Early Years FAQs: Early Learning & Care and Therapeutic Play Skills

We understand that choosing the right qualification is a big decision, especially when you're balancing work, family commitments, and study.

In this blog, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about our Early Learning & Care (ELC) courses and Therapeutic Play Skills programme, including entry requirements, work placement, and career progression. Whether you're starting out in Early Years or looking to build on your existing experience, this guide will help you understand your options.

If you have a question about Early Learning & Care courses, you can book a call with our admissions advisor Jennifer Matteazzi, or email Jennifer.matteazzi@portobelloinstitute.com.

Early Learning & Care (ELC) FAQs

What is the minimum qualification required to work in an Early Years setting?

A QQI Level 5 Major Award in Early Learning and Care is the minimum qualification required to work in an Early Years setting in Ireland.

Do you offer a Montessori course?

Yes. A Montessori module is included as an elective within the QQI Level 6 Early Learning & Care programme.

What qualification do I need to open my own Early Years setting?

To open and operate your own Early Years setting, you must hold a QQI Level 6 Major Award in Early Learning and Care.

Is this qualification internationally recognised?

Yes. This QQI-accredited qualification is internationally recognised.

However, if you plan to work abroad, you should always check the specific requirements of the country you intend to work in, as regulations may vary.

Are there exams at the end of the course?

No. Our programmes are assessed through continuous assessment and assignments, rather than a final exam.

This allows learners to apply their knowledge while developing practical skills relevant to working in Early Years settings.

Can my work as a full-time nanny count towards the work placement requirement?

No. Learners must complete 150 hours of work placement in a Tusla-registered Early Years setting in the Republic of Ireland.

Placement must include experience with two different age groups:

• Children aged 0–2 years 8 months
• Children aged 2 years 8 months to 5 years
• Parents
• Nurses
• Doctors
• Special Needs Assistants
• Early Years practitioners
• One focused on Therapeutic Play Skills
• One on Sand Play and Creative Arts, which is included free of charge as part of the course
• The benefits of therapeutic play
• Emotional and behavioural challenges experienced by children
• Therapeutic play techniques
• Creative approaches including sand play, art, music, storytelling, and other expressive methods
• Adjustment difficulties
• Attachment issues
• Mild behavioural challenges
• Low self-esteem

Can I complete the work placement in another country

No. Work placement must be completed in an Early Years setting in Ireland.

Portobello Institute will provide an insurance form for the placement setting and a feedback form for the employer to complete and return.

Why do I need a PPS number to complete the course?

A PPS number is required by QQI for registration on accredited programmes.

Learners who provide a PPS number will receive their official QQI certificate, while those who do not will receive a Portobello Institute Certificate of Completion.

Therapeutic Play Skills FAQs

Can I work as a play therapist after completing this course?

No. This course does not qualify you to work as a play therapist.

It is a QQI Level 6 Minor Award (6N4705) in Therapeutic Play Skills.

After completing the programme, learners may work as therapeutic play practitioners or play specialists in settings such as schools, recreational environments, or care settings.

Does Portobello Institute offer Play Therapy at a higher level?

Currently, we do not offer a higher-level Play Therapy programme.

However, Portobello Institute offers Level 6, Level 7, and Level 8 Early Childhood Studies programmes, and many learners choose to specialise in Play Therapy after completing these qualifications.

I am currently studying a Level 7 degree. What is the progression route into Play Therapy?

After completing a Level 7 BA (Ordinary) Degree, learners must progress to a Level 8 BA (Hons) Degree.

Following completion of the Level 8 qualification, students can apply to institutions that offer Year 1 and Year 2 Play Therapy training programmes.

Do I need to be working in a setting to complete this course?

No. You do not need to be working in an Early Years setting.

Learners come from a wide range of backgrounds, including:

How many assignments are required?

Learners must complete two assignments:

How long do I have to submit my assignments?

Learners typically have 3–6 months to submit their assignments, although many complete them shortly after finishing the 12-week programme.

How many credits does the course carry?

This course carries 15 QQI Level 6 credits.

Students gain knowledge in areas such as:

What will this course qualify me to do?

This course prepares learners to work as Therapeutic Play Practitioners.

The focus of the role is to support children’s development through therapeutic play interventions that help address:

The course is based on a social and educational model, supporting development and building resilience rather than providing medical treatment.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

We hope this overview gives you a better understanding of our Early Learning & Care and Therapeutic Play Skills programmes and the opportunities available.

If you have any questions or would like help choosing the right course, our admissions team will be happy to help.

If you have a question about these programmes, you can book a call with our admissions advisor Jennifer Matteazzi, or email Jennifer.matteazzi@portobelloinstitute.com.

You can also explore our courses and upcoming intakes by visiting our Early Years faculty.