Diploma of Community Services

Skills to support my community

Reasons for studying Community Services at Chisholm
- Many employers regard our graduates has highly desirable due to quality of the teaching and learning - Students receive high levels of support by skilled and experienced staff to ensure success

Why study community services?

Studies in Community Services provide the knowledge and skills required for a meaningful and rewarding career in supporting people to identify and respond effectively to their issues. By applying the principles of social justice you can help ensure people in your community are empowered to deal with personal and family concerns and access their rights and services. If you want a range of professional skills with the ability to deal effectively with the complexity of people's lives then the Diploma of Community Services is for you.

- Learning is holistic and celebrates the diversity of learners

Career
Graduates will possess of broad range of hands on foundation community work skills and knowledge, providing them with job opportunities across the entire community sector. You could find work in a range of community focussed services from small community centres to larger government settings. Possible roles include: - welfare officer - group facilitator worker - women's projects coordinator - migrant support professional

What is Chisholm's Diploma of Community Services?

You will develop a range of foundational skills and knowledge required to work effectively in the community sector. You will gain: - an understanding of the principles and philosophy of commmunity development - extensive knowledge of the community sector - knowledge about social policies, poverty, gender issues - an ability to work effectively with small and large groups - skills in undertaking casework and basic counselling

When will I study?

Chisholm Institute's Diploma of Community Services can be studied full-time over two years or part-time over four years at our Dandenong or Frankston campuses. Full-time students will attend day-time classes with fellow students from a diversity of backgrounds who all share a passion for improving our world. Part-time students will have the option of both day and night class and all students will have the opportunity to develop their skills further in real workplace placements.

How will I learn?

Teacher: Nicola Naughton

As joint Program Coordinator for the Community Development and Welfare programs, Nicola derives much satisfaction observing students move through the course, go on to complete the diploma, and then out into the workforce. Nicolas teaching philosophy is informed by her first-hand experience witnessing the many inequalities found in British society during Prime Minister Margaret Thatchers government in the 1980s. It was a pivotal time in my life that shaped my career aspirations, she recalls. With plenty of work available, Nicola notes that Chisholms graduates easily secure long-term employment, following placements with community houses, crisis centres, Department of Human Services and family support services plus numerous other welfare organisations. Nicola keeps up with industry trends by attending conferences, local and regional forums and has strong networks within the community sector. Im also involved in the Peninsula Network Against Family Violence which is a passion of mine for 15 years now, she says.This involves monthly meetings and includes various agencies including legal, health, child protection and family services.

Students will enjoy the diverse range of learning methods used both within the classroom and workplace settings. Projects, group work, multimedia, and library study are some of the specific learning modes for students. All students will undertake two different 200+ hour work placements which provide the opportunity to put learning into practice. Teachers recognise that all students come to the class with rich life experience

Entry Requirements
All applicants are required to attend a 2 hr information session and complete an application form. In addition applicants are required to attend a 2 hr group interview and undertake a short written task to determine eligibility. You must be able to demonstrate appropriate paid or unpaid work experience in the community services sector.

Costs
What will it cost me if I qualify for a government subsidised place? In 2012 students will pay a set tuition fee for evey hour they are enrolled. There will also be a small student services ammenities fee. Can I apply for a loan for my fees? Elgible students may apply for Vet Fee Help to receive a loan for their tuition fees. More details about fees will be provided at the information session.

How to Apply
For more information apply directly to Chisholm Institute, Dandenong campus by phoning 9212 5208. Or to Frankston campus on 9238 8296.