The Upper Grand District School Board is now accepting applications for the Personal Support Worker (PSW) program for the 2025-2026 school year.
The program is a "Living Classroom" program in partnership with St. Joseph's Health Centre in Guelph.
A media release from the UGDSB says that the program runs for 38 weeks from September to June, offering students the opportunity to "gain essential skills and certifications necessary for a rewarding career in healthcare."
PSWs are critical to the healthcare system, as they work in private homes or healthcare facilities to help provide patient care and comfort.
Applicants are required to attend one information session in order to apply to the program. Information sessions are being held throughout April and May, 2025. To view the dates of upcoming sessions and learn more about the program, visit the PSW program website here: https://www.ugdsb.ca/o/cep/page/personal-support-worker-psw
Program Highlights:
-Location: St. Joseph's Health Centre, Guelph
-Duration: 38 weeks (September – June), with 25 hours of instruction per week.
-Curriculum: Covers areas such as anatomy, physiology, mobility, safety, hygiene, abuse, household management, care planning, cognition, mental health, managing ongoing conditions, assisting with medications, palliative care, interpersonal skills, and career education.
-Clinical Practice: Includes 330 clinical hours to provide hands-on experience.
-Certifications: Graduates will receive PSW certification, CPR and First Aid Certification, and the Gentle Persuasive Approach (GPA®) Certificate in Dementia Care.