Students completing the Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care at South Eastern Regional College (SERC) have enhanced their professional skills by completing Community Sighted Guide Training, delivered by the Blind Association at the college’s Newtownards Campus.
Over the course of three hours, the students gained valuable insight and practical knowledge. The programme, led by trainer Paula McLarnon from the Blind Association, included, sight loss in the UK; eye conditions; potential impacts and challenges; access rights and practical sighted guiding activities.
Nikki Rainey, Curriculum Manager, Health and Care, School of Business, Health and Hospitality said, “We are planning to roll out the training to other Health and Social Care and Counselling students. It will significantly benefit students as they progress into careers such as nursing, counselling, social work, and paramedics - particularly when working with individuals who are visually impaired.”
Susan Annett and Hannah McMeekin, Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeship Tutors, emphasised the importance of the training for future leaders in the health and social care sector. They said, “This training was vital for our future managers as they can lead their teams in this practice safely. The theory gave the students understanding of the impact of sight loss. The practical activity ensured the students understand what it is like for someone who is visually impaired and how important communication is when guiding.”
Come along to our Full-time Open Evening, 4pm - 7pm on Thursday 5 March, at Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards Campuses.
