Become qualified for healthcare assistant roles in Ireland
A recognised route into healthcare assistant and care support work. Practical training, live classes and real work experience, built for adults starting or changing careers.
What this course gives you
The Healthcare Support major award is a 120-credit QQI Level 5 qualification. It gives you a practical foundation for working under supervision in hospitals, residential care, community care and home care settings.
You learn the skills the work actually needs: communication, care support, care skills, and safety and health at work, with a work experience module that puts you into a real healthcare setting before you finish.
This course is for you if you are
- Changing career into healthcare from another field
- Already caring for someone and want a recognised qualification
- A school leaver looking for a practical route into work
- Working as a healthcare assistant without formal certification
- Planning further healthcare education and need the foundation
Course modules
Eight modules make up the 120-credit award: five mandatory and a choice of electives.
Mandatory modules
- Communications5N0690
- Care Support5N0758
- Care Skills5N2770
- Work Experience5N1356
- Safety and Health at Work5N1794
Elective modules include
- Infection Prevention and Control5N3734
- Care of the Older Person5N2706
- Palliative Care5N3769
Entry requirements
- Leaving Certificate, a Level 4 Certificate or equivalent in a relevant subject area
- Garda vetting, required for healthcare placements
- English proficiency around CEFR B2+ is recommended, since classes and materials are in English
Where this award can take you
Graduates work under supervision in a wide range of care settings.
Built for adults returning to education
Student-centred support
Tutors who know that most learners juggle work, family and study.
Healthcare-focused teaching
Taught by people with real healthcare experience since 2005.
Clear guidance throughout
From the first enquiry to placement, you will know what comes next.
Healthcare Support, answered
Do I need experience in care to start?
No. The course is designed to take you from no formal care background to qualified. Many of our learners are career changers. If you already have caring experience, formal or informal, it will help you, but it is not required.
How is the course assessed?
Assessment is continuous across the modules, through assignments, skills demonstrations, projects and exams depending on the module, rather than one final exam. Assessment is run under our QQI-agreed quality assurance procedures, including external authentication of results.
Where does the work experience happen?
Work experience takes place in a real healthcare setting such as a nursing home, hospital or community care service. Garda vetting is completed before placement, and we support you through the paperwork.
Can I do this course while working?
Yes, most learners do. Classes run live over Zoom on a set schedule with classroom days for practical skills, so you can plan work and family around them. Contact us for the current timetable before you commit.
Apply for Healthcare Support
Send your details and we will guide you through entry requirements, vetting and the next intake. Or ask a question first, that is what we are here for.