Personal Support Worker HQ

Resource for Personal Support Workers in Ontario

PERSONAL SUPPORT WORKER HQ #1 RESOURCE FOR PSWs IN ONTARIO

Avtar

Government of Canada’s Free Online PSW Training Program

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(Please note that the facts and information provided in this post is current as of March 02, 2021. If you’re reading this at a future date, the programs may not be offered. You can contact me at avtar@pswhq.com if you have any questions).

Personal Support Workers play a crucial role in the Canadian health sector. Their role has been more important than ever during the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic.

However,

with the lack of adequate training and low wages, this profession has faced significant attrition over the past few years.

In order to reduce the shortage of PSWs, the Government of Canada has recently announced a new free accelerated training program aimed at bringing more PSWs into the healthcare sector.

Please note that this online PSW training program is not being offered as of yet but will soon be available. We will inform you as soon as the Government announces further details. 

There are other Government funded programs available that you may want to consider.

The Government of Ontario has introduced a much larger program to assist 8200 Personal Support Workers.

There is another program that will provide training and recruit 373 Personal Support Workers. 

If you would like to become a Personal Support Worker, there are many free options as well. 

The Ontario Provincial Government has launched these two programs:

The Free Accerlated PSW Training Program Funded by the Ontario Government

Please note that the above program is now open for registration. 

Click here to view further details and how to register.

The Free Program to Provide Education and Recruit 373 PSWs

We are awaiting registration details about the federal Government’s online PSW program. 

For anyone who wishes to pursue the federally funded online PSW program, here’s some information you might want to know first:

Why the shortage? And how has the Government come to recognize PSWs to be an integral part of the Canadian healthcare system?

There is no singular reason for the drop in PSWs in Canada. 

This year, it seems to be related to the new stresses of COVID-19 and its accompanying healthcare restrictions.

Despite the many downsides to COVID-19, the linked shortage in PSWs has grabbed the Government’s attention regarding how important and vital these employees are to the healthcare system.

What is this new Free PSW Training program?

Approximately $23 million in funding will go towards Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) to provide an accelerated program for roughly 4,000 new PSW interns at no cost to students. 

The program includes a six-week online training portion, and a four-month paid work placement with an employer in-home or long-term care.

How is the Government of Canada involved in this PSW training program?

The Government is connected to funding CiCan through the Ministry of employment. 

Over time and with regular collaboration with interested partners, the Government is hoping to improve the recruitment and retention of PSWs in the workforce. 

Furthermore, the Government would like to take this opportunity to improve national healthcare standards while infusing the workforce with support workers.

How will this program be delivered?

CiCan has not mentioned specific colleges as of yet;

however,

CiCan will be collaborating with facilities and training providers across the country, making this an expansive training effort. We know for now that the free PSW program will be online followed by a paid placement.

What is the mode of delivery – online or in-class?

The only portion of the training that will not be remote includes the work training (paid) with employers at certain facilities for four months.

The six-week accelerated training will take place solely online. 

In total, students are looking at about 6 months of training before becoming certified.

Any prerequisites for Enrollment?

As of right now, not necessarily.  The only prerequisite is that applicants be qualified to work in Canada.

Fees associated with the program?

As mentioned previously, there are no tuition fees for this accelerated PSW program.  There has also not been any mentioned application fees yet.

How can one apply for this Program?

Enrollment for the accelerated program will begin in the Spring of 2021.  Prospective students just have to apply online.

We are keeping a close eye and will inform you as and when the free PSW program becomes available.

If you have any further questions regarding this free personal support worker training program, you can consult with CiCanrepresentatives directly or contact us. 

Other Options

While we await further details on this free Government PSW program, you can explore to see if any of the other PSW programs may be of best fit. 

If you’d like to get your feet wet or enhance your skills as a PSW, you can take this free training by the University of Toronto.

The training is completely online and the best thing, you get a certificate from the University of Toronto once your complete the online training. The certificate is a great asset if you are looking for a new job as a PSW and worth putting down in your resume as well. 

Government of Ontario’s PSW Work For Life Initiative

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As the COVID-19 pandemic persists, the Canadian healthcare system continues to scramble to provide optimal medical care across all settings.

One of the many challenges that are foreseeably weakening the system is maintaining an ever-decreasing healthcare workforce. 

Healthcare workers are experiencing fatigue with little support from healthcare organizations and the Government.

Many healthcare workers are leaving their profession because of these new stressors and other reasons.

In response, leading bodies such as the Government of Ontario have launched several programs.

There are new resources and programs to attract nurses and personal support workers (PSWs).

What is PSW Work For Life?

PSW Work For Life is an Ontario Government funded initiative implemented by the Home Care Ontario and the Ontario Community Support Association (OSCA). 

It is essentially a website that provides all the resources one would need to know when deciding to become a personal support worker.

The website provides an all-you-need-to-know information center about the opportunities and benefits that come with being a personal support worker (PSW). 

The following sections provide some highlights of what information you can expect to find on the personal support worker work for life program.

The Descriptions

The website provides a thorough description of what a personal support worker does according to Ontario standards. 

PSW Work for life basically describes information about personal support workers in layman terms.

In short, a PSW is considered a front-line, non-medical healthcare worker who assists patients with daily living tasks (dressing, eating, bathing, getting around, etc.) in order to aid in overall recovery.

