– High School

• Enroll in foundational courses like psychology, human development, special education, etc.
• Gain experience and find interests (specializations) through volunteerism, part-time work, or co-op placements with organizations that support individuals with Developmental Disabilities.
• Get support from your school’s guidance counselor.

Find opportunities here.

– Post-Secondary

• Research all of your options and consider applying to the schools (colleges and universities) that offer diplomas or degrees in Human Services.
• An education that specializes in Developmental Disabilities (i.e. Disability Studies, Developmental Services Worker, etc.) is an asset.
• Taking elective courses that focus on key topics like Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA), Community Building, or Social Inclusion can help better your understanding of the sector AND make you a standout candidate for recruiters.

Find college programs here

Find university programs here

– Work-To-Learn

• Taking your career to the next level through the Developmental Services Worker (DSW) Apprenticeship Program which allows you to earn an income while also earning your credentials.
• Best-suited for folks already working in the DS sector (who don’t have a diploma or degree), for students looking for continued education, and folks looking to make a career change!

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Core Competencies make up the key skillset that is demonstrated by professionals in the Developmental Services sector. They are the values and behaviours that translate to superior job performance and result in the best possible support for people with developmental disabilities.

• Advocacy
• Building Relationships
• Championing Change and Innovation
• Facilitating Growth and Development
• Inclusive Leadership
• Problem Solving & Decision Making
• Resilience
• Resource Management
• Strategic Thinking
• Valuing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)

There’s so much room for growth within the sector!

Here are some of the typical roles that make up the workforce of a DS organization:

• Direct Support
• Administrative Support
• Program Coordinator
• Case Manager
• Service Navigator
• Operational Leader
• Senior Leader

Find the job that’s right for you here.