Claire Yorke

Returning to education with a young family was a daunting decision, I was fully supported at all times and encouraged by Monaghan Institute tutors to further my education even more. I am now halfway through Level 6 Advanced Social Studies with the plan to continue with the fantastic opportunity of completing a Level 7 Degree in Health and Social Care in Monaghan Institute. I have gained huge knowledge and understanding of the sector, along with interpersonal skills that has allowed me to enter my work experience settings with confidence and assurance that I have made the right decision in returning to education.

Monaghan Institute has offered numerous certified courses outside of the curriculum that, along with my accreditation, has allowed me to develop a whole new CV with many employment opportunities. I highly recommend Social Studies to anyone that would like to gain a good understanding of the sector in a supported and enjoyable environment.

Course Studied: Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Applied Social Studies

Lisa Wilkin

I studied the Level 5 Applied Social Studies & Psychology Course at Monaghan Institute. On completion of this, I progressed to study the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Applied Social Studies. As a direct result of completing both courses at MI, I am currently working as a relief support worker in a day care centre with adults with disabilities in Cavan. I feel confident in my role as I have gained the knowledge and work experience needed to work in this field. In September 2021, I hope to return to Monaghan Institute to complete the degree in Health and Social Care through LYIT outreach delivery in MI.

Course Studied: Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Applied Social Studies

Francis Matthews

Having been made redundant from a lengthy career in manufacturing in early 2015, I had an opportunity to reassess my career options. The thought of re-entering the education system at my age, made me hesitant, but with the support and encouragement of my family, I agreed to attend the Monaghan Institute Open Day in 2015.

Being heavily involved with the local youth in my area as a community volunteer and enjoying interaction with other people, I was looking for a career that I could combine my passion for both. Unsure of what direction to take, I browsed the MI prospectus and decided to seek some more information on courses in the Health and Social Care section.

At the Open Day I was immediately put at ease by the friendly and helpful MI Staff, with regards to my apprehension as a Mature Student. I was also given appropriate advice in relation to the choice of course that should pursue. I applied that day for the QQI Health Service Skills Level 5 Course and thankfully was accepted.

From the moment I entered the MI’s fantastic new building, I found all the course tutors and other members of staff always supportive and willing to go out of their way to help. The facilities were second to none which only encouraged me to try to achieve the highest standards I could during my course.

During this time, I was required to seek a work placement within a relevant setting. I secured my work experience in two Primary Schools in the Cavan and Monaghan area, both schools with Special Needs Units. This proved to be a tremendously enlightening experience for me. I became aware of the skills and qualities that were required to assist the children. It also made me realise that a career as a Special Needs Assistant was the route I wished to pursue.

I successfully completed the Level 5 in Health Service Skills in May 2016 and in September 2016, I decided to further my studies. This time opting to return to MI for the QQI Advanced Certificate in Applied Social Studies Level 6 course. The modules delivered in the Level 6 programme, especially Rehabilitation Practice, Disability Awareness and Person-Centred Planning consolidated my knowledge and skills. Team Working further enhanced my communication skills, self-awareness and ability to critically reflect. Work Experience is also a component of this course and I was able to secure my work placement in a school for children with special needs. This enabled me to gain more experience in this field, thereby enhancing my career prospects.

I successfully completed my course in May 2017. I achieved my goal and secured employment as a SNA in a local Secondary School. I can’t thank all of the staff of Monaghan Institute enough for their support and guidance as I progressed through an uncertain crossroad in my life.

Course Studied: Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Applied Social Studies

Social Studies – Did you know?

Social care workers plan and provide professional, individual or group care to clients with personal and social needs. Client groups are varied and include children and adolescents in residential care; young people in detention schools; people with intellectual or physical disabilities; people who are homeless; people with alcohol/drug dependency; families in the community; or older people. Social care workers strive to support, protect, guide and advocate on behalf of clients.

Social care work is based on interpersonal relationships which require empathy, strong communication skills, self-awareness and an ability to use critical reflection. Teamwork and interdisciplinary work are also important in social care practice. The core principles underpinning social care work are similar to those of other helping professions, and they include respect for the dignity of clients; social justice; and empowerment of clients to achieve their full potential. Through their training, social care workers are equipped to optimise the personal and social development of those with whom they work.