Where do PSWs Work?

Personal support workers work in a wide variety of settings such as hospitals and long-term care homes and the community. 

The majority of PSWs work in the long-term care sector.

The need for PSWs in long-term care homes is stronger than ever, partially because of the pandemic and also because of the increased demands due to the aging population. 

Why Become a PSW?

The work for life personal support worker website lists some catching reasons for individuals to choose to become personal support workers.

More importantly, you have a kind heart and an urge to help those in need. 

There are many other reasons why you should seriously consider becoming a personal support worker. 

Some of these include flexible hours, job security, quick training, and participating in fulfilling work.

Joining the PSW Workforce

Become a personal support worker does require you to complete a diploma.

However, prerequisites for admission into a PSW program is a secondary schooling diploma and at least completion of 12th grade English.

Public and Private Colleges

The PSW diploma can be completed at either a public or an accredited private college.

If you are choosing a private college, keep in mind that it is an accredited college.

In addition, when choosing a private college, make sure you do your due diligence and ask the right questions. 

District School Boards

You can also become a PSW through some of the district school boards. 

Online PSW Programs

The best part is, there are many online options that you can choose to pursue your PSW education.

This is the best option as it allows you to complete the PSW diploma at your convenience and without the need to attend classes in person. 

Please note that you may be required to complete a practicum, which may be in-person. 

Free PSW Programs

Yes FREE!

There are many options to complete a PSW program at no cost to you. 

In fact, some of the programs pay you to become a personal support worker. 

The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario are offering PSW programs in partnership with private and public colleges.

Most of the Government-funded PSW programs are free and there is no cost to the students. 

There is a free online PSW program that plans to accept 4000 students.

The Government of Ontario is offering a PSW educational program of a much bigger magnitude. It is an accelerated PSW training program that pays you as you learn to become a Personal Support Worker.

Click here to view further details and how to register for the FREE Government program.

There is another training program that will recruit 373 PSWs. 

There is also a Resident Support Aide program that you can do to work in long-term care homes. Please note that this is not a PSW course however will let you work in long-term care homes. 

There is also an initiative that offers a $5000 incentive for committing to work for 6 months provided you graduated from the PSW program after April 1st, 2020. 

(Please note that the above incentive and the two free programs are time-sensitive and being offered as of February 11, 2021. If you are reading this information at a future date, the incentive and the programs may not be offered).

What are the Training Programs Like?

Depending on which college or program you choose, you are looking at finishing your schooling anywhere between 4 months to one year. 

Each program usually includes a compilation of in-class (personal or online) training and fieldwork hours in an actual healthcare setting. 

Each program must comply with a specific set of clinical standards as specified by each Canadian province.

What are the Salaries of a PSW?

Personal Support Worker salary varies depending on experience level and the type of healthcare setting. 

According to the personal support worker work for life website, starting salaries begin at approximately $28,000 and can go up to $60,000 annually.

“Work for Life” also provides links to common job search sites such as Indeed, Monster, and Simply Hired. 

This campaign walks interested individuals through the entire journey of becoming a PSW in Ontario from start to finish. 

The “work for life” website is available to view in multiple languages and contact information is easily accessible for all visitors.

If you found the information useful, please share using the links at the top of the page. 

Government of Ontario’s New Resident Support Aide Program

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The Government of Ontario's new recruiting program. Work as resident support aide.

The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-term Care announced back in November of 2020, the plans to increase support for the long-term care sector.

Long-term care homes across Canada are experiencing an ever-persistent shortage of care support for their elderly patients.

The new Resident Support Aide Ontario recruiting program is meant to alleviate the staffing shortage at long-term care homes.   

What is This new Government Recruiting Program?

The “Ontario Workforce Reserve for Senior Support” has been created to recruit and train those who are called Resident Support Aides (RSAs) to assist residents in long-term care facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

Please note that this is not a program if you want to become a Personal Support Worker. 

There are some key differences between a Resident Support Aide and a PSW. 

If you would like to become a Personal Support Worker, there are many free options. 

Governments at various levels are also funding PSW programs. 

Three major Government-funded programs are:

The Free Online PSW Training Program Funded by the Federal Government

The Free Accerlated PSW Training Program Funded by the Ontario Government

Click here to view further details and how to register.

The Free Program to Provide Education and Recruit 373 PSWs

The Michener Institute of Education at University Health Network is taking applications for the Resident Support Aide program through the Ontario Matching Portal.

Through this initiative, Resident support aides are being hired to work at facilities across the province of Ontario.

How Does it Work?

Anyone can apply to the program and become a Resident Support Aide.

The program is geared to peak the interests of those adults who are currently unemployed or displaced from the healthcare field, whether it’s in the professional or the academic realms.

You do not have to have a personal support worker diploma to apply. A background in healthcare is not required.

Internationally educated nurses (IENs) and other healthcare professionals who can legally work in Canada but are not registered with their respective regulatory bodies can also apply to this program and become a resident support aide.

Before you can apply, you will have to set up an account and create your profile on the Ontario Matching Portal.

This is a great opportunity if you have been considering becoming a personal support worker. 

Working as a resident support aide will give you an opportunity to work in long-term care homes.

Moreover, you will get to work along with other healthcare professionals such as personal support workers, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and physicians. 

