NUI Maynooth Certificate in Disability Studies

Graduation ceremony

On the 6th February last 60 Graduates gathered, along with their friends and families, in NUI Maynooth to be presented with their Certificate in Disability Studies. Making the presentation was Dr Ted Flemming, Head of Continuing Adult Education who told the recipients to look on the day as the first step on the ladder of success. This was a very proud day for all concerned, especially for the recipients themselves who are all practicing Personal Assistants, who came from Donegal, Longford, Carlow, Dublin, Clare and Waterford to be there on the day.

The Certificate in Disability Studies was developed in association with ILCS/NUI Maynooth as a result of the Leader Forum. The most important areas highlighted for training are Disability Awareness, Independent Living Philosophy and Lifting and Handling. This programme also equips a PA with the relevant skills in order to establish a professional working relationship with the Leader. The training programme offers Personal Assistants accreditation from NUI Maynooth, while at the same time gaining practical experience.

Personal Assistants are a vital part of the ongoing service provision of the Independent Living Movement. This programme once successfully completed ensures that a service of the highest quality standard is given and it is a major step towards new career options of participants. Recognised tutors, mainly within the Independent Living Movement, deliver the course. The duration of the course is 12 weeks and generally does not exceed 5 months. Local CILs organise the venue and tutors. The course administration is organised by ILCS with local CILs looking after the details at a local level.

ILCS in partnership with NUI Maynooth are working to develop this course further based on the ever-changing needs of people with disabilities and their Personal Assistants.

ILCS would like to congratulate all those who graduated, and would like to thank all of the CILs involved, the tutors, assessors and the accrediting body NUI Maynooth.

Return to top of page

NUI Maynooth Certificate in Disability Studies

Contact Us