GUELPH, Ontario – The Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB), through its Continuing Education department, is proud to announce a new 38-week Personal Support Worker (PSW) program beginning in January 2026 at the Guelph Continuing Education campus.
This hands-on program is designed for learners ready to build a meaningful career supporting the health and well-being of others in homes, long-term care and support settings. With practical experience, certification opportunities and connections to employers, graduates will be well-positioned to step into in-demand roles in the healthcare sector.
Program at a glance:
Duration: January through September (38 weeks, ~25 hours/week)
Location: College Heights Secondary School, 171 College Ave W., Guelph
Clinical practice: 330 hours of hands-on placement experience.
Curriculum includes: anatomy & physiology, mobility and safety, hygiene, palliative care, cognition & mental health, care planning and more.
Credentials: Graduates will receive PSW certification, CPR & First Aid certification, the Gentle Persuasive Approach® certificate in dementia care, plus support in connecting with employers and developing their career skills.
Entry requirements include: age 18+, English literacy (CLB6), proof of citizenship/immigration status, immunization record, physician’s clearance and a Vulnerable Sector Check by December 19.
Tuition: Currently covered by a special grant from the Ontario Ministry of Health – learners pay a refundable deposit of $200 plus purchase of shoes and scrubs.
Why now?
With an estimated 24,000 new PSWs needed in Ontario by 2026, this program meets a clear and growing community need for skilled healthcare workers. For the UGDSB, this is part of our ongoing effort to support lifelong learning, career pathways and community partnerships that benefit both learners and the region.
How do I apply?
Attend an information session (dates below) and complete an entrance exam. You MUST attend a session and complete the entrance exam to be eligible for the program. Sign up here: PSW Information Session Registration Form.
If you have attended an information session and completed the entrance exam a group of learners will be invited to an in-person interview. After the interview and ‘diagnostic’ test, offers of acceptance will be sent to approximately 25 potential candidates. A wait list will be maintained.
All applicants will be required to submit the following documents by December 19th at 4:00 pm: a clear Vulnerable Sector Check, physician’s clearance for physical and mental wellness, up-to-date immunization record. Failure to submit these documents will mean that their position in the program will be offered to the next candidate. There are no exceptions to this requirement.
Prospective learners must attend an information session and complete an entrance exam to be eligible. Sessions are scheduled for:
Tuesday November 4th - 5:00 pm at College Heights Cafetorium, 371 College Ave. West
Thursday November 6th - 5:00 pm at College Heights Cafetorium, 371 College Ave. West
Saturday November 8th - 9:00 am College Heights Library, 371 College Ave. West
“We are excited to offer this new PSW program in our continuing education division,” said Melissa McDowall, Principal of Continuing Education at UGDSB. “This is a wonderful opportunity for adults seeking a career in healthcare, and for us as a board to contribute to the vital workforce our community needs.”