This is an advanced course suited to participants who would like to work in the Early Years sector and   who have   an   interest in Outdoor Education and Forest Leadership.   This course would give students confidence and skills to take children outdoors to experience the benefits of nature based play and it will also help the participants gain a greater understanding of Forest Schools.

Duration One year

Certification:  QQI Level 6 Early Childhood Care and Education 6M2007

Introductory Certificate in Forest School Education from Earth Force Education in association with the Irish Forest School Association

Principal Areas of Study:

v  Child Development

v  Early Years Curriculum, to include: Froebel. Montessori Steiner and Forest School philosophy

v  Childhood Social and Legal Studies

v  Work Experience

v  Team Leadership

v  Early Learning Environment

v  Early Childhood Arts and Culture

v  Adventure Activities

(Modules may be subject to change)

Features of the Course

Qualifies the student to work as team leader in Early Years Environments

Intensive college programme three days a week

Forest School element will be delivered in a woodland or natural setting

The philosophy of Forest School Education will be explored.

Team building exercises

One day work experience in an Early Years environment

Outdoor First Aid

Garda Vetting for work experience (See Page 43)

Progression:

Higher Education (See Page 41)

Entry Requirements

This course is open to student who have achieved an overall merit profile in QQI 5Award in Early Childhood Care and Education or the equivalent.

This requirement may be waived at the discretion of the college for mature students with prior experience or academic ability.