Community work is undertaken by socially aware, energetic and highly motivated people who want to be actively involved in creating social change for disadvantaged individuals and groups.

This exciting and newly developed course provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to become creative and dynamic agents of change so that they might help and encourage individuals and groups within communities to realise their full potential and to have their voices heard by decision-makers.

This highly rewarding work involves working in partnership with the community and other stakeholders to develop resources and encourage social inclusion.

The course also offers the possibility of pursuing Higher Education options in related areas such as Community & Youth Work, Applied Social Care and Applied Social Studies in Social Care.

Are you motivated by a desire to help address inequalities and facilitate change? If so, then this course is for you.

Course Director: Garett Evers

Year 1

• Applied Understanding of Human Behaviour and Development
• Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Demonstrating Professional Principles and Values
• Sociological Approaches
• Law, Policy and Ethical Practice
• Fundamentals of Evidence Based Practice
• Community Development Principles and Practice

Year 2

• Reflective Approaches in Implementing Person Centered Planning
• Investigating Innovative Approaches to Practice
• From Conflict to Resolution
• Developing Effective Helping Relationships
• Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults
• Social and Community Services in Criminal Justice Practice
• Community Development Practice

Course content may be revised for educational or organisational reasons.

BTEC : Higher National Diploma in Social and Community Work  (Integrated Health & Social Care)

Minimum Entry Requirements

Leaving Certificate: O6/H7 in 4 subjects plus at least one O2/H6. Subjects must include English and Maths.
or QQI relevant Level 5 Award: Merit
Equivalent qualifications will be accepted.

Mature Applicants

Mature applicants who have relevant industry experience and may not meet the above requirements are welcome to apply.

Interview

All applicants will be interviewed.
Applicants may be asked to satisfy the college as regards their English proficiency.

Graduates of the course can potentially find employment in the state as well as in the community based sectors, working with children and young people in residential care, older people, people with dependency issues. Organisations in which students have secured employment include, Cerebral Palsy Ireland, Cheeverstown House, Menni Services and Barnardos.

Community Work Diploma graduates could potentially seek employment in Community Development Projects, and apply for degrees in Community and Youth Development, and Community & Youth Work.