Course description
Course Outline
This course is designed to train community workers to provide a range of services for clients and implement health promotion and community interventions in workplaces such as community based organisations, residential rehabilitation and outreach services. At the completion of this qualification students will be able to design and deliver programs that enhance individual and group wellbeing. Training combines both theoretical study and practical experience in the industry.
Duration
At Bass Coast Campus this course is offered on a full-time basis over one year or part-time over two years. Classes may be scheduled over five days a week from February to November excluding school holidays and students are expected to complete assignment and project work outside these times. During placement periods students will be required to be available every working day. The course commences in February 2009.
Entrance Requirements
There are no formal academic requirements; however, students will require a moderate level of reading, writing and interpersonal communication skills to complete the course.
Application and Selection Procedure
To apply, please contact the campus directly. Applicants will be interviewed and places offered in
the course based on suitability for employment in the community services field. Applicants will be required to undertake a basic literacy and numeracy test. Successful applicants will be required to obtain a police check.
Information sessions will be held at the campus on the corner of White and South Dudley Roads, Wonthaggi.
Study Areas
To gain this qualification, students must successfully complete the following subjects:
CHCCD12D Apply a community development framework
CHCCOM3C Use specialist communication skills to build strong relationships
CHCCS3C Coordinate the provision of services and programmes
CHCCS301A Work within a legal and ethical framework
CHCCS402A Respond holistically to client issues
CHCCS405A Work effectively with culturally diverse clients and co-workers
CHCORG5B Maintain an effective work environment
CHCINF2B Maintain organisation’s information systems
CHCOHS302A Participate in safety procedures for direct care work
CHCMH1B Orientation to mental health work
CHCDIS1B Orientation to disability work
CHCAOD2B Orientation to alcohol and other drugs work
HLTFA301B Apply advanced first aid
CHCAC15A Provide care support which is responsive to the specific nature of dementia
In addition students undertake 200 hours of supervised practical placement in a community services setting. Placement may require students to travel out of the local district.
Assessment
-Observation in class by teacher
-Workplace observation by assessor
-Interviews to assess underpinning knowledge and competence
-Written tests in class
-Reports, essays and assignments
-Oral presentations
-Resource folders
Recognition of prior learning and Credit Transfer
You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) if you are assessed as having sufficient experience in life, work experience or meet the requirements for modules or competencies based on formal or informal education.
If you have completed modules or competencies that are the same, or deemed equivalent, as specified in a curriculum document such as a Training Package, either in a different course or at another registered training organisation locally or internationally, you may be eligible for a credit transfer. If you think you are eligible for RPL or credit transfer please discuss this with staff at the selection interview.
Career Opportunities
-Community support worker
-Detoxification worker
-Case worker
-Drug and alcohol worker
-Support worker
-Health education officer
-Welfare support worker
-Outreach officer
-Family support worker
-Mental health worker
-Drug and alcohol counsellor
-Domestic violence worker
Further Study
Graduates from the Certificate IV in Community Services Work will gain credit towards a range of Diploma level courses in the community services field.
Support Services
Support is available to students in a range of areas including Study Skills, Personal Counselling, Careers Advice and Disability Support. Contact Student Advisory Services for more details.