Disability Care Skills  

Module Description

The module begins by exploring the different types of disabilities, including physical disabilities (such as, mobility impairments and sensory disabilities), intellectual disabilities (namely, Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorders), and developmental disabilities (such as, cerebral palsy). Students will learn how these disabilities affect an individual’s daily life, including their ability to communicate, move, and participate in social and economic activities. 

A key focus of the module is on the person-centred approach to disability care, which focuses on the importance of tailoring care to the individual’s needs, preferences, and abilities. To this end, students will explore techniques for promoting independence and autonomy. 

The module also covers the emotional and social aspects of disability care. Students will learn how to provide emotional support to individuals with disabilities, helping them to navigate the challenges of living with a disability and cultivating a sense of inclusion and empowerment.  

Ethical issues in disability care will also be addressed, including the rights of individuals with disabilities, issues of informed consent, and the role of advocacy in ensuring access to services and opportunities.  

Entry Requirements

• A qualification at MQF Level 4 (one ‘A’ Level or equivalent) in Care or a related field and English Language at MQF Level 3 (‘O’ Level or equivalent). 

• In the case of students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning is found then the applicant could still be accepted on the course. Such RPL process will subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA College, so as to verify their experiences and prior learning. 

*Students whose first language is not English and do not possess an ‘O’ level pass in English Language will be required to demonstrate English language capability at IELTS level 6.0 or equivalent.

Target Audience

The programme targets the following groups:  

• Individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional knowledge in the field of care. 

• Individuals wanting to pursue a wide range of career paths within the care profession. 

• Individuals seeking to enhance their ability to interpret, assess, and communicate care-related information. 

• Individuals already working in care who wish to progress to more advanced positions.  

• Individuals aiming to continue their studies in health and social care at higher levels. 

Career Paths

This qualification prepares students for advanced roles in direct care provision, including:  

• Senior Care Assistant 

• Community Support Worker 

• Mental Health Support Worker 

• Pediatric Care Assistant 

• Personal Care Assistant 

• Disability Support Worker 

• Palliative / End-of-Life Care Worker 

• Rehabilitation Support Worker 

• Residential Care Worker

How you’ll be assessed

The course comprises:

• Evening classes for part-time courses.
• Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
• Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
• Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.

Assessment

Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:

• Formative Assessment
• Summative Assessment

The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.