Quad 1 registration: August 20-22. See REGISTER NOW page for details*Updated Aug 19, 2025**
The Burnhamthorpe Adult Learning Centre Personal Support Worker (PSW) Certificate program is operated by the Toronto District School Board which has successfully graduated hundreds of PSW students over the years. The PSW program teaches students the skills necessary to provide personal care for individuals who are elderly, chronically ill, or face accessibility challenges.
The PSW program is 27 weeks long. It includes 18 weeks of classroom theory and 9 weeks of on the job training in a clinical and community setting. All applicants interested in the PSW program must register for regular classes first. Applicants will be put on a pathway that will eventually lead to entry into the PSW program during one of the intakes throughout the year. Our PSW program is always filled with internal students who are on a pathway only.
Many employment opportunities are available upon completion of the program in a variety of care settings including community settings, retirement homes, long-term care homes, hospitals and schools. Students in the PSW program must successfully complete the CESBA provincial exam to earn their certificate.
Introduction to Healthcare (Pre Health) Pathway
The Pre Health course prepares students for the PSW program curriculum. The course is lead by nurses who are still active in the field and who will provide real life experiences to go along with the course content. Students will be exposed to topics like medical terminology and anatomy & physiology. This is a mandatory pathway that all students must take if they are interested in the PSW program. Talk to our guidance team when registering!
Nursing Pathway (RPN or RN)
Many students opt to go onto nursing after completing the PSW program. All post secondary institutions require applicants to have at least English, Math, and Science credits to enter. BALC offers you credit bundles in order for you to reach your nursing goals! Talk to our guidance team when registering!
OSSD Pathway (High School Diploma)
Candidates who complete the PSW program earn nine senior credits that will go toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Many employers require an OSSD in order to be hired. BALC can help you with that. As an adult learner, you will have access to pathways that will enable you to reach this goal sooner than you think! Talk to our guidance team when registering!
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