You will need to provide your vulnerable screening check, a copy of your immunization record, and three professional references.

Where do Resident Support Aides Work?

Resident support aides under this Government initiative are hired by the following four hospitals:

  • University Health Network,
  • The Ottawa Hospital,
  • Trillium Health Partners and
  • MacKenzie Health.

You will be assigned to work at the long-term care homes associated with these hospitals.

The current Resident Support Aide program includes the greater Toronto area, Ottawa, and the Region of Peel. There are plans to expand the program to other regions soon!

Is Hiring for Full-Time or Part-Time Positions?

The Ministry of Health classifies this position as “call-in”.

Essentially what it means is that you’ll be hired on an as-needed basis or casual.

You’ll be informed of your work schedule at some point during the hiring process.

Resident Support Aide Salary?

The pay is fairly competitive but not at par with the salary of personal support workers. 

Resident support aides are currently hired to work at $17 per hour.

There is an initial paid online training component following which you’ll be eligible to work.

Resident Support Aide Job Description

As the job titles states, you will support the long-term care home residents in their routine activities.

Resident support aides’ duties differ from that of personal support workers’ job duties. 

As a resident support aide, you will be expected to assist senior residents with activities of daily living and similar tasks that will help lighten the workload of other frontline staff so they can focus on treatment within their scope of practice.

Some of the tasks you may have to do are:

  • Setting up meal trays,
  • Distributing food and snacks,,
  • Greeting visitors,
  • Assisting residents with technology and recreation, and
  • Stocking supplies.

In addition to the tasks listed above, you may also be required to do the following tasks:

  • Assisting residents in dressing up,
  • Helping to set up the TV or other electronic media, and
  • Opening food containers.

Overall, the goal of a resident support aide is to provide comfort and communicate any needs of the residents to the registered members of the healthcare team such as Registered Nurses (RNs) or Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs).

The Hiring Process

Job applications are to be completed online using the Michener Institute of Education Ontario Matching portal (More on how to apply is at the end of this post).

Once you have submitted the application and been selected for the program, Wilson HCG will contact you.

Online Learning

Once you have been contacted by Wilson HCG, you will then begin the online learning module.

The online component of the program is approximately 15 hours and you will be paid to do your online learning.

You are expected to complete the online training within one week.

The online training received through the Ontario Matching Portal includes:

  • Infection Prevention and Control,
  • Using the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and
  • An overview of long-term care homes and seniors care. 

Once you have completed the paid online training, you will be matched to a long-term care unit where there is a need.

Placements depend on the need and capacity of the long-term care homes in your region.

Currently, significant shortages are in facilities located in Ottawa, Peel, and Toronto.

COVID-19 Testing Requirements

Resident support aides work with the vulnerable at the long-term care homes in Ontario.

Therefore, you are expected to undergo a COVID-19 test prior to your placement.

In addition, you will have to get a COVID-19 test done every two weeks for the duration of your employment.

Duration of Employment

The role of resident support aides is to assist the long-term care home staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

You will be hired on an “as needed” basis.

How to Apply?

Resident support aide program applications are being accepted through the Michener Institute of Education at University Health Network.

If you’re interested in becoming a Resident Support Aide, click here to start your application.

Keep in mind that you will need to use the most recent version of Firefox, Chrome, or Safari. The above link to fill out the application is not compatible with Internet Explorer.

From the home page of the Ontario Matching Portal, choose “Individuals, I want to help” to proceed. Refer to the picture below.

Apply to become a Resident Support Aide in Ontario

You will then be presented with several options.

A brief description is provided under each category.

There are six different categories that you can choose to register:

  • Ontario Workforce Reserve for SeniorSupport (OWRSS), Resident Support Aide (RSA),
  • Non-Health care Professionals,
  • Internationally Educated HealthProfessionals (IEHPs),
  • Regulated Health Professionals,
  • Non-Regulated Health Professionals, and
  • Professionals in Training.

Choose the one that best applies to you.

Please note that if you are a personal support worker and would like to offer assistance as a resident support aide, you will choose the “non-regulated health professionals”.

If you have any questions or need assistance in completing your application, contact me (Avtar) at avtar@pswhq.com and I will be happy to guide you through.

If you like the information and think someone will benefit from it, please spread the word.

You can share this information using one of the links at the top of the post.

Government of Ontario’s Funding to Train PSWs

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Government of Ontario is funding the recruitment of 373 Personal Support Workers.

[UPDATE]

In addition to the initiative to train and recruit 373 PSWs,  the Government of Ontario has introduced a new program. This expanded program will provide free education and paid training to 6000 new students. The program will also assist 2200 existing PSW students. Find out more details about this program here. 

The program to train and recruit 6000 PSWs is now open for registration. 

Click here to view further details and how to register.

Personal Support Workers are the major providers of care.

There are 120,000 PSWs working in Ontario out of which 40,000 work in the long-term care sector. 

Over the past year, we have seen multiple Government announcements to provide accelerated training programs in order to recruit more Personal Support Workers. 

These announcements have come both, at the Federal and Provincial levels. 

On February 22, 2021, the Ontario Minister of Labour, Training, and Skills Development, Montee McNaughton, along with the Minister of Long-term Care, Dr. Merrilee Fullerton, made an announcement regarding a $4 million investment to help train and provide funding/resources for 373 new Personal Support Workers (PSWs).


