Changing career and advancing my professionalism in housing

After a downturn in my housepainter career in 2006, I joined Good Shepherd Kilkenny, an organisation providing emergency accommodation for homeless men. This transition offered a new direction for my professional life.

In the same year, I embarked on a new academic journey by enrolling as an undergraduate student at St. Patrick's College, Carlow, where I pursued a degree in Applied Social Studies in Social Care. My dedication to my studies and commitment to the sector facilitated my career advancement.

Today, Good Shepherd Kilkenny operates with its sister company Tar Isteach, offering a wide range of support services including housing.

After seeing the benefits of my earlier studies, I made the decision to take the Irish Council for Social Housing’s Level 6 (Level 4 in UK) Certificate in Housing provided by CIH. The course was both profoundly beneficial and exceptionally well-structured. I found the course to be comprehensive, insightful and instrumental in advancing my knowledge and skills in the field of housing management.

The course content was meticulously designed to encompass all critical aspects of housing management. From understanding the foundational principles of housing services to exploring key management functions and evaluating approaches to housing-related support and advice, the curriculum left no aspect uncovered. Each unit was clearly defined and aligned with specific learning outcomes and assessment criteria, ensuring that learners could track their progress and understand the expectations at every stage.

The course was delivered in a manner that effectively balanced theoretical knowledge with practical application. The assignments, such as creating an information guide for new staff, required learners to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. This approach not only reinforced learning but also equipped participants with practical skills they could use in their professional roles.

The support provided by the tutors and the availability of resources through Moodle were outstanding. The course materials were comprehensive and well-organised, and the additional guidance on study skills and learner support was incredibly helpful. The emphasis on referencing and critical thinking skills further enhanced the learning experience, ensuring that participants produced high-quality, well-informed work.

In conclusion, the course was an excellent programme that offered invaluable knowledge and practical skills; it has greatly enhanced my understanding and capability in this field and has advanced my professionalism in the housing sector.