Prepare for support work in intellectual disability services
Practical knowledge, confidence and a recognised qualification for supporting people with intellectual disabilities, in residential, day and community settings.
What this course gives you
Intellectual Disability Practice is a 120-credit QQI Level 5 major award. It builds a real understanding of intellectual disability, community inclusion, empowerment, communication and learning support, grounded in professional practice rather than theory alone.
A work experience module places you in a disability service before you finish, so you graduate having done the work, not just read about it.
This course is for you if you are
- Drawn to support work in disability services
- Already supporting a family member and want recognised training
- Working in care and moving towards disability or special needs settings
- Interested in community inclusion and day services work
- Planning further study in social care or healthcare
Course modules
Eight modules make up the 120-credit award: six mandatory and a choice of electives.
Mandatory modules
- Intellectual Disability Studies5N1652
- Community Inclusion5N1740
- Empowering the Individual5N1749
- Facilitating Learning5N1753
- Communications5N0690
- Work Experience5N1356
Elective modules include
- Understanding Special Needs5N1709
- Challenging Behaviour5N1706
Entry requirements
- Leaving Certificate, a Level 4 Certificate or equivalent in a relevant subject area
- Garda vetting is mandatory for healthcare placements
- English proficiency around CEFR B2+ is recommended, since classes and materials are in English
Where this award can take you
Disability services across Ireland need qualified support workers.
Training that respects the work
Person-centred from day one
Dignity, empowerment and inclusion are the spine of the course, not a module.
Supportive teaching
Clear guidance and tutors who understand adult learners.
Real sector relevance
Placement in a genuine disability service before you finish.
Intellectual Disability Practice, answered
How is this different from Healthcare Support?
Healthcare Support is general care work: hospitals, nursing homes, home care. This course is specialist preparation for supporting people with intellectual disabilities, covering inclusion, empowerment and facilitating learning. If your heart is in disability services, this is the more direct route.
What settings would I work in afterwards?
Graduates work in residential services, day services, community inclusion programmes and family support settings. The work experience module gives you time in a real service before you decide which setting suits you best.
Is Garda vetting really required?
Yes, without exception. Anyone on placement with vulnerable people must be vetted, and that protects the people you will support as much as the service. We guide you through the process, and if you have lived outside Ireland for six months or more, international vetting may also be needed.
I care for a family member. Will the course recognise that?
Your experience will absolutely help you, and it is worth mentioning when you enquire. Recognition of prior learning is assessed individually, so the honest answer depends on your situation. Ring us and we will talk it through properly.
Apply for Intellectual Disability Practice
Send your details and we will guide you through requirements, vetting and the next intake. Or ask a question first.