Certificate IV in Disability Support

Transform your dedication to uplifting communities into a rewarding profession by enrolling in the CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support – a comprehensive educational program designed to empower. In response to the increasing necessity for specialised skills in this sector, the Australian Government is enhancing support and resources, leading to an anticipated substantial growth in the demand for qualified disability support workers in the coming years. Embark on a path of meaningful change and seize the opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Your journey towards a future filled with purposeful contributions begins here.

Giving back to your community can be very rewarding‍

Dive deep into a transformative educational journey tailored for individuals eager to make a profound impact in community settings and individual homes, specifically focusing on supporting those with disabilities. This course is meticulously designed to impart learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to help individuals with disabilities find a greater sense of independence, heightened self-reliance, enriched community involvement, and overall improved wellbeing.

By adopting a person-centred approach, learners will not only learn the importance of considering each individual’s unique needs and aspirations but also how to work cohesively according to and potentially contribute to specialised individualised plans. The program offers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling graduates to confidently operate in their roles without direct supervision. For those with leadership aspirations, the curriculum provides insights into supervising and potentially leading a cohesive small team.

Our rigorous program ensures that graduates are not only equipped with the best knowledge and skills but also groomed to be pioneers in advocating for a more inclusive, understanding, and supportive community framework.

Join us in this empowering journey, where every lesson learned contributes to a brighter future for individuals with disabilities and the communities they thrive in.

Who is this online course for?

The ideal learners for the CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support are those who possess a profound desire to work closely with individuals with disabilities within community settings or private homes. These learners are driven by a passion to contribute to the welfare of others and are committed to empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve their highest potential. They understand that such a role goes beyond mere support—it is about enriching lives and fostering independence, making a tangible difference in the day-to-day experiences of those they assist.

Prospective students should be aware of the physical demands associated with a career in disability support. The role can be physically involved, requiring one to aid clients with their personal care, mobility, and other physical needs, which may include tasks such as bathing and performing household chores. Therefore, a certain level of physical fitness and a willingness to undertake such tasks are crucial for those considering this path. It is not just about the ability to perform these tasks but to do so with a sense of empathy and respect for client dignity.

Interpersonal skills are equally vital for a disability support worker. The role necessitates a natural ability to connect with a diverse range of individuals, demonstrating patience, empathy, and a non-judgmental approach. The capacity to remain composed under pressure and the aptitude for teamwork are key traits that enhance service delivery and client support. Learners not currently working in the disability sector are required to undertake a minimum of 40 hours of practical experience in a relevant setting, ensuring they have real-world exposure to the complexities and rewards of the job. The Hader Institute of Education stands ready to assist in coordinating such placements for those without a current suitable workplace, guaranteeing that every student gains the hands-on experience needed to excel in this profoundly impactful career.

What will you learn online?

Embark on a rewarding educational voyage with the CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support, your stepping stone to making a substantial difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. This course is meticulously structured to equip you with the specialised skills and knowledge needed to provide tailored support, enhance autonomy, and foster an inclusive environment for people with disabilities.

Throughout this engaging program, you will gain a deep understanding of person-centred approaches and the nuances of disability support. Learn the art of creating and implementing individualised plans that respect the choices and needs of each person, while also ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Develop proficiency in empowering individuals with disabilities through effective communication, promoting community participation, and understanding the complexities of their unique situations.

Prepare yourself for a truly impactful career in the disability sector, with competencies that will enable you to not only meet but exceed the expectations of this dynamic role. The Certificate IV in Disability Support offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, ensuring you are well-prepared to contribute to and enhance the quality of life for those you will support. With this qualification, you’ll open doors to a fulfilling career path that is as challenging as it is rewarding, leaving a lasting positive imprint on your community.

Student entry requirements

Completion of: CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) OR
Completion of: CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) OR
Completion of: CHC30408 Certificate III in Disability PLUS the CHCSS00125 Entry to Certificate IV in Disability Support Skill Set.

The following local entry requirements apply to ensure applicants can fully engage in the course and have the required learning capacity to meet the course requirements. Learners must:

• Be at least 18 years of age.
  
• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
  
• Have completed their education to a level which is equivalent
  to Year 10 or has completed an AQF Certificate III level qualification.
  
• Be capable of completing 40 hours of work placement in a community services or home services, supporting people with a disability.
  
• Have suitable language, literacy and numeracy skills to read and comprehend learning materials and perform tasks related to recording workplace documents including reading and writing detailed reports, case notes, reports and other documents, interpreting workplace policy and procedure and reporting hazards.
  
• Learners are required to pass the ACSF LLN test at the required level in reading, writing and numeracy
  
• Have sound computer skills to navigate simple software to complete the online component of this course and must be able to use intermediate level Word features in order produce and present word-processed documents/ reports.
  
• Have access to a laptop or computer, and internet to complete the online course and attend virtual classroom sessions.
  
• Have a valid Working with Children Check/Blue Card (or be prepared to obtain this prior to work placement)
  
• Have a valid Police Check (or be prepared to obtain this prior to work placement)
  
• Have a current and clear NDIS Worker Screening Check as per your state/territory
  
• Have the required immunisations, including COVID-19 vaccination, as required to attend the placement facility. Please note, additional immunisations may be required given Government or placement facility’s health policy changes.

Complete a Pre-Training Review interview either in-person or via phone/ zoom. The entry requirements will be confirmed through information collected during this interview.

How will you learn online?‍

Holistic Blended Learning Approach

Experience a comprehensive learning journey through our innovative blended delivery model, expertly designed to cater to diverse learning styles. This engaging approach seamlessly integrates various elements to provide you with a well-rounded education:

• Synchronous Online Classroom Sessions: Immerse yourself
  in Trainer-led, synchronous online classroom sessions that foster real-time interaction and engagement. These are held weekly for 3 hours in the evening.
  
• Structured Self-Paced Online Study: Utilise our platform for structured, self-paced online study, enabling you to grasp the material at your own pace while maintaining your commitments.
  
• Dynamic Skills Development and Practice: Elevate your skills during dedicated interactive sessions that encourage hands-on learning and practical application. ‍
• Real-world Work Placement: Gain invaluable real-world experience through a comprehensive 40 hours work placement, equipping you with practical insights and industry exposure.
  Complementing this comprehensive training are personalised one-on-one unit progression mentoring sessions, tailored to your unique needs. The entire program spans 46 weeks ( 12 months), thoughtfully divided as follows: ‍
• 40 Weeks: Engage in scheduled class training and assessment, ensuring a strong foundation of knowledge and skills. ‍
• 4 Weeks Break: Enjoy well-deserved breaks, with 4 weeks at the end of the year allowing you to recharge. ‍
• 1-2 Weeks Work Placement: Embark on a 40 hours work placement, gaining practical experience and industry connections.

Seize this holistic educational opportunity that blends theory, practice, and real-world exposure to propel your career forward.

Online Learner Support

Hader Institute provides support to all learners through the trainer and the Hader Institute Learner Support Officer.

Online Assessment requirements

The assessment is conducted using a combination of realistic workplace tasks, projects, knowledge tests, response to case studies and completing practical demonstrations. The following provides a brief explanation of the assessment methods that are to be applied: Written tasks; Case Study; Practical Activities and Demonstrations through Zoom or other online platforms.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applicants can apply for recognition of their existing skills and knowledge that are relevant to the units of competency within the CHC42021 Certificate IV in Community Services. See the Hader Institute of Education Learner Handbook and policies and procedures.

Possible careers include:

• Social Educator (Disability),
• Day Support Disability Officer,
• Marketing Coordinator (Disability),
• Local area coordinator,
• Social trainer,
• Disability Team Leader,
• Disabilities Supervisor,
• Project Officer,
• Disability Support Assistant (Schools),
• Job coordinator,
• Disability Service Officer,
• Senior Disability Worker,
• Lifestyle Support Officer,
• Senior Personal Care Assistant,
• Community Development Officer,
• Support Facilitator (Disability),
• Behavioural Support Officer