How To Become A PSW
Becoming a personal support worker (PSW) can be a life-changing decision for those
who follow this path, as they are essentially choosing to make a positive impact in the
lives of people who, at one time or another, need a helping hand to get by. At Caring
Support, we want to help you decide if this is the career for you, whether you are
looking for a new occupation or you are finishing high school this year and are currently
weighing your options. Here is all the information you need about how to become
a PSW, plus the advantages and challenges of becoming one.
PSW Training And Diplomas
To become a PSW, candidates typically must complete a training program and obtain a
certificate or diploma depending on the institution, which can range from private, public,
or community college, to district school boards. In Ontario, all institutions offering PSW
programs have to be accredited by the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities
(MTCU).
However, according to personalsupportworkerhq.com, this was not always the case.
Prior to 2015, Ontario didn’t have a standard for Personal Support Worker programs
and, as a result, there was little consistency between the existing PSW training
programs and the actual execution of the profession in the field. To alleviate the
situation, the MTCU worked along with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care and
the Ministry of Education of Ontario to develop a common vocational standard.
To qualify for a PSW program, candidates usually must have completed any Grade 12
English, Biology or Human Development (ENG4C or equivalent), but some institutions
just require a Grade 11 Biology (C) or (U), or Grade 11 Health Care (C).
PSW training lasts anywhere from 8 months to 1 year, in the case of Ontario college
certificate programs. In general, these programs include classes on career
management, medical emergencies, interpersonal skills, safety & mobility, abuse,
household management, meal preparation, personal hygiene, assisting with
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