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Job description

The Early Learning and Childcare Academy is an intensive 10 week training course providing practical knowledge and real-world experience required to work in the sector and will take place in person at Belfast Met, Castlereagh Campus Participants will develop skills including play facilitation, observation techniques, storytelling, child development inclusive practice, manual handling and fire safety. Those selected for the Academy will also study accredited training modules including: safeguarding, first aid, and food hygiene. Participants will also study an OCN Level 2 qualification in Infant Mental Health. This accredited qualification will provide participants with a deeper understanding of early childhood development, including the importance of secure attachments, emotional well being, and the impact of early experiences on long-term development. It will also equip learners with practical strategies to support infants’ social and emotional needs within a childcare setting. There will also be an opportunity to put these skills into practise during 6 days of placement. This supervised engagement with children will allow participants to apply their learning in real-world settings. Participants will receive a weekly training allowance of £185 for the duration of the academy, as well as help with travelling and childcare expenses where people qualify. If you successfully complete the Academy, you will be guaranteed a job interview with a supporting company. An interview is not a guarantee of a job. Training will take place from Monday 28 September until Friday 18 December 2026 at Belfast Met's Castlereagh campus. Training takes place from 10 am to 4 pm every weekday, with days on campus, and on placement. Successful applicants must be available for the whole of the training period.

Responsibilities

• Practical training to prepare participants for work in Early Learning and Childcare.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Applicants must: be at least 18 years old and have a right to work and to undertake Assured Skills Training in the UK at the point of application and not be disqualified from doing either by reason of their immigration status.

Desirable Skills

• Whilst there are no minimum level of qualifications required to apply for the Early Learning and Childcare Academy, preference will be given to applicants with Level 1 or higher English and Maths (equivalent to GCSE D-G).

Further Information

The online application form must be completed by NOON on Friday 14 August 2026. Location: Belfast, Newtownabbey, Glengormley, Dundonald, Bangor, Holywood, Lisburn, Lurgan, Portadown