Introduction to Care
COURSE INFORMATION:
Place of Study: Shetland College UHI, Lerwick
Mode of Study: Full time
Length of course: Full time: 1 year
Start Date: August 2011
Entry Requirements: Standard grade English at General or above plus the required level of maturity to work in a care environment. An Enhanced Disclosure check must be completed before commencing this course.
COURSE SUMMARY:
This foundation course will help students make an informed choice about a future career in care. There are a variety of subjects covered within the course including: an introduction to psychology and sociology (in relation to human development and the effects of society); the study of values and principles that underpin care work; and an introduction to issues facing individuals with mental health problems. There are also more specific units such as: supporting older people within the community and working with individuals with special needs, which look at developmental changes and supporting services available to these groups. In addition, students will also have the opportunity to learn about health and safety issues specific to care environments.
COURSE CONTENT:
- Values and Principles in Care, Psychology for Care and Sociology for Care
- Communications, Information Technology and Numeracy
- Preparing to Work with People with Special Needs
- Recognising and Reporting Abuse and Challenging Behaviour in a Home Care Setting
- Mental Health: An Introduction
- Contributing to Health and Safety in the Workplace
- Supporting Elderly People in the Community
- Child Development and Health
HOW WILL I STUDY?
With short lectures, group discussions, internet-based courses, individual exercises and personal study. Students also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through placement within a care environment. Each unit is assessed within the college or in the workplace plus an external exam.
GOOD REASONS TO STUDY THIS COURSE:
- Good work experience opportunities
- Great insight into different areas of care work
- Learn core skills and improve knowledge
- Good foundation course
- All lecturers within the department are experienced practitioners within their field, which enables us to work from the same values base and view students holistically
STUDENT QUOTE:
"An interesting, enjoyable and entertaining course with a side dish of great social life!" Mathew Lloyd.
STAFF QUOTE:
"The introduction to care course can give students who are coming out of school or back into the work place after a long break the opportunity to gain an insight into the varying options within the care sector." Susan Berry, Lecturer.
PROGRESSION:
Academic: Access to NC Early Education and Childcare, Access to Nursing, Psychology Higher or Access to Social Work.
Employment/Career: Care-related areas i.e. Care Assistant. (When in employment, work-based training can be taken through the Shetland College UHI, leading to further qualifications).
Former students have: Found employment in Social Care and moved onto Access courses.