“But the need for them is greater than it has ever been, especially as we begin adding more direct care for a growing seniors’ population.”


Minister of Long-Term Care Dr. Merrilee Fullerton

Please note that this is a Government of Ontario initiative. 

The Federal Government has also announced a free accelerated PSW training program that we are still waiting to find further details.

This initiative to train and hire 373 PSWs is focused on areas most impacted by COVID-19.

Do note that the Government’s long-term plan is to recruit 27,000 PSWs, Registered Nurses (RNs), and Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs). 

Here are some quick facts about this funding announcement:

Funding to TrainPersonal Support Workers
Number of PSWs to be trained373
Number of programs to train PSWs8
Location of training programsHamilton & Burlington
Greater Toronto Area
Lanark & Renfrew
Kitchener
North Bay
Hamilton
London
Ottawa

The Overview

This initiative to train and employ 373 Personal Support Workers is one of many programs launched by the Government of Ontario.

Some of the other Government programs recently launched are:

New program to become a Resident Support Aide

New PSW Work for Life initiative

$5000 PSW Return of Service initiative

The program will assist in training and hiring PSWs in Ontario that has been the hardest hit by the prevailing pandemic. 

The Government has chosen six lead organizations to deliver free-tuition PSW programs in the province of Ontario.  

Here is the breakdown:

CollegeLocationPSWs to be Trained
Canadore CollegeNorth Bay20
Canadian Career AcademyLanark & Renfrew60
Mohawk College Hamilton20
Pinecrest-Queensway CHCOttawa120
VONGTA33
ParaMedKitchener 60
ParaMedLondon30
ParaMedBurlington/Hamilton30
Total373

How to Enroll

Pertinent details and contact information for each organization partnered to deliver this program is listed below. 

However, 

since this is a Government-funded program, it is best to contact your local Employment office as well. 

Contact Employment Ontario

You have several options to contact your local Employment Ontario office.

Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm ET
Telephone: 416-326-5656
Toll-free: 1-800-387-5656
Email: contactEO@ontario.ca

You can also chat live with someone at Employment Ontario. 

Canadore College

The PSW program at Canadore College will connect 20 unemployed job seekers from the local Ontario Works caseload with PSW training.

Location of campus: North Bay

Number of students accepted: 20

Certificate earned: Personal Support Worker

Contact
Nancy R. Bush, RPN – Professor / Coordinator
Professor
705.474.7600 ext. 5145
nancy.bush@canadorecollege.ca

or

Canadore College Admissions Office
705.474.7600 ext. 5123
admissions@canadorecollege.ca

Canadian Career Academy

The Pathway2PSW project in Lanark and Renfrew counties will provide free training, which includes healthcare assessment, formal healthcare training, and virtual reality learning.

Location of campus(s): Lanark and Renfrew

Number of students accepted: 60

Certificate earned: Personal Support Worker

Contact
E-mail: cca@canadacareer.ca
Phone: 613-257-3237

Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology

Students will be trained to become job-ready, skilled PSWs using healthcare sector employment and training services.

Location of campus: Hamilton

Number of students accepted: 20

Certificate earned: Personal Support Worker

Contact

Student recruitment at Mohawk College

Get in touch with an admission advisor, or 

Call at 1-844-767-6871

Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre

This is an “Earn As You Learn” PSW Certification project.

Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre is offering this program in partnership with two career colleges in the region. 

Location of campus(s): Ottawa

Number of students accepted: 120

Certificate earned: Personal Support Worker

Contact

Pinecrest Queensway Employment Services
2525 Carling Avenue, Unit 6
Ottawa, ON K2B 7Z2
Telephone: 613-288-3880
Email: employment.info@pqchc.com

Victorian Order for Nurses for Canada-Ontario Branch

Trios College and the National Association of Career Colleges are partnering to provide a 17-week training PSW program accompanied by an 11-week field placement.

Location of campus(s): GTA (Greater Toronto Area)

Number of students accepted: 33

Certificate earned: Personal Support Worker

Contact

Greater Toronto Area: 647 788 3180 or toll-free 1 855 285 2991
Region of Peel: 1 800 727 1581

ParaMed

The Kitchener program is a 21-week accelerated PSW program, preparing students to work in the home and community healthcare sector.  The London and Burlington/Hamilton programs offer the Fast Track PSW program through Conestoga College.

Location of Campus(s): Kitchener, London, Burlington/Hamilton

Number of students accepted: 60 at Kitchener, 30 at London, and 30 at Burlington/Hamilton

Certificate earned: Personal Support Worker

Contact

Trios College:

London and Kitchener campus: 1-800-898-7467

You can chat live with an admission representative. 

Conestoga College:

PSWinfo@conestogac.on.ca

Remember that all these programs are funded by the Government of Ontario. 

In order for you to pursue one of the listed programs, you must contact the individual college or organization first.

It is also a good idea to contact your local Employment Ontario office.

Government Program to Recruit 8200 Personal Support Workers: PART 1

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Fully government funded PSW training program that lets you become a Personal Support Worker in 6 months.

Last year, the Government of Ontario made a promise to strengthen healthcare delivery, especially in long-term care homes.

In addition, the Government announced plans for education, training, and to provide full-time employment to 27,000 Registered Nurses (RNs), Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs), and Personal Support Workers (PSWs). 

