Get the skills, knowledge and practical experience you need to start a career in the Individual Support (Ageing) sector, with Open Colleges’ CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing).
This course is superseded by CHC33021 Certificate III in individual Support (Ageing). For now, you may still enrol in this course, and we will transition you to the new course at no additional cost once it is available. We’ll be in touch closer to our launch date to give you more information about what this means for you. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions, as our friendly Enrolment Consultants are always happy to help.
Why study this course?
- This course will take you from beginner to professional Support Worker in a maximum of 12-months. You will get a solid education in the fundamentals of aged care and will graduate job ready.
- A structured work placement during your studies gives you practical experience in a real-world workplace where you can put your learning into practice and gain industry exposure.
- The course will qualify you to work in a variety of care roles, so you have a number of employment avenues you can explore, including: assistant in nursing, care worker, residential care worker and residential support worker.
- Studying with Open Colleges is fully flexible. You don’t have to give up your job or sacrifice your lifestyle to study. You simply login to the online campus to access all your learning materials, whenever and wherever you like, and make your way through the course at a pace that suits you.
- You will be supported through your studies by a team of experienced Trainers and Assessors, who are there to answer any questions you have and provide feedback on your progress.
| Course number | E1381 |
| Qualification name | CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) |
| Course duration | Self paced - maximum of 12 months |
| Recommended hours per week | 25.0 |
| Qualification level | Certificate III |
| Delivery method | Online with Work Placement (via OpenSpaceX) |
| Recognition | Nationally Recognised  |
| Assessments | Multiple choice questions, Workplace assessments, Written assessments |
| Awarded by | Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd (Provider number: 90197)  |
About the course
The industry
The past five years has seen strong growth in the aged and disability sector, with 221,400 workers currently employed.
Over the next five years, this number is expected to grow to 276,100 by 2025.
Source: Australian Government Job Outlook (https://joboutlook.gov.au/)
Who this course is for
This course is perfect for people who want to start a career as a Support Worker. It's also beneficial for those already working in the area but need to formalise their qualifications in order to take the next step in their career.
If you are an existing worker or have experience in the related industry, please inform our enrolment consultants during your enrolment conversation. You may be eligible to enrol as an existing worker and complete your studies faster. Please note - limitations do apply.
Potential career outcomes
- Accommodation Support Worker
- Aged Care Support Worker
- Care Assistant
- Community Care Worker
- Residential Care Worker
What you'll learn
During the course, you will learn:
- About the human body and how to support its healthy functioning.
- Important skills to comply with infection control.
- How to facilitate the empowerment of older people.
- How to work with diverse people
- Legal and ethical requirements for working in a care role
- The skills to meet personal client support needs.
- How to tailor support to meet the needs of individual clients.
- How dementia can affect a person, as well as strategies for communicating with, supporting, and monitoring a client with dementia.
- How to support client independence and wellbeing.
- How to work effectively within the health and community care sector.
- How to implement behaviour support strategies
- How to assist and support clients to participate in community settings.
- How to work safely when providing direct client care
Learning materials
Your learning materials are accessed through our online platform OpenSpaceX.
These learning materials include
- Learning content
- Media
- Additional resources
- Learning activities
- Self-checks
RTO partnership information
This course is offered by Open Colleges on behalf of Integrated Care & Management Training (provider Number 90197)
Academic information
Open Colleges may make changes to the course from time to time to reflect changes introduced to the relevant Training Package or other regulatory requirements. Please download the course guide for current information about the course and its status.
