Learning Disability Qualification (LDQ) Induction Award

What is it?

The Learning Disability Qualification (LDQ) Induction Award covers the Common Induction Standards for those working within a learning disability context.

Who is it for?

The award is mandatory for all new staff working with people with learning disabilities.

What does it involve?

There are two Induction Awards, one at level 2 and one at level 3. There are four units at both levels:

1. Principles of learning disability support
2. Your role as a learning disability worker
3. Health and safety in a learning disability service
4. Protecting people with learning disabilities from abuse

The learning outcomes are the same at both levels but the assessment criteria are different. More knowledge and insight are expected of the level 3 individual than of the level 2, and this is related to their role within the organisation. The award consists of four assignments, one for each of the units.

Is there a certificate at the end of it?

Yes. This is an accredited qualification. It is offered by:

1. City & Guilds
2. Edexcel
3. The National Open College Network (NOCN)
4. Education Development International (EDI)

 through their approved centres. The completed award is eligible for TSI funding.

Does it link to national occupational standards?

The four units of the award cover much of the knowledge required for the mandatory units of the current NVQ Health and Social Care level 2 qualification.

Which training course should I choose?

This depends on the individual’s preferred learning style

• Attendance at a course where each workshop covers the underpinning knowledge of one unit (e.g. courses run via PACT and Making Connections; contact details are on the Training Calendars and Short Courses/Providers pages of the website)
• The purchase of supported learning materials which usually includes email advice, online assessment, registration, certification and internal verification costs (e.g. BILD, whose contact details are on the Useful Links page of the website; ARC, whose contact details are on the NVQ  Courses/Providers page of the website; Making Connections whose contact details are on the Short Courses/Providers page of the website)
• The possibility of independent learning using online resources (e.g. SCILS, whose contact details are on the Useful Links page of the website. NB Managers living in the Portsmouth and Isle of Wight areas can access these materials free of charge). Individuals who work through these materials would then have to pay for an assessment service via an approved centre.