Earn as You Learn, Personal Support Worker
The Earn As You Learn, Personal Support Worker (PSW) program provides eligible participants in the Ottawa area the opportunity to train for a new career as a PSW. This program is in collaboration with Pinecrest-Queensway Employment Services, Private Career Colleges, Literacy and Basic Skills, and Healthcare employers.
Program Eligibility:
Unemployed, underemployed or working less than 20 hours per week OR;
Employed with a family household falls below the Low Income Cut Off chart
Over the age of 18
Not currently enrolled in any other education or training
Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
You may be suitable for the program if you are…
Interested in a career as a Personal Support Worker
Available to commit to up to 26 weeks of full time training
Education
Once accepted into the program, participants will start their full-time training to become a Personal Support Worker. This training is up to 26 weeks in length, starting 1 week of Soft Skills Solutions©, being facilitated by the Rideau-Ottawa Valley Learning Network. Participants will then go on to complete their PSW training with either triOS College or Willis College.
The in-class portion of the training will be delivered virtually whereas the lab component will be facilitated either in a classroom setting or on-site at a healthcare facility. Participants will also complete a practicum in a healthcare facility
Earn As You Learn
Throughout the training, you will have the opportunity to work part-time with a healthcare employer as either a Residential Care Attendant or a Home Support Worker*. This will allow you to earn an income while in school, and become familiar with the healthcare industry.
*Part-time positions as an RCA or HSW are dependent on positions available at the time, and participants’ availability for work
Post-education
After graduation, participants will have the opportunity to work at 1 of 4 healthcare employers as a certified Personal Support Worker. PQES Employment Counsellors will be available for up to 1 year after graduation to help you integrate into the workforce and help you overcome any bumps along the road.