Resident Support Aide and fully funded PSW programs are the mainstays of Governments at various levels.
One that enables you to become a Resident Support Aide and the other is to become a Personal Support Worker.
There are two programs that are being offered.
There are key differences between the two programs.
Below is important information that makes these programs distinct.
One particular program may suit you better than the other.
So, the information presented below will help you make an informed choice.
(Please note that the facts and information provided in this post is current as of March 07, 2021. If you’re reading this at a future date, the programs may not be offered. You can contact me at [email protected] if you have any questions).
The Free PSW Program
Federally Sponsored
The Government of Canada, in partnership with Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan), is offering a PSW educational program at no cost to the student.
This Government-funded free PSW program is to be rolled out in the spring of 2021.
It is going to be offered completely online.
The practical component of the course will be in person.
The best thing is, you’ll be paid as you complete your practicum.
Provincially Sponsored
The provincial Government-sponsored accelerated PSW program is much larger and aims to train and recruit 6000 new PSW.
It will provide additional support to 2000 existing PSW students.
The program is currently open and is accepting applications.
You can click here to find out how you can register for this program.
Key Differences
There is much confusion over the above-listed PSW and Resident Support Aide programs.
Many wonder which one is a better choice?
Here are some key characteristics of both programs.
The table below will provide you a better understanding and enable you in making an informed choice that suits you the best.
| Free PSW Program | Free Resident Support Aide Program | |
|---|---|---|
| Job Title | Personal Support Worker (PSW) | Resident Support Aide |
| Funded by | Government of Canada | Government of Ontario |
| Fees | Free | Free |
| Mode of Delivery | Online | Online |
| Educational Prerequisites | None | None |
| Resident Status Required | Canadian Citizen Canadian Permanent Resident Canadian Work Permit | Canadian Citizen Canadian Permanent Resident Canadian Work Permit |
| Healthcare Background | Not Required | Not Required |
| College | Public or Private College | Mediated by The Michener Institute of Education at UHN |
| Total Course Duration | 30 Weeks | 15 Hours |
| Duration of Theory | 6 week accelerated | 15 hours |
| Duration of Practicum | 24 weeks | None |
| Paid Training | 24 week practicum is paid | 15 hours of online training is paid |
| Hourly Salary | Upwards of $22/hr | $17/hr |
| Employment | Hospitals Long-term care Community Private care | Long-term care |
| Job Status | Full-time Part-time Casual | Casual As-needed |
| Vulnerable Sector Check | Required | Required |
| How to Apply | Registration to Open Soon | More Information |
As you can see, there are some similarities however the two programs are quite different.
The choice is yours and one might suit you better than the other.
Hope this information clears the air around the two programs.
If you still have questions, email me at [email protected] and I’ll be glad to answer your queries.
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About the Author
Hi! Is the Free PSW program applicable to those who are under Open Work Permit?
Justine…Permanent residents and Canadian Citizens are eligible for the free PSW program.