PLC - Post Leaving Certificate Aim of the Course: This is a one year, childcare course created to implement candidates to work as members of a proficient team in the area of the marvel that is childhood. Course Description: This course introduces students to a general working enlightenment and understanding of children in early childhood. Candidates acquire childcare practices from babies needs through to the age of seven. Entry Requirements: Candidates are expected to be of Leaving Certificate or equivalent standard. Aptitude, interest and experience in Childcare will be taken into account and selection is on the basis of an interview. Entry is at the discretion of the College. The course is open to CTOS applicants and mature students. Assessment: A programme of continual assessment will be in operation. Assessment involves module assignments, projects, portfolios, examinations and work placement reports. Certification: National Council for Vocational Awards - Childcare Award Level 2 Certificate in First Aid - Order of Malta Career Opportunities: Many students work and home and abroad in creches, playschools, montessori schools, day care centres for children, and other related areas. On satisfactory completion of the course, students may apply for further educational opportunities such as: Diploma in Social Studies - Sligo and Athlone IT. Nursery Nursing Course - N.N.E.B. (A two year course) B.T.E.C Montessori Teacher Training Course MEC Grants: There is a possibility grants will be provided for PLC's. These will probably be in line with other third level grants, but final details are still being worked out by the Department of Education. Quotes From PLC Students: "I really enjoyed this childcare course. I found that it gave me a better idea about working with children and I would recomment this course to any students who is interested in the childcare area." - Fiona Hargadon "The work experience was very worthwhile and gave me a great insight into the world of work and young children. I also feel I made a lot of new friends on the course." - Michelle Gilgin Application forms are available from: The Secretary, Mercy College, Sligo. Tel: 071-43476 Fax: 071-46038 L.C.V.P. - Leaving Certificate L.C.A. - Leaving Certificate Applied Transition Year Special Repeat Class