Dementia Awareness & Care – Special Purpose Award

Dementia Awareness & Care – Special Purpose Award (QQI Level 5)

Credit Value: 15 ECTS | Level: QQI Level 5 | Duration: 11 Weeks

Our Dementia Awareness & Care programme is designed to provide learners with a strong foundation in understanding dementia and delivering high-quality, person-centred care. This comprehensive Level 5 Special Purpose Award equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical strategies required to support individuals living with dementia across a range of care settings.

Learners will develop expertise across key areas including dementia awareness, person-centred care, communication strategies, behaviour management, and supportive care environments, while also building empathy, professionalism, and practical caregiving skills.

This programme also provides enhanced competency for healthcare assistants and care professionals working in residential care, home care, and hospital environments.

Learning Modes

Blended Online

Delivered through live online webinars, recorded lectures, and structured learning materials.

• Semi self-directed learning
• Recorded lectures and live webinars every 2 weeks
• Virtual tutor interaction and support
• Moodle access provided

Fees: €450.00
Payment Options: Instalment plan available (6 monthly payments of €76.66)

Qualifications

Certificate in Dementia Awareness & Care – QQI Level 5 Special Purpose Award

Course Structure

The programme is delivered over 11 weeks through structured blended learning combining live webinars, recorded lectures, and tutor support.

Week 1: Access to Moodle platform, recorded lecture (1 hour), and tutor support via email.

Week 2: Live webinar (2–2.5 hours) – programme overview, blended learning structure, and assessment guidance.

Week 3: Tutor support (1 hour) via live session or online platform.

Week 4: Recorded lecture (1 hour) and directed reading.

Week 5: Live webinar (2–2.5 hours) – review of course content and applied discussion.

Week 6: Study week with tutor support (1 hour) for Q&A, assessment guidance, and learner support.

This cycle continues across the programme duration where applicable.

Assessments / Exams

This programme is assessed through continuous assessment.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should meet the following:

• Hold a QQI Level 5 Major Award in Healthcare Support, Nursing Studies, or Community Care
• Have a minimum of 2 years’ experience working as a Healthcare Assistant

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this programme, learners will be able to:

• Understand dementia, including types, causes, and symptoms
• Identify and respond to the needs of individuals living with dementia
• Apply person-centred care approaches in practice
• Understand relevant policies and legislation in dementia care
• Manage challenging behaviours in a supportive and safe manner
• Use assistive technologies to support quality of life for individuals with dementia

Course Structure Overview

This programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical learning approaches including case studies, group discussions, role-play, and real-life care scenarios.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must meet one of the following:

• QQI Level 5 Major Award in Healthcare Support, Nursing Studies, or Community Care
• Minimum 2 years’ experience working as a Healthcare Assistant in a relevant setting

Career & Progression Opportunities

Graduates may pursue roles in:

• Healthcare Assistant (Dementia Care Specialism)
• Nursing Home Care Worker
• Home Care Assistant
• Hospital Support Worker
• Community Dementia Support Roles

Graduates may also progress to further QQI healthcare and social care qualifications.

Why Choose This Course?

✔️ QQI Level 5 Special Purpose Award in Dementia Care
✔️ Focus on person-centred dementia support
✔️ Flexible blended online learning
✔️ Designed for experienced healthcare assistants
✔️ Practical, real-world care strategies
✔️ Short 11-week duration
✔️ Enhances professional dementia care skills

Location & Start Date

Start Date: 22nd July 2025

Learning Modes Available:
• Blended Online