27-Week full time Certificate Program 
The PSW program is accredited by the Ontario Association of Adult and Continuing Education School Board Administrators (CESBA).
The start date for the next PSW Program is September 4, 2025 (Quad 1).
A Google Meet information session will be held on May 26, 2025 at 11 a.m.
The online Sign Up to apply for the September class is May 28, 2025 at 11 a.m. sharp.
After signing up you can upload your educational and work/volunteering documents.
Previous PSW students who had not completed the program at CALC and wish to return please fill out an application.
- Program Structure:
- The program is divided into 3 parts.
- Each part consists of 9 weeks of full-time study, encompassing both in-school learning and practical placement.
- Upon successful completion, participants earn a Personal Support Worker certificate.
- Eligibility:
- Applicants must be 19 years of age or older and an Ontario resident.
- Applicants' legal status must be one of the following:
- Canadian Citizen
- Permanent Resident
- Refugee
- Holder of a valid Student Visa
- Application Steps:
- Online Sign-Up: The initial step involves registering interest or beginning the application process through an online portal.
- English Language Assessment: Applicants are required to attend an in-person English language assessment. This evaluation is crucial to ensure candidates possess the necessary communication skills for the PSW role.
- Interview: Following a successful English assessment, applicants will be invited to attend a personal interview. This interview allows the department committee to evaluate the applicant's suitability, interpersonal skills, and understanding of the PSW profession.
- Program Features:
- Tuition-Free: The program is offered without any tuition fees, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals.
- Materials Provided: All necessary learning materials are included, eliminating additional costs for students.
- Certificate Program: Upon completion, graduates receive a recognized Personal Support Worker certificate.
- Program emphasis:
- The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experience in real-world settings.
- The placement portion of the program is designed to give the students real world experience.
Personal Support Worker Program Description
Our comprehensive Personal Support Worker (PSW) program prepares you for a rewarding career in providing essential care and support to individuals in need. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience to equip you with the skills and confidence to excel as a PSW.
The theory component covers a range of topics, including:
- Roles and responsibilities of a PSW
- Client-centered care and communication
- Assisting with personal care, mobility, and medication
- Understanding various health conditions and special needs
- Safety protocols and ethical considerations
The practicum component provides real-world experience in diverse healthcare settings, such as long-term care facilities and community settings. Under the supervision of experienced professionals, you'll apply your knowledge, develop your clinical skills, and gain confidence in providing compassionate care.
Upon completion of this program, you'll be prepared to provide holistic, client-centered care, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Attendance
Students must be able to attend Part 1 and Part 2 classes every day (Monday to Friday) from 8:25 am to 3:15 pm. For Part 3 (Placement) students must be at work from 6:45 am to 3:00 pm.
Course Codes and Durations
Part 1 in school theory (9 weeks) TPJ3C1, TPJ2O1
Part 2 in school theory (9 weeks) TOJ4C1, TPJ4E1
Part 3 in placement (9 weeks) TOJ4CC, TPJ4ES
Part 1 Classes begin 4 times a year either in September Quad 1, November Quad 2, February Quad 3 or April Quad 4. The program is delivered over 3 quads or 27 weeks. Concurrently Parts 2 and 3 are running at those times. CALC is closed for summer break during the months of July or August.
For quad start dates please see CALC's home page.
Personal Support Workers are employed in:
- Private Homes
- Nursing Homes
- Seniors residences
- Hospices and hospitals
- Community centers
- Public schools
- Group homes
- Adult day care settings
The PSW Program prepares students to enter the healthcare field.
In 27 weeks, you can:
- Earn a Personal Support Worker Certificate
- Acquire the skills and knowledge to work as a personal support worker
- Gain practical experience in a healthcare environment
- Earn 9 credits towards your Ontario Secondary School Diploma
Ontario Colleges Nursing Transformation: PSW to RPN Pathway
Ontario colleges are offering a new pathway for working PSWs who wish to continue their studies toward qualifying to practice in Ontario as a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN). The courses are designed to offer flexible study options for working PSWs for core components of the pathway to Practical Nursing programs offered at Ontario’s public colleges. Please Click here for information
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: When does the PSW Program start?
A: The PSW programs starts every quad.
Q: How long is the program?
A: The program is 27 weeks long over 3 9-week quads.
Q: Does the program have a break during the summer?
A: Yes, the program is on holiday break for the months of July and August.
Q: When do the programs finish?
A: Students beginning the program in September (Quad 1) will finish in April (Quad 3).
Students beginning the program in November (Quad 2) will finish in June (Quad 4).
Students beginning the program in February (Quad 3) will finish in November (Quad 1 of the following year).
Students beginning the program in April (Quad 4) will finish in February (Quad 2 of the following year).
Q: Are classes online or in person?
A: All PSW classes are in person from 8:25 am - 3:15 pm.
Q: Is daycare available through the school?
A: CALC does not offer daycare, students will need to make their own arrangements.
For further information or enquiries please leave us a MESSAGE.
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