The Joseph Rowntree Foundation Certificate in Care has been
developed to bridge the gap between health and social care
training. It recognises the diversity and complexity of needs that
people requiring care in a home, residential or nursing setting
have.
Its aim is to equip carers with the skills and knowledge base
necessary to enable the people in their care to fulfil their
potential for an independent, dignified quality of life.
Aimed at all those choosing a career in the care sector, the JRF
Certificate in Care is a professional qualification obtained over
eight months using the open learning format-a highly structured
autonomous learning method, which allows students to work at their
own pace. Successful completion results in a university foundation
certificate.
Learning outcomes
The JRF Certificate in Care has been developed by the Joseph
Rowntree Foundation as the professional qualification for
carers. Having attained it, students will have demonstrated
knowledge and practical skills in:
- the physical sciences
- social behavioural sciences
- problem solving
- study skills
- team working skills
- activities related to specific care
interventions
The University of Sunderland awards a certificate in higher
education and attracts 120 Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme
(CATS) points at level 1, equivalent to the first year of a degree
course. For those students who wish to convert the JRF certificate
into an NVQ Level 4 in Care, a comprehensive set of guidelines is
available.
The principles and structure of the
course
The JRF Certificate in Care is based on two
principles
- acquisition of critical enabling
knowledge
- application of this knowledge to
practice
The JRF Certificate in Care is divided into six modules
- Introduction to study skills
- explores learning techniques, which is
especially useful for those not previously engaged in formal
learning.
- Social aspects of caring in a mixed economy of
care - looks at care from a
historical context, enabling students to understand the present
climate.
- The psychological aspects of care in a mixed
economy - studies organisational
dynamics and how the various organisations involved in care relate
to one another. This includes an exploration of the evolution of
care and care services.
- Lifespan development -
explores age and ageism, health issues, lifestyles and how
behaviour and care needs are individual to the client.
- Caring at home - planning
for care for people living in either a residential or nursing home
setting or in the community.
- Caring for particular clients in particular
settings - carers may choose
from a number of modules specifically aimed at caring for different
client groups in different settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible?
The course is open to anyone working in health and social care.
Lack of previous qualifications does not mean students cannot gain
access to the course. Guaranteed entry is available to those who
have attained NVQ Level 3 or GNVQ Advanced.
Entry by interview is available to those who have sufficient
practical experience or knowledge.
Who will it be of interest to?
The JRF Certificate in Care will be of interest to employers and
employees in the public, voluntary and private sectors, because it
will facilitate and complement existing skills, creating an
appropriate skill mix for those working in the care sector.
Where is the course available?
The University of Sunderland runs courses throughout the country
and offers students opportunities to study at their own pace and in
their own times.
Employers and other organisations with large numbers of students
may also offer the JRF Certificate in Care from their own training
institutions, provided they meet specified standards for course
delivery.
How long does it take?
The course is delivered over a 34-week period by supported open
learning, accompanied by tutorials, group support and a mentoring
scheme. The tutorials and group sessions can be arranged on a day
release, evening class or individual basis.
Further information and applications
For further information contact:
Training Department
JRF Certificate in Care,
Hartrigg Oaks,
Haxby Road,
New Earswick,
York, YO32 4DS
Tel: 01904 752212
Email:
information@jrht.org.uk
Applications can also be sent to this address. This does not
commit the applicant in any way to the course but does ensure that
they are kept informed of courses starting in their area.
To download an application form
click here