25 June 2009
40 staff from the Health and Social Services Department are attending an award ceremony after achieving a nationally recognized qualification in child care.
Child care workers from Heathfield, Greenfields, La Preference, Brig y Don, Grand Vaux Family centre and La Chasse have all gained a NVQ Health and Social Care – Children and Young People (Level 3). NVQs are work-related and competence-based assessments which reflect the skills and knowledge needed to do a job effectively.
Staff studied for the qualification, which is the equivalent of an A level, in three months. The course was carried out by Universal Learning Streams Jersey Limited, who trained and assessed the students in a number of ways including on-the-job observation.
Children's Executive Co-ordinator, Phil Dennett, said: "I am delighted that a large number of our staff have completed the programme and this will undoubtedly have a positive effect on the delivery of care to young people.
“The Children's Executive is committed to providing the best quality of care to young people in residential and secure care. Part of that commitment relies on the development of staff through comprehensive training programs. We will continue to offer further NVQ training to care staff, alongside continuing professional development for qualified social workers.”
Staff will be presented with their certificates by the Health Minister, Deputy Anne Pryke, during an award ceremony at the Gervais Le Gros Centre on Friday 26 June at 1.30pm. The Assistant Health Minister, Deputy Judy Martin and Deputy Chief Executive of Health, Richard Jouault, will also attend.
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