As a Developmental Services Professional, students are embarking on a rewarding career supporting children and adults experiencing life with physical disabilities, developmental and intellectual disabilities, and dual diagnosis. Students will learn how to effectively use a person centered approach and positive behaviour supports to support behavioural, emotional, mental, physical, and social needs. Students will also learn about the stages of human development, spectrum of disabilities, modes of communication, basic nursing skills, medication administration competencies, and the range of community supports.

In addition, students will learn the value of working within legislative frameworks as it relates to positive behaviour supports, person centered supports, educational supports, crisis management, and the constructing of a safe, respectful, and quality life. Students will develop advocacy skills through relationship building and the critical thinking skills required to support individuals who live life with physical disabilities, developmental and intellectual disabilities, and dual diagnosis.

Learning will be complemented by extensive hands-on experience gained through Field Placement opportunities, beginning with a Field Placement block in semester two and continuing with placements in semesters three and four.

The Developmental Services Worker Program allows students the flexibility and choice to attend scheduled in-person classes, virtual classes in real time, and/or watch video lecture captures at a time that is convenient for them. Students can move seamlessly between the delivery methods; attend scheduled in-person classes, virtual classes in real time, and/or watch video lecture captures. All course evaluations, tests, assignments, projects, etc. can be completed on Cambrian's Learning Management System, Moodle.

Students will acquire the following skills from this program:

Communication skills using alternate modes of communication: sign language, braille, and a picture exchange communication system
Professional competencies and the development of core and threshold competencies
Development of formal and informal person and student centered plans
Development of positive behaviour supports and instructional strategies
Understanding and supporting individuals across the diverse spectrum of disabilities
Advocacy for independence, self-determination, inclusion, belonging, and citizenship
Development of competencies to work collaboratively with inter-professional teams, families, and community professionals
Knowledge of medications, medication administration, and basic nursing skills
Facilitation of employment opportunities and entrepreneurship
Program Highlights
2 years - 4 semesters
Offers a Fall and Winter term start date
Flexible schedule, students can move seamlessly between delivery methods; attend scheduled in-person classes, virtual classes in real time, and/or watch video lecture captures at a time convenient for them.
Field placement opportunities in semesters two, three, and four coordinated by the Placement Coordinator in collaboration with the student, in or near their home community
Opportunities for summer and/or part-time employment with agencies in the Developmental Services Sector
Faculty with diverse experience and expertise across the curriculum
Community guest speakers with diverse experience and expertise in their profession
Opportunities to obtain industry certifications
Opportunities for Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) for students who have related work experience or a related diploma/degree
Advanced Standing for students who have related work experience or a related diploma/degree
Program is mapped to Cambrian's Early Childhood Education, Child and Youth Care and Social Service Worker Programs to provide student two diplomas in three years
Fieldwork/Placement
Students who meet the requirements, will have the opportunity to complete three Placements.

Required documentation for Placement includes:

Criminal Records Check - Vulnerable Sector Screening
Health documentation (up-to-date immunization, Two-Step TB test, freedom for communicable diseases)
Standard First Aid and CPR - Level C
Crisis Management Training for the fourth semester placement
Industry certifications
Co-op permits for placement in semesters two, three, and four for international students
Please Note:

Students will be responsible for any expenses incurred related to placement, such as consultations with Paramed, co-op permits for non-permanent residents, medical fees for service, transportation, meals, and accommodations.
Agencies and schools may require students to have additional medical and non-medical documentation prior to accepting placements.
Students will be responsible for the provision of required documentation for placement in consultation with Paramed.
Recommendation:

Valid G license is recommended for employment in the Developmental Services Sector.

Graduates of the Developmental Services Worker Program make a difference in the lives of individuals living life with physical disabilities, developmental and intellectual disabilities, dual diagnosis, and their families. As a skilled and caring Developmental Services Professional, you can support individuals to live, work, play, and participate in their communities as valued citizens. As a graduate of the Developmental Services Worker Program, you can also make a difference in a variety of classrooms. You will acquire the knowledge and skills to work effectively as a support staff in elementary and secondary school classrooms, to assist teachers and other classroom staff in implementing academic studies and education plans. Your understanding of a diverse spectrum of disabilities, professional competencies, communication skills, person and student centered planning, positive behaviour supports, instructional strategies, and your passion to support others will empower you to build a rewarding career.

Graduates of the Developmental Services Worker Program support children and adults living life with disabilities. This can lead to a range of positions, including:

Developmental Services Professional / Direct Support Professional
Educational Assistants
Supported Employment Professional
Independent Contracting Professional
Respite Professional
Community Participation / Day Support Professional