Module 1
| CHCCOM005 | Communicate and work in health or community services |
- Communicate effectively with people
- Collaborate with colleagues
- Address constraints to communication
- Report problems to supervisor
- Complete workplace correspondence and documentation
- Contribute to continuous improvement
Module 2
| CHCDIS002 | Follow established person-centred behaviour supports |
- Apply a person-centred approach to minimise behaviours of concern
- Review context of behaviours of concern
- Provide positive behaviour support according to individualised behaviour support plan
- Complete documentation
Module 3
| HLTWHS002 | Follow safe work practices for direct client care |
- Follow safe work practices for direct client care
- Follow safe work practices for manual handling
- Follow safe work practices for infection control
- Contribute to safe work practices in the workplace
- Reflect on own safe work practices
Module 4
| CHCDIS003 | Support community participation and social inclusion |
- Identify opportunities for community participation and social inclusion
- Implement strategies for community participation and inclusion according to the individualised plan
- Identify, address and monitor barriers to community participation and social inclusion
Module 5
| CHCCCS023 | Support independence and wellbeing |
- Recognise and support individual differences
- Promote independence
- Support physical wellbeing
- Support social, emotional and psychological wellbeing
Module 6
| CHCDIV001 | Work with diverse people |
- Reflect on own perspectives
- Appreciate diversity and inclusiveness, and their benefits
- Communicate with people from diverse backgrounds and situations
- Promote understanding across diverse groups
Module 7
| CHCLEG001 | Work legally and ethically |
- Identify and respond to legal requirements
- Identify and meet ethical responsibilities
- Contribute to workplace improvements
Module 8
| HLTAAP001 | Recognise healthy body systems |
- Work with information about the human body
- Recognise and promote ways to support healthy functioning of the body
Module 9
| CHCCCS015 | Provide individualised support |
- Determine support needs
- Provide support services
- Monitor support activities
- Complete reporting and documentation
Module 10
| CHCCCS011 | Meet personal support needs |
- Determine personal support requirements
- Maximise participation
- Provide personal support
- Complete reporting and documentation
Module 11
| CHCAGE001 | Facilitate the empowerment of older people |
- Develop relationships with older people
- Provide services to older people
- Support the rights of older people
- Promote health and re-ablement of older people
Module 12
| CHCAGE005 | Provide support to people living with dementia |
- Prepare to provide support to those affected by dementia
- Use appropriate communication strategies
- Provide activities for maintenance of dignity, skills and health
- Implement strategies which minimise the impact of behaviours of concern
- Complete documentation
- Implement self care strategies
Module 13
| HLTINF001 | Comply with infection prevention and control policies and procedures |
- Follow standard and additional precautions for infection prevention and control
- Identify infection hazards and assess risks
- Follow procedures for managing risks associated with specific hazards
Assessment details
- Multiple choice questions
- Workplace assessments
- Written assessments
Recognition of Prior Learning
We understand that you may already have many skills and areas of expertise that you have obtained in different ways and these are recognised through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process.
Our Credit Transfer & Recognition of Prior Learning Policy, available in the Key Student Information section of our website, provides more information about our RPL process. Alternatively, you can contact an Enrolment Consultant to discuss your RPL options.
Course duration
The duration for the course is self paced - maximum of 12 months. As a self-paced online course, the time it will take you to complete is flexible and dependent on ability and time available.
Qualification awarded
Upon successful completion of this course you will receive a nationally recognised CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) from Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd (Provider number:90197)
Work placement
What is a work placement?
A work placement is the part of your course where you learn and are assessed in a place of work related to your course which has been approved by Open Colleges.
At your work placement, you'll get practical, hands on experience under the guidance of your supervisor. Your supervisor will be someone with involvement in industry, who can mentor you during your placement.
What are the benefits?
- By undertaking a work placement you’ll get a chance to put the knowledge you’ve learned on your course into practice.
- You’ll also develop practical, on-the-job skills and could make contacts that could help you find a job once you graduate.
- Work placement is often the most rewarding part of a student’s course. Working face-to-face with clients and colleagues in your chosen field makes a huge difference to your career confidence.
How do I find a work placement?
You’ll need to find a work placement yourself and ensure it’s approved by Open Colleges. When looking for a suitable work placement host organisation, have a think about the following:
- Are you already working or volunteering in the industry your course is related to? You could potentially do your work placement at your current place of work or have contacts that could recommend a suitable work place. Ask around!
- If you’re entering a new industry, do some research and start thinking about organisations you could approach. We have plenty of resources available to help with approaching and finding a suitable work placement organisation.
