, and ethical perspectives on early childhood education. Students will investigate issues such as care ethics, children’s rights, diversity, inclusion, educational policy, and professional identity while developing critical thinking and reflective practice skills. The module also improves students’ ability to analyse educational theories, apply research to professional practice, and critically evaluate the social, cultural, and political factors that influence early childhood education and care.

D.5 Leadership for ECEC – 2 ECTS | MQF Level 5

This module allows students to critically examine current debates, philosophies, and ethical perspectives on early childhood education. Students will investigate topics such as care ethics, children’s rights, diversity, inclusion, educational policy, and professional identity while developing critical thinking and reflective practice. The module also improves students’ ability to analyse educational theories, apply research to professional practice, and critically evaluate the social, cultural, and political influences on early childhood education and care.

D.6 Practice Placement – 15 ECTS | MQF Level 5

This module allows learners to integrate and apply their theoretical knowledge, pedagogical principles, and professional skills learned throughout the program in an authentic kindergarten setting. Learners will engage in supervised professional practice, allowing them to critically reflect on their experiences, evaluate their own performance, and demonstrate the competencies expected of a Kindergarten Educator II (KGE II). The module helps learners design and implement developmentally appropriate learning activities, compile professional teaching resources, assess children’s progress, and tailor educational experiences to individual learning needs. Learners will improve their confidence, professional judgement, and ability to deliver high-quality early childhood education by engaging in reflective practice, professional dialogue, and practical application, as well as preparing children for a successful transition to primary school.

Programme Structure

Hours of Total Learning

The program carries 15 ECTS, or 375 total learning hours, based on the principle that 1 ECTS equals 25 total learning hours, which includes contact hours, supervised practice placement, self-study, and assessment hours. The program combines synchronous online learning, independent study, and supervised professional practice to ensure that learners acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies for the qualification.

Overall Programme

Breakdown by Module