Course Location and Contact Information

Course Description

This training is based on the National Community Services/Aged Care competency standards and reflects nationally endorsed industry requirements. The purpose of this training package is to provide training to direct care workers in aged care services. These workers provide services to aged people and the ultimate goal of this relationship is a state of health, well being and independence appropriate to the aged person's needs and desires. Services are also delivered within policy and procedure frameworks of accredited aged-care facilities.

Career Opportunities

This course provides training for aged care workers in hostels, nursing homes, group homes and supported accommodation services.  This certificate enables people to gain employment in home and community care funded agencies that have frail aged and younger people with disabilities in their client group.

Course Duration

Part-time or Full-time: This is a 540 hour course. It is delivered over 12 months with classes 1 day per week (part-time group starts in July). Students enrolled in the 12 month course must also complete 180 hours of practical placement as part of the 540 hours.

Traineeship: This is a 540 hour course. It may be undertaken over 1 - 2 years requiring a 0.5 - 1 day per week or 1 evening per week (starting 1 month after signing contract) commitment.

Course Commencement Dates

February and finishes late November.

Entrance Requirements

Participants must have sufficient spoken and written English skills to satisfy the requirements of the role and enable them to benefit from the skill development occurring during their training. Participants must also have sufficient maturity to undertake the role of the direct care worker which requires insight and problem solving abilities usually only gained with life experience. Early school leavers may find it difficult to meet these requirements. Applicants must attend selection interviews.

Traineeship: Students must be employed by an Aged Care Work employer. Minimum work hours: 15 hours per week.

Application Procedures

Apply directly to the department.

Skills Recognition - Exemptions/Transfers

Students may be eligible for exemptions/transfers on the basis of previous qualifications.

Pathways to Further Study

Participants successfully completing this course may apply for entry into the Certificate IV in Aged Care Work in training organisations where this is delivered.

Course Outline

CORE

CHCAC1C Provide Support to an Older Person (50 hrs)
CHCAC2C Provide Personal Care (50 hrs)
CHCAC3C Orientation to Aged Care Work (50 hrs)
CHCAC6C Support the Older Person to Meet their Emotional and Psychological Needs (90 hrs)
CHCAC15A Provide Care and Support which is Responsive to the Specific Nature of Dementia (60 hrs)
CHCCOM2B Communicate Appropriately with Clients and Colleagues (20 hrs)
CHCINF8B Comply with the Information Requirements of the Aged Care and Community Care Sectors (40 hrs)
CHCOHS302A Participate in Safety Procedures for Direct Care Work (30 hrs)
CHCORG3B Participate in the Work Environment (20 hrs)

ELECTIVE UNITS

HLTFS7A Follow Basic Food Safety Procedures (20 hrs)
CHCCS303A Provide Physical Assistance with Medication (50 hrs)
HLTFA2A Apply Advanced First Aid (30 hrs)
CHCCS405A Work Effectively with Culturally Diverse Clients and Co-workers (30 hrs)

Assessment Methods

Competencies will be assessed in a variety of modes including workplace demonstration of skills and knowledge, written pieces and classroom activities.

Materials

All materials are supplied by the Health and Community Studies Department at a cost of $79 (flat rate) per student.

Qualification

As part of the Australian Qualifications Framework this program is nationally recognised. On successful completion students will be awarded the Certificate III in Aged Care Work.

Links

Information & Enrolment Sessions
Fees
Contact Health & Community Studies

Aged Care and Home & Community Care Podcast

The Victorian Government makes a significant contribution to these programs.