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REGISTRATION PERIOD     APPLICATIONS CLOSED

COURSE DATE 20 Apr 2026 to 18 Apr 2027 COURSE DURATION / FREQUENCY 3 hours/session (2 days/week)
MODE OF LEARNING Facilitated Learning (Face-to-Face/ Online Synchronous) and Asynchronous E-Learning COURSE VENUE Temasek Polytechnic

Course Overview

The Specialist Diploma in Adult Disability Practice is designed to support workforce development in the adult disability sector, a specialised area within Singapore’s broader social service landscape. The course caters to professionals working in Adult Disability Homes (ADHs), Day Activity Centres (DACs), Sheltered Workshops, and Training and Development Centres, with a specific focus on adults with intellectual, developmental, sensory, or physical disabilities in post-18 community and employment settings. It also aligns with the needs of related industries such as vocational training, supported employment services, and community integration programmes for persons with disabilities.

 

Do note that work-based learning (WBL) sessions will be conducted with a Social Service Agency (TBC) at their premise.


 

All students are required to bring their own notebooks for lessons. You may refer to the required technical specifications for notebooks HERE.

What You'll Learn

Upon completing the course, graduates should be able to:

 

a. Apply person-centred planning principles to develop individualised support plans that reflect the evolving needs, preferences, and goals of adults with disabilities across the lifespan.
b. Facilitate inclusive community living by addressing participation barriers and co-creating sustainable support systems in collaboration with caregivers, Social Service Agencies (SSAs), and community partners.
c. Communicate effectively with adults with disabilities and their caregivers using inclusive, adaptive strategies that foster trust, motivation, and well-being in both daily support and vocational settings.
d. Conduct vocational profiling and job matching, and support individuals in navigating Continuing Education and Training (CET) pathways, pre-employment programmes, and workplace learning tailored to their strengths and aspirations.
e. Facilitate vocational engagement and workplace inclusion through strategies such as structured teaching and sensory-informed learning.
f. Navigate Singapore’s adult disability policy landscape, advocate for inclusive practices, and contribute to a resilient and skilled workforce through collaboration and applied practice, including work-based attachments.



To be awarded the Specialist Diploma in Adult Disability Practice participants are required to complete a total of 2 post-modular certificates (PDCs). A certificate will be issued upon successful completion of each PDC.

Subject Code Subject
icon-arrow-orange GPS2310 Person-Centred Practices & Community Living for Adults with Disabilities

This module introduces foundational principles and strategies to support adults with disabilities in leading self-directed, dignified lives within their communities. Participants will learn to apply person-centred planning (PCP) across key life transitions, build inclusive living arrangements, and collaborate with caregivers, families, and social service partners. Topics include ethical practices and boundaries when supporting adults with disabilities, understanding the evolving role of caregivers in planning and advocacy, and promoting healthy and safe interpersonal relationships. Learners will also explore key national policies and initiatives (e.g. Enabling Masterplan, Workfare Skills Support, and Enabling Employment Credit) that shape Singapore’s adult disability service landscape and inform inclusive practice. Real-world case studies and service navigation exercises will enable learners to apply these insights to foster autonomy, dignity, and sustainable participation in community life.

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icon-arrow-orange GPS3307 Effective Communication & Emotional Support Strategies

This module equips participants with inclusive communication strategies to effectively engage adults with disabilities and their caregivers. It covers techniques for building trust, supporting resilience, and motivating clients using principles from positive psychology and trauma-informed care. Participants will learn to adapt communication to diverse needs, recognise signs of distress, and manage sensitive topics such as safe relationships. The module also explores caregiver engagement, focusing on collaboration, boundary-setting, and navigating differing expectations. Through applied learning, participants will develop the interpersonal and ethical competencies essential for fostering meaningful relationships and supporting the holistic well-being of adults with disabilities.

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Subject Code Subject
icon-arrow-orange GPS2311 Vocational Inclusion & Employment Empowerment for Adults with Disabilities

This module equips participants with the skills to support adults with disabilities in achieving meaningful employment and vocational growth. It covers vocational profiling, job matching, workplace readiness, and customised employment strategies such as job carving and natural supports. Participants will also gain critical knowledge of Singapore’s employment support ecosystem, including policies like the Enabling Masterplan, CET access, and government-funded schemes. Through applied learning and advocacy frameworks, learners will explore how to collaborate with caregivers, employers, and training providers to build inclusive, sustainable employment pathways that promote autonomy, resilience, and long-term career development.

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icon-arrow-orange GPS3308 Engaging Adult Learners with Disabilities in Vocational Contexts

This module introduces participants to inclusive and adaptive teaching approaches that support adults with disabilities in acquiring vocational skills for employment. Participants will learn to apply structured teaching, sensory-based strategies, and self-regulation supports to enhance learning engagement and retention. Emphasis will be placed on designing learner-centred, strengths-based approaches that align with individual needs, communication styles, and workplace contexts. Through practicum-based activities and applied case studies, learners will practise tailoring workplace.

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Modes of Assessment

 

The assessment would be based on a combination of coursework components such as written and oral assignments, case studies, individual and group projects.


For more information on course fee / schedule, or to apply,

Career Opportunities

The Specialist Diploma is designed to cater to both new entrants (e.g., career switchers) and upskillers. This dual-targeted approach strengthens the practitioner pipeline by supporting both new entry pathways and career advancement for current staff.


a. For new entrants, those with prior experience in other sectors may be able to join at a junior management or mid-level officer role instead of starting at an entry-level position, depending on their previous experience and the needs of different organisations.
b. For upskillers already working in the sector, the course equips them with advanced skills and practicum-based experience to support progression to senior roles such as Senior DSO, Senior Coach, or Programme Manager.

Entry Requirements

 

A Polytechnic Diploma or ITE Technical Diploma / Technical Engineer Diploma / Work-Learn Technical Diploma / Work-Study diploma or equivalent
OR
A Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent
OR

A Post-Secondary Certificate

AND with at least 3 Years of relevant working experience

Applicants who do not meet the above minimum entry requirements will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Suitable For

a. Professionals working in post-18 disability services (e.g., Day Activity Centres, Adult Disability Homes, Sheltered Workshops, Training and Development Centres)
b. Employment support officers, job coaches, and programme staff from SSAs and inclusive employers
c. Mid-career switchers interested in transitioning into the adult disability or community care sectors
d. Vocational trainers and facilitators supporting learners with disabilities
e. Caregivers and volunteers involved in adult disability or employment-related initiatives

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Course Contact

  • Mainline 67881212
  • Monday - Thursday: 8:30am - 6:00pm
    Friday: 8:30am - 5:30pm
     
    Closed during lunchtime, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
    and on weekends and public holidays.

  • https://www.tp.edu.sg/tsa
  • Temasek SkillsFuture Academy (TSA)
    Temasek Polytechnic
    East Wing, Block 1A, Level 3, Unit 109
    21 Tampines Ave 1
    Singapore 529757

  • Temasek Polytechnic reserves the right to alter the course, modify the scale of fee, amend any other information or cancel course with low enrolment.

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