Level 3 Award in Supporting Individuals with Learning Disabilities (NCFE)

You will need to be aged 19 or older, working or volunteering in a suitable placement ideally with GCSE English and Math’s at grade C/4 or Level 2 equivalent. Enhanced DBS clearance is required.

You will be taught through a combination of:
• Face to face sessions
• Guided learning activities
• Discussion, reflection and real life workplace examples
There are no exams. Assessment is through an internally assessed portfolio of evidence and placement competencies. You will demonstrate your learning through written tasks, reflective accounts and evidence drawn from practice.

Ideally, students will have GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4 or Level 2 equivalent. If students don’t yet have these qualifications, there is an expectation that students will be willing to work towards these. It is important to gain these qualifications to strengthen opportunities for future employment and/or study.

Students are expected to be working, volunteering or on a practical placement in a relevant setting where they can support individuals with learning disabilities to be able to meet the assessment requirements of this qualification.

Students need to gain a minimum of 100 hours placement (if not already working/volunteering in an appropriate sector) over the duration of the course. This enables you to gather evidence and apply learning directly to real life practice. It is an expectation that if students require a placement setting that you liaise independently with settings to secure them.

This course aligns closely with the expectations of employers across:
• Health and social care
• Education and SEND services
• Community and voluntary organisations
The programme reflects current legislation, policy and professional standards, ensuring learning is relevant, up to date and valued across the care and education sectors.

The course aims to:
• Develop your knowledge, skills and confidence in supporting individuals with learning disabilities and SEND
• Strengthen understanding of rights, inclusion, advocacy and person centred practice
• Enable you to apply theory effectively within real work or placement settings
• Support your professional development and career progression

The units that you will study are current and relevant to the sector. The topics and themes you will explore include:
Understanding learning disabilities, SEND and inclusive practice across sectors

- Effective communication when supporting individuals with learning disabilities and SEND

- Person centred thinking, planning and support for individuals with learning disabilities and SEND

- Promoting health, wellbeing, independence and active participation for people with learning disabilities and SEND

- Advocacy, empowerment and safeguarding in learning disability and SEND practice