As the need for skilled professionals in disability and ageing support sectors grows, pursuing a Certificate III in Individual Support has become both more popular than ever, and more needed than ever.

This qualification prepares you to meet the demands of this rewarding field. And those demands are rising very fast as there may be a shortage, and the population gets older. To choose a career in which you can make a living but also give back is what many are beginning to look towards. So, with that in mind, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Certificate III.

Course Overview and Objectives

The Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability & Ageing) equips learners with crucial skills to really do well when it comes to providing compassionate care. This course emphasises person-centred support, meaning that you will learn how to assist individuals based on their specific needs.

But beyond the individual, the certificate goes into how to operate effectively within a multidisciplinary team. The curriculum covers essential areas such as individualised support, promoting independence and wellbeing, as well as recognising healthy body systems. By the end of the course, you should be prepared for diverse roles in community and residential care settings.

Eligibility and Entry Requirements

So, to enrol, candidates must be at least 18 years old and hold an Australian citizen or permanent resident. A completed education equivalent to Year 10 or an AQF Certificate II is also required.

Applicants must demonstrate suitable language and numeracy skills in order to manage course demands and complete workplace documentation. This isn’t anything too advance, particularly regarding the maths.

Basic computer literacy is of course needed to navigate online modules, but this goes for most online learning. It’s worth noting that a clear NDIS Worker Screening Check, a valid Police Check, and up-to-date immunisations (i.e. COVID-19) are very much needed. So, make sure to have all this covered before you begin your application.

Application Process

You can apply for Certificate III in Individual Support on the Hader Institute’s website or wherever you have decided to do so. Fortunately, they’re all a similar process. You will maximise your chances of success by ensuring there are no spelling mistakes, that you successfully pass the English/Maths assessment (i.e. brush up on the basics beforehand), and read all communication carefully. It’s possible to apply for recognition of existing skills that are related to units in the program, but this is a case-by-case basis.

Following your application, you’ll engage in a Pre-Training Review conducted remotely in order to verify your qualifications meet the entry requirements, as well as undergo assessments to evaluate your language and numeracy skills. This is just to ensure you’re prepared for the course’s demands on a very rudimentary level.

Course Duration and Structure

Many of these certificate courses are delivered online, and they have a 12-month length. But, this is complemented by (mandatory) practical placements which accumulate to 120 hours. This is just to ensure you’re not dependent on theory, but know how to put this into practice.

The course is divided into 9 core units that cover fundamental skills and 6 electives that allow for specialisation in areas tailored to your career goals. This blend is theoretical and practical.

Conclusion

A career in individual support through the Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability & Ageing) offers profound personal and societal benefits. The certificate not only leads to professional development but also allows you to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals who need it most.

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