At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in childcare through a 10-week intensive training programme.
- Company: Join a supportive network of leading childcare organisations.
- Benefits: Receive a weekly allowance, travel support, and guaranteed job interview upon completion.
- Other info: Dynamic training environment with opportunities for further study through an Apprenticeship Programme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while building your career in childcare.
- Qualifications: Open to all 18+, no minimum qualifications required but preference for Level 1 English and Maths.
The predicted salary is between 24678 - 30162 £ per year.
If you're interested in a career in Early Learning and Childcare, 16 training opportunities are currently available. If you successfully finish the academy, you will have industry recognised qualifications, supervised childcare experience and be considered for a potential job role with one of the supporting companies.
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
- 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 wellbeing, 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 practice 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. Offers of employment will be solely at the discretion of the companies following the interview. When employed you will then have the opportunity to continue your studies through the Apprenticeship Programme.
Who can apply?
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
- not be disqualified from doing either by reason of their immigration status
Whilst there are no minimum level of qualifications required to apply for the Academy, preference will be given to applicants with Level 1 or higher English and Maths (equivalent to GCSE D-G).
How to apply
Apply online at: Early Learning and Childcare Academy 26/27 Cohort 2 Applications Closing Date Completed applications must be received by noon on Friday 20 November 2026.
Key dates
Information session and Interview dates Belfast Met will invite eligible applicants to an Online Information session week commencing 23 November and an interview week commencing 30 November 2026.
Training dates
Training will take place from Monday 04 January until Friday 19 March 2027 at Belfast Met's Castlereagh campus. Training takes place from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm, Monday to Friday on campus. Successful applicants must be available for the whole of the training period.
Company Information
The supporting companies participating in the Academy are:
- Sleepy Hollow
- Clear Day Nurseries
Living outside Northern Ireland
If you live outside Northern Ireland, by accepting an offer of a place on this pre-employment training academy, you are committing to attending training and pursuing a job opportunity in Northern Ireland. Applications are welcome from everyone who meets the essential criteria and are particularly welcome from people returning to work after caring for their children or other family members.
Help to apply
All correspondence with applicants will be through email. It is the applicant's responsibility to act on this within the given time frame.
Early Learning and Childcare Academy in Belfast employer: NI Civil Service
As a Senior Electrical Building Services Engineer at the Department of Finance in Belfast, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to delivering high-quality public services. The organisation fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and offers competitive salaries, alongside a commitment to equal opportunities. Working in Clare House provides a vibrant environment with access to various professional growth opportunities, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Learning and Childcare Academy in Belfast
✨Get Involved in Local Events
So, you’re diving into the world of adult continuing education? Make sure you hit up local workshops and seminars. These are trend spots for networking with educators, administrators, and community leaders who might give you the inside scoop on internships like the one at NI Civil Service.
✨Tap into University Resources
Utilise your university's career services—they often focus on connecting students with internships in education sectors. If you haven’t already, check for listings related to adult education or reach out to faculty for recommendations that might be tied to NI Civil Service.
✨Engage in Relevant Online Communities
Join online forums or LinkedIn groups specific to adult continuing education. Engaging in discussions can showcase your passion and knowledge, plus you might get wind of internship openings directly from seasoned pros in the field!
✨Showcase Your Commitment
Consider volunteering in educational settings, whether it’s helping out at local adult learning centres or tutoring. This hands-on experience can make your application stand out and demonstrate your commitment to the field when you apply for the internship at NI Civil Service.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Learning and Childcare Academy in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Passion for Education:In your application, let your enthusiasm for adult continuing education shine through. Share experiences – whether through tutoring, teaching, or even relevant volunteer work – that demonstrate your commitment to helping adults learn and grow. We want to see your drive for making a difference!
Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience:Think about the skills that are key to adult education, like communication, empathy, and adaptability. Include examples from your studies or any previous roles where you've used these skills effectively. Tailor your CV to highlight how you’ve facilitated learning or supported others in reaching their educational goals.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re a great fit for this internship. Talk about why adult continuing education excites you and what you hope to gain from this experience. Share your learning objectives, and how they align with our mission at NI Civil Service – let your motivation stand out!
Keep It Personal and Authentic:When writing, be yourself! We appreciate genuine voices that reflect individual experiences and aspirations. Personal stories about why you've chosen this field can make a real impact. Remember, we want to connect with you, so don’t be afraid to show your personality in every part of your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at NI Civil Service
✨Show Your Passion for Learning
In adult continuing education, showcasing your enthusiasm for lifelong learning is key. Be ready to talk about what drives you to help adults learn—share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your passion for education and how you believe it can change lives.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions where you might have to address specific challenges faced by adult learners. Think about ways to support diverse learning needs and be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills through real-world examples. This will show that you're not only knowledgeable but also empathetic and adaptable.
✨Highlight Collaborative Projects
Show that you're a team player by discussing any group projects or initiatives you've been part of. In adult education, we often work closely with colleagues and learners alike, so highlight your ability to collaborate and build effective learning environments, even if your examples come from coursework or volunteer experiences.
✨Emphasise Growth and Learning Potential
As an intern, your motivation to learn and grow is crucial. Be open about what you hope to gain from this experience at NI Civil Service. Articulate how this internship fits into your career aspirations in adult education and what skills or insights you wish to acquire while supporting the programme.