Cost of work placement
All costs of work placement, including any placement fees charged by the host organisation (whether to the student or Open Colleges), cost of statutory checks and vaccinations, travel, accommodation, and uniforms are the responsibility of the student. These fees will vary and are dependent on your location within Australia.
- Costs for statutory checks will range between $0 - $100 dependent on the type of check you select and your state.
- Costs for vaccinations will very between practitioners, please refer to your GP for approximate costs.
- Placement fees will vary, please discuss this with your intended host organisation for approximate costs.
Work placement hours
You are required to complete 160 hours of work placement.
Work placement hours can be done part time or as a block, depending on the host organisation's requirements and availability.
Please note that you will not achieve any units of competency unless you have completed your work placement hours.
All costs of work placement including any placement fees charged by the host organisation (whether to the student or Open Colleges), cost of statutory checks and vaccinations, travel, accommodation, and uniforms are the responsibility of the student. These fees will vary and are dependent on your location within Australia.
Costs of Work placement
- Costs for statutory checks will range between $0 - $100 dependent on the type of check you select and your state.
- Costs for vaccinations will very between practitioners. Please refer to your GP for approximate costs.
- Placement fees will vary. Please discuss this with your intended host organisation for approximate costs.
Host organisation
Host Organisation
You will need to undertake your work placement in an aged care organisation such as residential aged care facilities, group homes, and respite care. The specific requirements of the workplace are outlined in the Workplace Assessment Guide which can be found in OpenSpaceX.
Open Colleges will need to ascertain whether the workplace you have chosen is appropriate before you commence your work placement hours. In some cases, you may be required to complete your hours at more than one host organisation.
Immunisations
Please note that your host organisation may require you to provide an up to date immunisation history prior to the commencement of your work placement. Open Colleges has no control over this requirement so if you are unable to provide this, you will need to discuss it with your intended Host Organisation.
It should also be noted that some immunisations, such as Hepatitis B and COVID-19, need multiple injections to be administered over a specific time period before you are deemed immune. It is important that you consult with your GP as soon as possible to avoid delays in starting your work placement.
Supervisor requirements
The workplace supervisor will need to:
- Hold a Certificate IV in Aged Care or equivalent, or
- Be an Enrolled Nurse or Registered Nurse, and
- Have at least 3 years industry experience
Recommendation
Open Colleges recommends that you consider the work placement options in your local area and any associated costs prior to enrolling in this course.Requirements
There are a number of statutory checks that may be required by workplaces, such as a
- National Police Check
- NDIS Worker Screening
- Working with Children Check (or state equivalent)
- Occupational Assessment
- Screening and vaccination against infectious disease including COVID-19, and
- Signing of Codes of Conduct, Confidentiality Agreements, or other declarations.
In addition, individual workplaces may impose additional requirements on students undertaking work placement. You will be responsible for the costs of any such checks or requirements.
Whilst it is not a requirement to hold a current First Aid Certificate to undertake work placement in the aged care industry, workplaces have the right to request this.
More information can be found in the Workplace Assessment Guide.
Requirements
Entry Requirements
There are no mandated education entry requirements for this qualification, per the CHC Community Services Training Package.
Students must be 18 years of age to enrol in this course.
It is also recommended that students
- Have language, literacy and numeracy skills that ensure the ability to read and comprehend technical terms and communicate effectively through email. These skills are equivalent to those that would be required to successfully complete year 12.
- Have access to a modern computer with high-speed internet.
- Have access to a device with audio / video playback capabilities.
- Have basic computing skills including the ability to make a short video.
Minimum age
You will need to be at least 18 years old.
Physical requirements
Students will need to be reasonably physically fit to undertake the work placement as the tasks and activities associated with the work placement may involve manual handling and other physical activities. Where first aid is a requirement of the host organisation, you will be required to complete 2 minutes of uninterrupted CPR on an adult manikin placed on the floor.
