Aim
The Healthcare Assistant course provides students with the knowledge, skills, and competence to work under supervision in providing support in a variety of healthcare settings or to progress to further and higher education and training.
This course aims to provide students with the knowledge, skills and competence to work as a healthcare professional under supervision. An interest in working as a Healthcare Professional is important, and work experience in the area would be an advantage.
Entry Requirements
Leaving Cert or its equivalent. For mature students, life and/or work experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications.
An interest in working as a Healthcare Professional. Work experience in the area would be an advantage.
Programme of Study
Elective Modules
- Care Skills
- Care of the Older Person
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Rehabilitation Support
Core Modules
- Care Support
- Communications
- Work Experience (120 hours may be required)
- Infection Prevention and Control
Additional Training
First Aid Responder and Patient Moving & Handling are also offered.
Work Experience
Supervised clinical experience in nursing homes, hospitals, and other health facilities is incorporated into this course. Students will be required to undertake Garda Vetting prior to work placements commencing.
Career Opportunities
The Healthcare Service Skills award is the Department of Health’s recommended qualification for all Healthcare Assistants working in the public and private sector. Graduates have excellent career opportunities in a variety of healthcare settings.
Progression
Graduates who achieve the required standard may progress to further studies in the FET sector at level 6 or to IT Colleges/Universities through the Higher Education Links Scheme as outlined in this brochure.
