DURATION
One year full time.

INTRODUCTION

This is a one year full-time course offering a practical and theoretical introduction to those wishing to explore and develop their knowledge of social issues & practice. It equips the student with the basic skills to work in Community Agencies e.g. Family Centres, Youth Organisations, Community and Voluntary Organisations. This course may also assist applications to certain third level institutions.

Main areas of study may include:

• Social Studies
  Sociology, research, social issues.
• Human Growth & Development
  Psychology of Childhood, Adolescence and the Elderly.
• First Aid Course
  Occupational first aid.
• Legal Studies
  Family Law, Children and the Law, Visits to Courts and Criminal Justice System.
• Care, Provision & Practice
  Developing skills as a carer with groups including the Elderly, the Marginalised, the Physically and Mentally Challenged. Practical Youth Leadership Learn to lead & plan group games and activities for youth.
• Word Processing
  All students are equipped with basic computer skills.

SPECIAL FEATURES

Over the years, one of the strong features of this course is the range of work experience on offer to the student. Links with Family Centres, Youth Organisations and a variety of other Community Groups provide a practical element essential to this course. Professional guest speakers, videos and organised visits to local centres are an exciting addition to the course. All teaching staff who have relevant practical experience in their particular areas deliver the course in a helpful and sensitive way, involving role plays, debates, and discussion groups.

Work Experience

Students spend one day a week on work experience. Previous students have had experience in Crèches, Literacy Groups, Play Groups, Youth Clubs and a wide range of Voluntary organisations. Supervision is provided both through the agency and the college.

FEES
Exam Fees – FETAC Level 5: €50
PLC Contribution (Dept. of Ed. and Sk. Fee): €200
Student Services: €200
Total: €450

WORK EXPERIENCE

Students spend one day a week on work experience. Previous students have had experience in Crèches, Literacy Groups, Play Groups, Youth Clubs and a wide range of Voluntary organisations. Supervision is provided both through the agency and the college.

CAREER PROSPECTS

This course offers the opportunity to work in a number of voluntary and caring agencies. Links provided through work experience have led to students becoming full-time care assistants or youth workers.

FURTHER EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Graduates from this course may wish to continue their interest in Social Studies or to pursue a course in Youth and Community work.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Applications are sought from those with experience in Voluntary or Community Organisations. School leavers will be considered on evidence of relevant work experience. All applicants will be interviewed and places awarded on the basis of suitability.

CERTIFICATION

• National Certificate - FETAC (NCVA Level 5) in Community & Health Services (NCVA award code:DCHSX)
• College Certificate (City of Cork VEC)
• Occupational First Aid Certificate

COURSE DIRECTOR

- Heather Faris