Language, Literacy and Numeracy
Our free online assessment tool can help give you an idea of the language, literacy and numeracy skills needed to study a VET course. This tool can also help you determine your learning level and help you plan your future studies. You can access the Language, Literacy and Numeracy tool here.
Payment options
Pay in Full
You can choose to pay your course fees in full upon enrolment and benefit from a 10% discount (unless otherwise advertised).
Pay 50% & Payment Plan Combo
You can also choose to pay 50% of your total course fees upon enrolment and the balance on a Payment Plan. When you do, you’ll benefit from 50% of the standard Pay in Full discount (unless otherwise advertised).
Payment Plan
You can choose to pay for your course in weekly or fortnightly instalments. By paying in instalments, you can schedule your payments around your regular outgoings and get ahead without breaking the bank. Open Colleges payment plans are interest-free.
BPAY®
With BPAY®, you’re able to pay quickly and securely, 24/7 through your internet, mobile or phone banking service. You can choose when, how much and from which account to pay from - whatever works for you. BPAY® is only available when paying in full. Call an Enrolment Consultant to find out more.
BPAY® is a trademark of BPAY Pty Ltd ABN 69 079 137 518. Check if BPAY® is right for you by reading the terms and conditions available from your Financial Institution.
Studying online with Open Colleges
Flexibility - study at your own pace
When you study online with Open Colleges you’re in control.
You can choose to complete your course quickly, or keep to a steady pace. Learning is fully flexible so you can fit your everyday commitments around your studies.
Everything you need to study is online so you can study wherever you like – but that doesn’t mean you’re on your own.
OpenSpaceX is our online learning platform. It’s where you’ll go to access your learning materials, contact your expert trainers and assessors and upload your assessments.
Your online community
What is OpenSpaceX?
Open Colleges offers you a custom-designed online-learning platform called OpenSpaceX.
Your learning platform is the heart of your study experience. This is where you'll navigate through your course materials, contact your trainers and assessors, and connect with other online students.
How to get support
Learning Support
The learning support team will be with you every step of the way, from enrolment to graduation. They’re here to help you get the most out of your online course. They can assist by providing non-academic support - like helping you craft an achievable study plan so that you can graduate in a realistic timeframe. If you’re finding it tough to stay motivated throughout your course, they’ll be there to help keep you on track.
Academic support
Your experienced trainers are available to answer any questions you may have regarding the learning materials or assessments.
Your education manager can also provide you with advice and support regarding the overall course.
Student support
The Student Support team is your one-stop service centre for all student administrative issues – including enrolment, change of contact details, OpenSpaceX support, assessment results and certification.
You can access the Student Support team by email or phone
Work Placement Support
If your course contains work placement, the work placement support team can provide you with support, advice, and resources if you encounter difficulties in securing a workplace for your work placement.
You can access the work placement support team via your trainer and assessor or the student support team.
About Open Colleges
Our history and heritage
Open Colleges has been delivering quality education for over 125 years. During this time, we have honed our unique learning model to become one of Australia’s leaders in online learning.
We’ve achieved this by continuously evolving our approach to meet the needs of our learners by offering flexible, accessible, affordable and supportive courses.
We have helped over 450,000 people in the last decade alone gain the skills to launch, change or take the next step in their careers.
All of us at Open Colleges put the student at the centre of everything we do, whether that’s helping you find the right course, designing a new course, making improvements to our online campus or giving the support you need to reach your goals.
Commitment to quality
With Open Colleges you can:
- Study nationally recognised qualifications
- Choose from a wide variety online courses
- Fit study around your family or work commitments
- Enrol 365 days of the year
- Find a payment option that works for you
- Get academic and student support – online or over the phone
- Join a community of thousands of like-minded students
Get in touch
Still got a question?
Call an Education Advisor on 1300 161 345 for more details about this course and the enrolment process.
It’s our priority to ensure you enrol in the right course so an Education Advisor will be in touch shortly to discuss your specific goals and what you want to achieve through studying online. They’ll clearly explain the course options that would suit you best and why they would work for you and talk you through how online learning with Open Colleges works.
