The healthcare industry continues to expand in response to the growing demand for trained and compassionate care professionals. One area of critical importance is maternity care, where skilled support workers play an essential role in supporting mothers and newborns throughout the pregnancy journey. The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Maternity Care Assistant is an ideal qualification for individuals looking to make a meaningful difference in this rewarding field.
The OSHAA (Occupational Safety, Health and Analytical Accreditation) 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Maternity Care Assistant is a practical, accessible training program designed to prepare learners for supportive roles in maternity care settings. Over the course of 30 guided learning hours, participants gain essential knowledge and hands-on skills needed to assist midwives, nurses, and healthcare teams in delivering safe and effective maternity care.
Completion of the OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma opens up a variety of employment opportunities within the healthcare sector, particularly in hospitals, clinics, maternity units, community health centers, and home-based care. It also serves as a stepping stone to further qualifications in midwifery, nursing, or social care.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Maternity Care Assistant is more than a certification — it is a gateway into one of the most fulfilling sectors in healthcare. With a focus on practical skills, safety awareness, and patient-centered care, this diploma equips learners to become valued members of maternity care teams and to support mothers and infants with confidence and compassion.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Maternity Care Assistant
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Maternity Care and the Role of the Assistant (3 hours)
- Understand the scope of maternity care and the stages of the maternity pathway
- Identify the responsibilities and limitations of a maternity care assistant
- Recognise the importance of teamwork within maternity healthcare settings
- Demonstrate awareness of professional conduct and ethical care delivery
Understanding Pregnancy Stages and Maternal Health (5 hours)
- Describe the physiological and emotional changes during each trimester
- Understand common health conditions and risks associated with pregnancy
- Recognise the importance of nutrition, exercise, and antenatal check-ups
- Support pregnant individuals with comfort, reassurance, and practical care
Antenatal Support and Care Practices (3 hours)
- Assist in routine antenatal procedures and observations under supervision
- Support emotional wellbeing and prepare mothers for childbirth
- Provide clear, supportive communication to expectant mothers
- Understand cultural sensitivity and respect in antenatal care
Labour and Birth Support Essentials (5 hours)
- Recognise signs of labour and assist in preparing the birthing environment
- Support mothers through non-clinical comfort measures during labour
- Assist midwives with safe handling and positioning of patients
- Understand the emotional and psychological needs during labour and delivery
Postnatal Care and Emotional Wellbeing (3 hours)
- Assist in monitoring postnatal recovery and maternal comfort
- Recognise signs of postnatal depression and emotional distress
- Support mothers with basic hygiene, mobility, and rest
- Encourage confidence and reassurance in early motherhood
Newborn Care, Feeding, and Bonding Techniques (4 hours)
- Assist with newborn hygiene, nappy changing, and swaddling
- Support safe feeding practices including breastfeeding and bottle feeding
- Understand the importance of skin-to-skin contact and parent-infant bonding
- Identify signs of newborn distress and report concerns appropriately
Monitoring Vital Signs and Recognising Health Concerns (4 hours)
- Accurately observe and record temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure
- Recognise abnormal findings and report to appropriate clinical staff
- Understand how to respond to signs of maternal or neonatal deterioration
- Maintain clear and accurate care records
Infection Control and Hygiene in Maternity Settings (3 hours)
- Follow best practices for hand hygiene, PPE use, and environmental cleanliness
- Understand routes of infection transmission in maternity care
- Support the safe handling and disposal of clinical waste
- Maintain high hygiene standards when assisting with mother and baby care
Here are the key course benefits of the OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Maternity Care Assistant:
- Develops essential knowledge and practical skills for supporting mothers and newborns
- Prepares learners for real-world maternity care environments through focused, hands-on training
- Enhances understanding of pregnancy stages, birth support, and postnatal care
- Builds confidence in assisting with newborn care, feeding, hygiene, and bonding
- Equips participants with the ability to monitor vital signs and recognise potential health concerns
- Ensures safe and hygienic practices through comprehensive infection control training
- Improves communication, empathy, and professionalism in maternal support roles
- Provides a recognised qualification that supports entry into healthcare and maternity care settings
- Offers a foundation for further study in nursing, midwifery, or social care
- Increases employability in hospitals, clinics, community care, and home support services
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Maternity Care Assistant is ideal for individuals who are passionate about supporting maternal and newborn health. This course is designed for:
- Aspiring maternity care assistants seeking entry into the healthcare sector
- School leavers or college students interested in midwifery, nursing, or paediatric care
- Existing healthcare support workers aiming to specialise in maternity services
- Individuals considering a career change into a caring or clinical role
- Volunteers and part-time carers working in maternity or family support environments
- Parents or guardians wishing to gain formal knowledge in maternal and infant care
- Anyone looking to build a solid foundation for further study in health and social care
Whether starting your career or enhancing your current role, this course provides the practical skills and knowledge needed to make a real difference in maternity care.