UPDATE (March 02, 2021): The registration for the PSW program to train and recruit 6000 PSWs is now open. 

Click here to view further details and how to register.

Working towards fulfilling this promise, there have been many programs launched by Governments at various levels.

All these programs are being offered at little to no cost to the students. 

There is a program to train and recruit 373 PSWs, a return of service $5000 incentive associated with certain PSW jobs posted through Health Force Ontario, a Resident Support Aide program, and a PSW “Work for Life” awareness program about the opportunities and benefits of becoming a Personal Support Worker.  

There is also an initiative funded by the Federal Government. 

Through this federal program, 4000 individuals will be provided education and training to become Personal Support Workers however we are awaiting the release of further details.

Hiring 8200 Personal Support Workers

According to the Government of Ontario’s latest announcement, 8200 individuals will be able to benefit from this new accelerated PSW training program. 

It is one of the largest roll-outs of Government programs in history aimed at providing free education, training, and subsequent employment to such a large number of students. 

Here are some of the key points you may want to know about this program:

  
Funded byGovernment of Ontario
Cost to StudentsTuition Free Program
Program Offered by Community Colleges
At Which Colleges? All Community Colleges in Ontario
Who can Apply?Canadian Residents
Students To be Admitted6000
Existing PSW Students to Benefit2200
Benefit for Existing Student$2000 each
Existing PSW Student BenefitFor those in Community Colleges
Applications OpenEarly March, 2021
Program BeginsEarly-mid April, 2021
DeliveryFull-time
Total Duration6 Months
Course WorkFirst 3 Months
Practicum BeginsAfter 3 Months
Practicum Paid?Yes
Practicum LocationLong-term Care
Community Settings

What is the New Government Program?

The Ontario government is investing approximately $115 million to train  8,200 PSWs for Ontario’s healthcare and long-term care sectors. 

Funding will be dispersed amongst new students and qualifying PSW students who are already enrolled in existing programs. 

6000 students will get the opportunity to take this program free of cost. 

2200 students who are already enrolled in a PSW program at publically funded Community Colleges will receive $2000 in benefit. 

The government is collaborating with 24 publicly assisted colleges to provide a fully-funded program for interested students.

Largest Educational Program of its Kind

As of today, this initiative is one of the largest funded recruiting and training plans in Ontario history. 

A similar initiative of a smaller magnitude was announced in mid-February 2021, stating that the Government would invest up to $4.1 million to fund 373 PSWs for the province’s healthcare sector. 

This plan fell under intense scrutiny and was clearly not enough.

It was inadequate with a very limited number of available spots. 

While still not sufficient to meet the needs of people who need care, this new plan to assist 8200 students is definitely of a much larger scale. 

The Delay in Implementing Such Programs

The Government of Ontario initially started planning these programs in the summer of 2019.

When the pandemic struck, the province had to scramble through a three-tiered plan:

  • Emergency response,
  • Stabilization, and
  • Long-term care improvement.

The government has been aware of the staff shortages in long-term care, which has worsened with the onset of COVID-19. 

Keep in mind that this may not be the last Government initiative to ramp up care delivery in long-term care homes.

It is the Government’s resolve to fill 27,000 full-time positions by 2024-2025. 

Do note that these full-time positions are for Registered Nurses (RNs), Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) and Personal Support Workers combined. 

Accelerated PSW Program Details

The new tuition-free PSW program is going to be offered in collaboration with 24 publically funded Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology in Ontario.

Registration for the FREE Government-sponsored accelerated PSW program is open and applications are being accepted. 

Click here to view further details and how to register. 

For those who wish to be informed of such opportunities in the future but are not subscribers of PSWHQ, you can subscribe by filling out the form below. 

How Many Students is the Program Accepting?

This accelerated tuition-free PSW program is going to provide optimal training and certification for 6,000 new students.

Programs will be facilitated by 24 Community Colleges across Ontario. 

How Long is the PSW Program?

Instead of the average 8 months, it takes to complete a PSW certificate program, this accelerated PSW training program will have you trained and certified in 6 months.

There are two components of this program.

Course Curriculum

This section of the course is comprised of a 3-month in-class educational component that will be completed at the Community College. 

Onsite-Training

The theory component of the program will be followed by a 3-month practicum that will take place at any of the following settings:

  • The long-term care home,
  • In a home, or
  • Community care environment.

Tuition-Free PSW Program

To obtain a PSW certificate typically costs anywhere between $4000 to $10,000. 

It may cost even more at a Private Career College. 

This program is offered at no cost to you!

It is a tuition-free program, fully funded by the provincial government. 

Earn As You Learn: Paid Training

As previously mentioned, the program comprises theory and training components. 

The course curriculum will be completed in a classroom setting while training will be hands-on. 

The best part is, 

You will be paid to complete the 3-month training. 

This is a huge bonus that gives you an opportunity to start earning after 3 months of being enrolled in the program.  

Tuition Grant for Existing Students

The Ontario Government is also providing tuition assistance through this initiative to students who are already enrolled in existing PSW programs.

2200 PSW students will receive a $2,000 tuition grant to aid them in completing their studies. 

This grant will also include a stipend in order to complete the clinical placement portion of their PSW program.

