Developmental Support Worker

Program Description

Academy Canada’s Developmental Support Worker program will prepare students to work in environments that can include government organizations, educational facilities, mental health agencies and other institutions that assist persons with physical, behavioral, cognitive, and/or psychological disabilities in order to enhance inclusion of persons with functional needs in all aspects of society. It is designed to train the student to recognize both the needs and abilities of persons they are supporting. Students will develop the skills and attitudes necessary to assist children, adolescents, and adults with disabilities to achieve their goals and demonstrate their potential as contributing members of our community.

Program Courses

• Abuse Issues
• Assessment
• Behaviour Management
• Community Integration
• Community Services
• Disability Supports
• Human Development
• Human Rights
• Human Sexuality
• Inclusion: An Educational Perspective
• Introduction to Computers
• Introduction to Psychology
• Introduction to Sociology
• Job Search Skills
• Mental Health and Addictions
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention
• Nutrition
• Personal Care
• Pharmacology
• Professional Ethics
• Seniors: The Older Adult
• Special Needs I
• Special Needs II
• Standard First Aid
• Student Success
• Work Term

Employment Opportunities

According to a discussion paper released by the Disability Policy Office, 75000 people in Newfoundland and Labrador have at least one disability. The Provincial Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to enhancing the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society.

Developmental Support Workers assist persons with a disability in overcoming barriers to carrying out everyday activities. Depending on employer hiring practices, graduates could be employed with government agencies, mental health agencies/groups, school boards and other establishments that work with persons with exceptionalities.