Developmental Services Worker

Start Dates & Ontario Colleges Program Codes:

• Fall Start (September): 0139
• Fall Start (September) - Accelerated program: 0162

CIP Code: 19.0710 (PGWP eligible)

Empowering Lives, Inspiring Futures: Your Gateway to Meaningful Impact

Do you have a passion for helping others reach their full potential? Are you driven to make a positive difference in the world? Confederation College's Developmental Services Worker program equips you with the skills and experience needed to support individuals living with disabilities, such as Autism or Down Syndrome, in living their lives to the fullest.

Our comprehensive curriculum covers crucial areas including developmental disabilities, teaching strategies, health promotion, augmentative communication and assistive technology, pharmacology, dual diagnosis, behavioral supports, counseling skills, and community development. If you believe in inclusion, individualization, and empowerment for all people in our community, this program is your stepping stone to a rewarding career.

Top Highlights

• Two field placements for real-world learning experiences
• Comprehensive knowledge and skills to support individuals in reaching their full potential
• Hands-on practice in lab settings and community event planning with schools and agencies
• Accelerated program option for those with relevant diplomas or degrees
• Focus on inclusion, individualization, and empowerment

Experiential Learning

• Interactive simulations and teaching labs
• Two field placements: one in a community-based setting with adults, another in a school-based setting
• Capstone projects integrating learned skills and knowledge

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

1. Conduct oneself in an ethical, competent and accountable manner in all professional relationships.
2. Provide person-directed supports and services that respect and promote self-determination for people with developmental disabilities.
3. Provide for the safety of people with developmental disabilities, self and others in compliance with all applicable legislation, regulations and standards of practice.
4. Support health and well-being of people with developmental disabilities.
5. Employ and adapt formal and informal strategies to support the learning of people with developmental disabilities.
6. Provide leadership in the development of inclusive communities.
7. Develop professional and personal plans that enhance job performance and well-being.

Ideal Candidate Profile

Succeed in the Developmental Services Worker program if you are:

• Compassionate: Genuinely care about helping others achieve their goals
• Patient: Able to work at the pace of those you're supporting
• Adaptable: Ready to face diverse challenges and find creative solutions
• Communicative: Skilled at interacting with people of all abilities
• Empowering: Committed to promoting self-determination and independence

Graduates support people with disabilities across the lifespan in various settings in Thunder Bay and the region, including:

• Avenue II
• Brain Injury Services of Northern Ontario
• City of Thunder Bay Recreation & Culture Division Inclusion Services
• Community Living Thunder Bay
• Dilico
• OPTIONS northwest
• Lakehead Public Schools
• Superior Greenstone Association for Community Living
• Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board

Roles include:

• Student Support Professional
• Employment Support Specialist
• Residential/Community Support Worker
• Independent Contractor
• Advocate
• Family Support Worker

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