  
Existing PSW Students to Benefit2200 Students
Benefit for Existing Student$2000 each
Existing PSW Student BenefitFor those in Community Colleges
How to Get the BenefitContact Your College
Private College PSW StudentsDo Not Qualify

Please note that the tuition grant is only available to PSW students who are enrolled in publically funded Community Colleges. 

It is not available to the students who are enrolled in Private Career Colleges. 

When Does Registration Open?

Registration for this accelerated PSW training program will be available through the Ontario College Application Centre. 

Registration has started and applications are being accepted. 

Click here to view further details and find out how to register. 

If you’d like to be informed of programs like these in the future, fill out the form below to subscribe for updates.

You do not have to subscribe if you already receive our emails. 

The program is being offered with starts in April, May, and June 2021. 

Personal Support Worker (PSW) to Practical Nurse (PN) Bridging Programs

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PSW to Practical Nursing Bridging Programs

Are you a Personal Support Worker (PSW) and looking to become a Nurse?

If you answered yes…

you have come to the right place.

We have made a list of all the PSW to RPN briding programs in Ontario. 

You will find all the details you need to upgrade from a PSW to a practical nurse. 

There are many benefits of advancing your clinical practice.

Job opportunities for RPNs are becoming especially prevalent as the geriatric population in Ontario is growing, thus demonstrating a need for qualified nursing care in:

  • acute care settings,
  • community health agencies, and
  • long-term care facilities.

The Government of Ontario is also actively supporting and funding the training and recruitment of 27,000 Registered Nurses (RNs), Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs), and PSWs. 

As a Registered Practical Nurse, you will also be entitled to job benefits such as higher pay and greater job satisfaction.

Upon enrolling in a Practical Nursing (PN) program, those with a PSW certificate are usually given a credit.

There are many colleges that offer Personal Support Worker to Practical Nursing bridging programs.

In this article you’ll learn:

  • Which colleges offer this program?
  • The cost
  • Duration
  • Intake, and
  • Direct links to college websites.

Subsequently, this article will equip you with valuable information that you will need in order to make an informed decision regarding enrolling in a bridge program.

Here is a glimpse of all the Community Colleges that offer PSW to Practical Nursing bridging programs

CollegeDelieveryDurationLocation
Mohawk CollegeFull-time
In-person		12 monthsHamilton
Fleming CollegePart-timeAt your own pacePeterborough
George Brown Full-time1 SemesterToronto
Algonquin CollegeProgram
on
hold
Conestoga CollegePart-timeWithin 2 YearsKitchener
Centennial CollegePart-time4 CoursesVaries
Humber CollegePart-timeVariesVaries
Sheridan CollegePart-time4 CoursesOnline

What is a PSW to Practical Nursing Bridging Program?

A bridge program is defined as a formal partnership between two post-secondary education providers.

It provides students with advanced standing within a program at a particular educational institution through the recognition of their academic history in a similar discipline.

Bridge courses can be classified into three distinct types:

  • bilateral,
  • multilateral, and
  • concurrent.

Bilateral and multilateral agreements are between two or more similar institutions and are typically the type that post-secondary schools offer with respect to PSW to RPN bridge programs.

Where are the Programs Offered?

Nurse
PSW to PN bridging programs

Many institutions in Ontario offer continuing education and bridging programs for Personal Support Worker to enable them to become Registered Practical Nurses.

Following is a list of colleges that offer this bridging program in Ontario, Canada.

Mohawk College

Mohawk College offers a Practical Nursing (PSW to PN bridging stream) program.

This program is specifically designed for those who have completed a certified PSW course in order to advance into the second semester of the Practical Nursing program.

The program emphasizes collaborative learning alongside clinical training, theory and lab work.

Following the completion of the Practical Nursing diploma program, graduates are eligible to take the Canadian Registered Practical Nurse Examination (CRPNE), administered by the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO).

Admission Requirements

To apply for this Mohawk PSW to PN bridging program, you will need to:

  • Submit proof of completion of Grade 12 English C or U,
  • Grade 11 or 12 Mathematics C, M or U (M or U recommended), 
  • Grade 11 or 12 Sciences, and
  • Evidence of completion of a Personal Support Worker Certificate program from an accredited Ontario college since 2006.

Once you meet the above requirements, you will also be asked to take the Health Occupation Aptitude Examination (HOAE) test with the Mohawk Pre-Admission Testing Centre for a $50 fee.

Please note that this is a very competitive program and you must apply as early as possible.

Cost

The estimated cost for the first year of the Practical Nurse program is $6,152.10.

Mohawk also offers specialized Practical Nurse training for Aboriginal communities. The cost of this program is $5,962.87 for one year.

Additional costs for both programs include pre-clinical placement clearance costs such as:

  • hepatitis injections,
  • CPR training,
  • facial mask fitting, and
  • police clearance.

There is no distance education program currently offered, but some non-nursing courses are available online.

For more details about the Practical Nursing (PSW to PN bridging stream) at Mohawk College, visit the Mohawk College website.

Fleming College

Fleming College offers a great bridging opportunity for Personal Support Workers who have graduated from a PSW course at an accredited private or community college.

The courses are housed under the Fleming College Continuing Education & Online Learning program.

You must complete the following bridging courses:

  • Bridge PSW to PN filed placement
  • Clinical Nursing Informatics
  • Communications I (English I),
  • Bridged Nursing Theory,
  • Anatomy & Physiology,
  • Math for Nursing, and
  • Communications.

