This course is suitable for both mature students and school leavers who would like to pursue a fulfilling and rewarding career providing care and support to vulnerable people in the community, but who do not necessarily wish to be a healthcare/special needs assistant.
The aim of the course is to provide students with a knowledge and understanding of social care theories and best practice, and the opportunity to gain employment in the sector or progress to further or higher education.
Students on this course complete a work experience placement, in a two week block, in a range of caring situations, such as working with elderly people, people experiencing/recovering from addiction, people with mental health issues, disadvantaged youth or people with physical or intellectual disabilities.
| College | City of Dublin FET College Ballyfermot |
| Course ID | 203200 |
| Course Location | Ballyfermot, Dublin |
| Location Postcode | Dublin 10 |
| Course Type | Classroom Based |
| Course Qualification | Level 5 Certificate |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| Awarding Body Details | QQI Level 5 Certificate in Community Studies |
| Course Start Date | 16th September 2026 |
| Course End Date | 28th May 2027 |
| Course Duration | 1 Year |
| Course Fee | €150 |
| Entry Requirements | Standard minimum entry requirements for all courses in this college Minimum statutory school leaving age (16+) CERFL proficiency at B2 for access to Level 5 and Level 6 courses for those whose first language is not English. Additional requirements may apply to non-EU/EA Applicants and may be subject to full international fees. Please refer to Information for international students. A PPS number is required for registration. Please refer to How to get a Personal Public Service (PPS) Number. The academic entry requirements may be waived for mature applicants (21+) Minimum entry requirements for all level 5 courses QQI Level 4 award or equivalent Five O6/H7 in Leaving Certificate/LCVP or a Merit in Leaving Certificate Applied or a relevant QQI Level 4 certificate |
| Career Path | Graduates with a Merit profile may apply for entry to the Advanced Certificate in Social Care Studies Level 6, (SVC) in BCFE. Graduates of this course may also apply through the CAO and/or the Higher Education Links Scheme for entry to higher and advanced certificate and degree programmes at national Institutes of Technology, Technological Universities and Universities (applicants should confirm linked awards and eligibility requirements with the relevant Higher Education Institution). While many graduates from this course progress onto further education, some progress immediately into employment in a variety of care and community |
| Course Code | SCH |

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