Personal Support Worker Program at CALC

Registration for QUAD 4, April 22, 2026 PSW Intake is CLOSED.  

If you do not have the required grade 12 English level (ENG4C1/ENG4U1/ENG3U1) completed at an Ontario Secondary School, you may need to take further English classes.  Please see the Registration process linked here for our regular program.  

If you already have  one of the above required English courses, please check back here on May 26th for the online application for September 2026.

The PSW Program at CALC is a 27-Week full time IN PERSON Certificate Program                           

The PSW program is accredited by the Ontario Association of Adult and Continuing Education School Board Administrators (CESBA). The program offered at the City Adult Learning Centre (CALC) is aimed to prepare graduates with the knowledge and skills to provide direct, person-centered care to individuals including the elderly, chronically ill or those facing accessibility challenges.  

• Program Structure:

  • The program is divided into 3 parts.

  • Each part consists of 9 weeks of full-time study, encompassing 18 weeks of in-school learning and at least 9 weeks of practical placement.

  • Upon successful completion, participants earn a Personal Support Worker certificate.

• Eligibility:

  • Applicants must be over 19 years old and an Ontario resident.

  • Students 19-20 must have an OSSD.  Students over 21 must have an English level at a college grade 12 level or assessment at a grade 12 college English level in the CALC English assessment.

  • Applicants' legal status must be one of the following:

    • Canadian Citizen

    • Permanent Resident

    • Refugee Status + Study Permit (or proof of application for study permit - settlement workers will be available to assist)

    • International student holders of a valid Student Visa will require an Admission letter first before applying .  Contact TDSB International Students Office before applying.

• Application Steps:

  • Online Sign-Up: The initial step involves registering interest or beginning the application process through an online portal.

  • If you are eligible you will be contacted to come to an Information Session about CALC's Personal Support Worker program.  This is a mandatory requirement if you would like to be considered.  

  • English Language Assessment: Applicants may be required to attend an in-person English language assessment. This evaluation is crucial to ensure candidates possess the necessary communication skills for the PSW role.

  • Interview: Applicants with the required English level will be invited to attend a personal interview. This interview allows the department committee to evaluate the applicant's suitability, interpersonal skills, and understanding of the PSW profession and its requirements. 

• Program Features:

  • Tuition-Free: The program is offered without any tuition fees, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals.

  • Materials Provided: All necessary learning materials are included, eliminating additional costs for students.

  • Certificate Program: Upon completion, graduates receive a recognized Personal Support Worker certificate.

• Documentation Required for Placement:

  • Clear police vulnerable sector check

  • Medical documentation:  (Two-step TB Test, Covid vaccination (x3), Influenza vaccination, Immunization record and/or Blood Titres)

  • Pre-Placement Medical Form to be completed by a licensed M.D. or N.P. including functional and mental health abilities.

• All applicants must be capable of performing the essential duties of a Personal Support Worker with the highest quality of care which include but are not limited to:

  • Bending and lifting patients

  • Squatting and moving in various positions

  • Observing and responding to medical situations, including seeing blood

  • Supporting individuals at end-of-life stages

  • Managing and assisting with bodily fluids, including feces and urine

  • Interacting with patients who may exhibit verbally aggressive behaviour, particularly those with dementia

• Program emphasis:

  • The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experience in real-world settings.

  • The placement portion of the program is designed to give the students real world experience.

Personal Support Worker Program Description

Our comprehensive Personal Support Worker (PSW) program prepares you for a rewarding career in providing essential care and support to individuals in need. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience to equip you with the skills and confidence to excel as a PSW.

The theory component covers a range of topics, including:

• Roles and responsibilities of a PSW

• Client-centered care and communication

• Assisting with personal care, mobility, and medication

• Understanding various health conditions and special needs

• Safety protocols and ethical considerations

The practicum component provides real-world experience in diverse healthcare settings, such as long-term care facilities and community settings. Under the supervision of experienced professionals, you'll apply your knowledge, develop your clinical skills, and gain confidence in providing compassionate care.

Upon completion of this program, you'll be prepared to provide holistic, client-centered care, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Attendance

Students must be able to attend Part 1 and Part 2 classes every day (Monday to Friday) from 8:25 am to 3:15 pm.  For Part 3 (Placement) students must be at their placements everyday from 6:45 am to 3:00 pm. 

Course Codes and Durations

Part 1 in school theory (9 weeks)              TPJ3C1, TPJ2O1  

Part 2 in school theory (9 weeks)              TOJ4C1, TPJ4E1

Part 3 in placement (9 weeks)                   TOJ4CC, TPJ4ES    

Part 1 Intake starts 4 times a year - September (Quad 1), November (Quad 2), February (Quad 3) or April (Quad 4). The program is delivered over 3 quads or 27 weeks.  Concurrently Parts 2 and 3 are running at those times. CALC is closed for summer break during the months of July and August. 

For quad start dates please see CALC's home page.

Personal Support Workers are employed in:

• Private Homes

• Nursing Homes

• Seniors residences

• Hospices and hospitals

• Community centers

• Public schools

• Group homes

• Adult day care settings

The PSW Program prepares students to enter the healthcare field.  

In 27 weeks, you can:

• Earn a Personal Support Worker Certificate

• Acquire the skills and knowledge to work as a personal support worker

• Gain practical experience in a healthcare environment

• Earn 9 credits towards your Ontario Secondary School Diploma

Ontario Colleges Nursing Transformation: PSW to RPN Pathway 

Some Ontario colleges offer pathways for working PSWs who wish to continue their studies toward qualifying to practice in Ontario as a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN). The courses are designed to offer flexible study options for working PSWs for core components of the pathway to Practical Nursing programs offered at Ontario’s public colleges.  Please Click here for information.  Other colleges like George Brown College, Centennial and Mohawk College have PSW to PN bridging programs unique to their particular college and can be found on www.ontariocolleges.ca

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

 Q: When does the PSW Program start?

A: The PSW program starts every quad.

Q: How long is the program?

A:  The program is 27 weeks long over three 9-week quads.

Q:  Does the program have a break during the summer?

A:  Yes, the program is on holiday break for the months of July and August.

Q: When do the programs finish?

A:  Students beginning the program in September (Quad 1) will finish in April (Quad 3).

     Students beginning the program in November (Quad 2)  will finish in June (Quad 4).

     Students beginning the program in February (Quad 3) will finish in November (Quad 1 of the following year).

     Students beginning the program in April (Quad 4) will finish in February (Quad 2 of the following year).

Q: Are classes online or in person?

A: All PSW classes are in person whether in school or at placement.

Q: Is daycare available through the school?

A: CALC does not offer daycare, students will need to make their own arrangements. 

For further questions that are not answered here please email:

CityAdultSpecialtyPrograms@TDSB.on.ca