All these courses can be taken part-time however the PN program is a full-time day program offered only at the Sutherland Campus in Peterborough.

Upon completion of the bridging courses, you will be eligible for the second semester of the full-time PN program.

Courses are registered and paid for individually.

All courses take place on their Sutherland campus, cost $5.40 per course hour, and range from 15-60 hours. Courses, therefore, range between $ 104.70 and $ 418.80 each in total.

Find out more details about the Personal Support Worker bridging to Practical Nursing at Fleming College. 

George Brown College

George Brown College offers a full-time Personal Support Worker Pathway to the Practical Nursing Program.

This is a 14 – week full-time study program that is completed over 1 semester. 

The PSW pathway prepares you for entry into the Practical Nursing program at George Brown.

Upon completion of the bridging pathway, you will be eligible for admission to the Practical Nursing program at George Brown College. 

Admission Requirements

To qualify for admission into the pathway program, applicants must have graduated from a Personal Support Worker Certificate program at a Community College or an accredited Private Career College with a minimum 3.0-grade point average.

Specific requirements are:

  • Grade 12 English C or U with a minimum grade of 65%
  • Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 Math (C or U) with a minimum grade of 65%

Mature Student Requirements

You will be considered a mature student if:

  • You are 19 years of age or older, and
  • Do not have the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

As a mature student, you will have to fulfill additional admission requirements. 

You have two options to fulfill the requirements:

  • Take an admissions assessment for English and Maths, or
  • Upgrade your credentials in English and Maths. 

You must complete the following required courses:

  • Science,
  • Mathematics,
  • Pathway English,
  • Principles in Biology, and
  • Health and Wellness

The domestic student tuition fee for this one-semester program is $2006.00.

The George Brown Personal Support Worker Pathway to Practical Nursing is eligible for OSAP funding. 

Find out more details of the PSW to Practical Nursing pathway at George Brown College. 

Algonquin College

***Please note that this program is currently on hold however you may qualify to be admitted directly into the Practical Nursing Program at Algonquin College. ***

The bridging program at Algonquin College is called the “Academic Pathway for Movement from Personal Support Worker to Practical Nursing Program”.

This academic pathway can potentially allow PSW course graduates to immediately enter Level 2 of the Practical Nursing program.

Hence, it is classified as a pathway and not a program.

Students are required to complete a series of classes and if they are successful, will be permitted to apply to Level 2 of the Practical Nursing curriculum without having to take further high school classes or equivalences.

The pathway is designed to provide students with a higher level of knowledge and practice through which they can potentially advance their nursing careers.

All applicants to this pathway:

  • Must have the equivalent of one year of full-time practice hours as a PSW which totals 1750 hours.
  • Are also expected to have a minimum of 30% of the hours in a Home for the Aged and/or Long Term Care agency.

Additionally,

  • Applicants must also have a reference letter from a current or recent employer which describes his or her work experience.
  • Applicants who have graduated from a community college must have a minimum GPA of 70% or have obtained a minimum of 70%  in their Personal Support Worker program.
  • Applicants who have completed their PSW program from a private college or Vocational High School must have 70% overall.

With an entry in May of each year, this program comprises of the following courses:

  • Communications,
  • Introduction To Psychology,
  • PSW to PN Nursing Theory and Seminar, and
  • Fundamentals of  Anatomy  and Physiology for PSW to PN Bridge

Courses are to be taken individually for $374 to $389 each. The total tuition fee for the course is approximately $1470.

The course itself lasts one semester and students are required to obtain at least 63% in all courses.

A minimum of 55% is required on the Health Occupations Aptitude Exam (HOAE) test which you will be required to take after completing the pathway.

Ten places in the Practical Nursing  (PN) program are reserved for students who earn the highest marks with the remaining applicants being placed in a pool to be chosen for the course based on availability.

The program is offered at the school’s Woodroffe Campus.

Find out more details about the Algonquin College PSW to Practical Nursing pathway.

Conestoga College

The Conestoga College Personal Support Worker to Practical Nurse bridge allows those who have successfully completed a PSW program to enter the 3rd semester of the Practical Nursing (PN) course offered by this college.

Classes must be taken in a specific order as per guidelines.

This program is offered on a part-time basis with classes being offered one day per week. The bridging course at Conestoga College takes approximately two years to complete.

Some of the highlights of the program are:

  • There is only 1 intake into the program that takes place in the winter term,
  • Applications open in August of each year, and
  • The deadline to apply to this program is in November.

Students who complete this bridging program will then be offered the opportunity to undertake the third semester of the PN program part-time.

There is also a possibility of transferring to full-time if space is available in the full-time program.

The fourth semester of the PN course contains a clinical element and must be taken full-time.

Therefore the bridging courses, in addition to the final two semesters of the PN program, will take between three to four years to complete.

The process might seem to be a bit confusing.

It is best to contact the program facilitator to get more information. 

The current program contact is Karen Towler and you can email her at ktowler@conestogac.on.ca if you have any questions. 

