Healthcare Support QQI 5
Programme Aim
This course is delivered over two years on a part time basis one day per week. It is the qualification required to work in a registered care setting, hospital or in the community as a HCA.
The aim of this programme is to enable the learner to acquire the knowledge, skill, and competence to work independently and under supervision in providing support in a variety of Healthcare settings and or to progress to higher education and training.
Work placement / work experience may be a core feature/element of programmes in this field facilitating the enhancement of employability and transversal skills.
Target Award
QQI Healthcare Support – 5M4339
Start Date: 29-08-2025 Hours/week: 05 Hrs 00 Mins Duration: 35 weeks
NFQ Level 4 or equivalent when accessing a Level 5 programme.
CERFL proficiency at B2 for access to Level 5 courses for those whose first language is not English
Mature learner entry requirements available via the local ETB pathway
Additional requirements may apply to non-EU/EEA Applicants and may be subject to full international fees (Please refer to Information for International Learners)
*Each provider may have additional requirements, not outlined above.
Age Requirements
Minimum statutory school leaving age (16+)
Learning Aptitude
Applicants must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
Previous Experience
Applicants must be able to demonstrate a moderate range of knowledge, skills and competencies relevant to the course, be able to work with responsibility and demonstrate the ability to work on their own initiative.
| Module | Award | Body |
|---|---|---|
| Safety And Health At Work | Safety & Health at Work (5N1794) | QQI |
| Care Skills | Care Skills (5N2770) | QQI |
| Infection Prevention And Control | Infection Prevention & Control (5N3734) | QQI |
| Care Of The Older Person 5N2706 | Care of the Older Person (5N2706) | QQI |
On completion of this programme learners will have the skills, knowledge and competencies to work independently and under supervision in providing support in a variety of Healthcare settings and or to progress to higher education and training.
1. To facilitate the learner to explore the role and responsibilities of a healthcare assistant in
the provision of total and holistic care for older people in various care settings
2. To create an awareness in the learner of the importance and relevance of quality assurance
and excellent service in the provision of care for older people.
3. To enable the learner to demonstrate a range of appropriate verbal and nonverbal skills in
order to meet the communication, social, emotional, intellectual and personal needs of an
older person.
4. To enable the learner to develop the confidence and care skills including personal reflection
skills required to work with older people.
5. To assist the learner to develop the academic and vocational language, literacy and
numeracy skills related to Care of the Older Person through the medium of the indicative
content
6. To enable the learner to take responsibility for his/her own learning
Employability Statement
On completion of this Programme, learners may pursue roles within the Health, Family and Social Care sector which may include working as Health Care Support Workers, Carers, Youth Workers or in a broad range of roles in this industry in the public, community and private sectors. Recognition of regulatory and statutory bodies is confirmed for some programmes.