Healthcare Support is a 1 year full-time programme offered through our VTOS Programme. The overall aim of this programme is to provide the learner knowledge, skill and competence to work in a supportive role within the Health Service. Students will learn a range of practical skills within the classroom, using equipment from a healthcare setting which will aid in preparing students to work with the service user/clients on work-placement.

This course helps students to develop their interpersonal, caring and practice skills which they can apply to a varied range of client groups in a variety of healthcare settings, whilst at the same time understanding the importance of maintaining a client’s independence, dignity, respect, self-esteem and choice.


The aim of the course is to prepare students for employment in a wide variety of care services such as Nursing Homes, Hospitals, Community Care services, Residential Settings for people with physical and intellectual disabilities, Day Care Centres and Homecare Agencies. Within these services there are many work opportunities for example Health Care Assistant, Multi-Task Assistants and Support Worker.

Work experience is an essential part of this course and Garda vetting must be completed with KWETB prior to commencing your work placement.  Each learner is responsible for securing a work placement in a relevant setting where assessment material can be worked on. 

Applications can be made through the button below. Once the application is received, applicants will receive a learner details form and a personal statement which should be completed and returned to Arklow FETC. Interview and assessment of language will be carried out once eligibility criteria has been established. A good standard or written and spoken English is required to participate in this course and complete the assessment work along with good IT skills. Elements of the course will be completed online using; Moodle and Microsoft 365; KWETB email account and relevant training will be provided on commencement of the course.

Level 5 components covered:

• Safety & Health at Work

• Care Skills

• Care Support

• Communications

• Work Experience

• Care of the Older Person

• Word Processing

• Palliative Care Support