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have:

  • A Personal Support Worker Certificate from an Ontario accredited college,
  • You must be currently employed as a Personal Support Worker,
  • The following Ontario Secondary School courses (or equivalents), with a minimum cumulative average of 75% are required:
    • Grade 12 compulsory English, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory CommunicationsGrade 12 Mathematics, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory MathematicsGrade 11 or 12 Biology, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory BiologyGrade 11 or 12 Physics or Chemistry, C or U, or equivalent, or Grade 11 or 12 Science, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Physics or Preparatory Chemistry

As the program is offered on a part-time basis, course fees are individual and charged per class. 

The course is offered at the school’s Doon Campus in Kitchener, Ontario. 

Find out more details about the Personal Support Worker to Practical Nursing bridge. 

Centennial College

This is a certificate program that prepares you to be eligible for admission to the Practical Nursing Program at Centennial. 

This Personal Support Worker – Bridging to Practical Nursing at Centennial College  prepares PSWs for entry into the Practical Nursing program by focussing on areas such as:

  • Required Math skills, and
  • Required knowledge of biology.

This program is designed to prepare you for the nursing program using various modes of learning and incorporates:

  • classroom,
  • online, and
  • collaborative activities.

At the end of this program, graduates will be able to enter the first semester of the Centennial College Practical Nursing Program-Flexible.

Admission Requirements

In order to apply for this program you:

  • must have completed an Ontario Personal Support Worker Certificate as of 2006 and onward,
  • You must have taken the PSW program at an Ontario Community College or an accredited Private Career College,
  • must have obtained a minimum GPA of 3.5 or 75% overall in the PSW program with no failures,
  • Must be a domestic student (no international students).

Course Duration

You can complete this bridging program within 2 semesters. 

You must successfully complete the following courses with a minimum GPA of 3.0 in each course:

  • Basic Math for Healthcare Providers, 
  • Introduction to Human Biology,
  • Therapeutic Communication, and
  • Strategies for Academic Success.

Find out more details about the Personal Support Worker – Bridging to Practical Nursing program at Centennial College.

You can also contact the program administrator at 416 289 5000 ext. 4531 or via email at healthstudies.pt@centennialcollege.ca

Humber College

Humber College offers a unique opportunity for entry into the Practical Nursing Program. 

If you’re to apply to the Practical Nursing program at Humber, you must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Grade 11 or 12  Biology
  • Grade 11 or 12 Chemistry
  • Grade 12 Math

If you’ve already completed the above-listed course, you’ll still have to undergo mandatory pre-admission testing in essay writing, Math, Biology, and Chemistry.

However, 

if you do not have the above-listed courses, you can still become eligible for entry into the Practical Nursing program by choosing one of the following two pathways:

Pathway 1

If you need academic upgrading in English, Math, and Sciences, you must do the following:

This is a free program geared towards helping you upgrade your English, Sciences (Biology and Chemistry) and Math.

The academic upgrading at Humber College is an Employment Ontario program funded by the Ontario government

After completion of the LBS Program, you’ll be ready to write the Practical Nursing pre-admission test.

Please note that you must be at least 19 years of age in order to be eligible for applying to the LBS program.

Take the following academic subjects in Adult Day or Night school:

  • Grade 12 English,
  • Grade 11 or 12 Biology,
  • Grade 11 or 12 Chemistry, and
  • Grade 12 Math.

Successful completion of these subjects will prepare you for the pre-admission test. 

Please note that the final admission into the Practical Nursing program will depend on the outcome of the pre-admission test.

For more information, you can call 416-675-6622 ext. 4842.

Visit the Humber College website for more information about the free academic upgrading program. 

Pathway 2

The other way you can become eligible for applying to the Practical Nursing program is by completing the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees. 

This is a full-time course spread over two semesters (8 months).

This program starts in September only.

Admission Requirements

For admission to the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program, you must write a pre-admission test.

This test will test you in:

  • English,
  • Math,
  • Biology, and
  • Chemistry.

Your score only in English and Maths is considered for admission purposes.

Your score in Biology and Chemistry is used to determine your preparedness for the program.

If you successfully complete this Pre-Health Sciences Pathway, you’ll be eligible for applying to the Practical Nursing Program.

For any further questions or clarification, you may call the Humber College admissions department at 416 675  6622 ext. 4287.

Visit the Humber College website for more information on the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program.

Sheridan College

Sheridan College PSW to PN bridging is very well structured. 

There are 4 courses in total and each course can be completed over 4 months.

All the courses can be completed online. 

  • PSW to PN Biology, 
  • PSW to PN Chemistry, 
  • PSW to PN Math, and 
  • PSW to PN Professional Transitions

Sheridan College PSW to nursing bridging program accepts PSWs with a diploma from a community college. 

Those who have completed the PSW diploma from a private college must contact admissions before proceeding. 

Cost

There is a fee of $325 for each course. 

With 4 courses, the total cost of the PSW to PN bridging program at Sheridan College comes out to be approximately $1300.

You can visit the Sheridan College website for more information. 

If you want to apply to this program, you can fill out the application here. 

What Are You Waiting For?

There are so many opportunities for you to advance your career and there is absolutely no reason you should not.

Once you have determined the right kind of program to suit your lifestyle, you will find that the investment you make in one of these courses will greatly enhance your professional life.

Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained on this article is current and accurate. PSWHQ has provided this information in the best interests to inform the readers and is not liable for any actions taken by any party based on the information provided.   

Image credit: “Nurse” used under a Creative Commons Attribution from waltstoneburner on Flickr.

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