February 13, 2009 - 1:49am
Are you interested in exploring a new career assisting people with disabilities?
Vancouver Island University is hosting a free information session for the School and Community Support Worker program on February 17 at the Nanaimo campus.
The new 10-month certificate program trains people to work as Education Assistants in public school system and in community settings.
“The job is as unique as the students we support,” said Spencer Harbo, a VIU alumnus who works as an Education Assistant for the Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District. “In an elementary school, you could be helping a student with basic reading and math skills. In a high school setting, you might assist a student with social or life skills.
“Sometimes the job entails reading to or scribing for students with physical disabilities, or taking kids on community outings such as swimming, skating, bowling, or job experience placements. I love the fact that my job changes every day.”
Harbo works with children with a wide range of physical, behavioural or emotional disabilities. “The goal is to use my experience and knowledge to help the people I support become as independent as their abilities allow,” he said.
Working with people with disabilities isn’t a suitable career choice for everyone, Harbo added. “It’s best suited for people who are patient, flexible and willing to adapt to new situations and environments,” he said. “Being open-minded is the main attribute you should have, along with a willingness to learn about the people you support and yourself.”
The new School and Community Support Worker Program is an amalgamation of two previous programs – the Special Education Assistant program and the Community Support Worker program.
“It made sense to streamline these two programs into one because the knowledge, skills and aptitude required to work with people with disabilities is similar whether you work in a school or community setting,” said Leif Rasmussen, an instructor in VIU’s Health and Human Services Faculty.
“The new program includes a good mix of theoretical studies and hands-on learning. The course content provides students with an understanding of challenging conditions, citizenship and human rights, and interpersonal skills. Students also acquire skills in teaching and learning strategies, and supporting behaviour across the lifespan for individuals with disabilities.”
Rasmussen said graduates can expect to find employment in the public school system or in a variety of community settings, including day programs, or residential homes that support people with disabilities.
Students who complete the program will receive a Vancouver Island University certificate which may allow graduates to transition into other Human Services diplomas and degrees.
The 36-credit certificate program is offered on a full time basis over 10 months, followed by a practicum. A part-time option is also available for people who are working. Courses are offered to allow completion in 10 months (two semesters and intersession)
To find out more about VIU’s new School and Community Support Worker program, come to the free information session at the Nanaimo campus, Building 180, Room 134, on February 17 at 7:30 pm. For more information, contact Advising at 250-740-6410.
Tags: In the Community
