(Kingston, Brockville, Cornwall, Feb. 25, 2021)
The new accelerated training program for personal support workers (PSWs) announced today by the provincial government will produce a huge increase in the PSW training at Ontario’s colleges.
"This is a major step to help fill the demand for personal support workers in our community,” said Glenn Vollebregt, President and CEO, St. Lawrence College. “It’s an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in a new career in this field."
The Ontario government announced funding today for an accelerated program that will cover students’ tuition and other expenses. The accelerated program starts April 5 and allows participants to graduate with full credentials within six months.
The program will begin accepting applications in early March. The added enrolment is expected to result in over 8,000 PSW graduates by this fall.
The accelerated program allows students to fulfill the program requirements more quickly by increasing the number of study hours per week.
It will use a hybrid model that combines online learning with in-person practical experience. Students in the program will complete courses online and participate in laboratory classes available at the colleges and in care settings.
Students in the accelerated program will be available to volunteer at long-term care homes and other settings early in the program and available for paid work placements after three months.
Graduates will enter the workforce at the end of six months. The standard PSW programs at colleges take eight months to complete.
St. Lawrence College offers the PSW program on each of its three campuses in Kingston, Brockville, and Cornwall. "Our graduates provide essential care to many of our most vulnerable citizens," Vollebregt said. "We were pleased to collaborate with the province to create this new opportunity for students."
For information on how to apply to the accelerated PSW program, email ask@sl.on.ca
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