When you’re considering enrolling in a course, especially something as impactful as a Certificate III in Community Services, you want to know what the experience will be like. At Industry Skills Training (IST), we understand that getting a feel for the course and the learning environment is crucial to making your decision. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect when you study this course with us at our face-to-face campuses.
Diverse Student Body
One of the unique aspects of studying a Certificate III in Community Services at IST is the diversity of our student body. You’ll find yourself learning alongside people from all walks of life—students range from 15 years old to those nearing retirement age. The mix of ages, genders, and backgrounds brings a rich variety of perspectives to the classroom.
Our students come from a wide array of experiences:
Some have lived through challenging circumstances and are motivated to help others in similar situations.
Others are looking for a social, engaging environment and enjoy attending the course for the camaraderie.
Many are transitioning from careers in trades, retail, hospitality, accounting, FIFO work, project management, and even senior executive roles, all bringing transferable skills that are valuable in the community services sector.
This diversity fosters a friendly, supportive, and inclusive atmosphere, where everyone’s voice is valued and learning is enhanced by the different perspectives shared in the classroom.
Still unsure if community services is the right path for you? Check out our article on Choosing Between Community Services, Allied Health & Individual Support: Pros and Cons to explore your options.
Classroom Size and Environment
At IST, we maintain manageable class sizes, typically around 20 to 30 students, depending on intake dates. This allows our trainers to provide personalised support to each student, ensuring that everyone is treated as an individual, not just a number.
The atmosphere in the classroom is upbeat and inclusive, with plenty of opportunities for socialisation and interaction. You’ll often be working with different classmates on team assessments, which not only helps in learning the material but also builds strong connections and friendships that can last long after the course is completed.
Supportive and Qualified Trainers
Our trainers at IST are not only industry-qualified but also deeply committed to providing a positive and constructive learning experience. For example, one of our trainers comes from a youth work background, having managed youth centres, worked in outreach, and engaged in community development with local government.
Our trainers bring their extensive industry knowledge into the classroom, preparing you for meaningful employment in the community services sector. They are dedicated to helping you succeed, offering guidance and support throughout your learning journey.
Learning Materials and Teaching Methods
When it comes to learning materials, IST ensures that you have access to the highest industry standards. Our resources include PDFs, videos, presentations, and documents, all available through our Learning Management System (LMS). This means you can review the material at your own pace, outside of class time.
Our teaching methods are designed to keep you engaged and make learning enjoyable. Classes involve direct teaching as well as team learning activities, with plenty of student participation and interaction. This approach not only helps you grasp the material but also makes the learning experience more dynamic and enjoyable.
Assessments and Progression
The assessments in the Certificate III in Community Services course at IST are designed to be achievable for all students. Most students find that they can successfully complete the assessments with the knowledge and support provided in class.
Want to hear directly from students about their experiences? Take a look at our article on Certificate III in Community Services: Honest Student Reviews and Experiences to get their perspectives.
Completing this qualification opens the door to numerous career opportunities in the community services sector. Whether you start as a frontline worker or aim for higher-paying positions in management, supervision, or case work, the possibilities are vast. Not only will you be helping others, but you’ll also build lifelong friendships and connections within the industry.
Curious about the demand for community services jobs in Perth? Read our article on Is There a Demand for Community Services Jobs in Perth? to learn more about the job market.
Final Thoughts
Studying a Certificate III in Community Services at IST offers a rich and supportive learning environment, filled with diverse perspectives, qualified trainers, and high-quality resources. The experience is designed to be engaging, inclusive, and ultimately rewarding, both personally and professionally. If you’re ready to make a difference in your community and start a fulfilling career, IST is here to help you every step of the way.
If you’re still exploring whether you need certification, our article on Do I Need a Certification to Work in Community Services? can help guide your decision.
Take the next step towards a meaningful career in community services with IST today.
