Accelerated Training for Personal Support Workers to Boost College

By Bob Peters, choosecornwall.ca– A new accelerated training program for personal support workers (PSWs)  is expected to produce a huge increase in enrollment at St. Lawrence College.

The Ontario government announced funding today for an accelerated program that will cover students’ tuition and other expenses. The accelerated program starts April 5 and allows participants to graduate with full credentials within six months.

“This is a major step to help fill the demand for personal support workers in our community,” said Glenn Vollebregt, President and CEO, St. Lawrence College. “It’s an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in a new career in this field.”

The program will begin accepting applications in early March. The added enrolment is expected to result in over 8,000 PSW graduates province-wide by this fall.

The accelerated program allows students to fulfil the program requirements more quickly by increasing the number of study hours per week.

It will use a hybrid model that combines online learning with in-person practical experience. Students in the program will complete courses online and participate in laboratory classes available at the colleges and in care settings.

Students in the accelerated program will be available to volunteer at long-term care homes and other settings early in the program and available for paid work placements after three months.

Graduates will enter the workforce at the end of six months. The standard PSW programs at colleges take eight months to complete.

St. Lawrence College offers the PSW program at its Cornwall campus.

“Our graduates provide essential care to many of our most vulnerable citizens,”  said Mr. Vollebregt. “We were pleased to collaborate with the province to create this new opportunity for students.”

About the Cornwall Campus

The Cornwall Campus sits on a picturesque 23 acre site on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. The campus offers 34 different programs of study ranging from business courses to trades to nursing and more. The Campus has recently been renovated, resulting in a brand new library, new health simulation labs, state-of-the-art group study rooms and renovated student common areas to help create a warm and inspiring educational experience. The campus has onsite residences, athletic facility and cafeteria, and offers immediate access to the Cornwall’s Waterfront Trail which connects the College with the rest of the city.

About St. Lawrence College

St. Lawrence College is an integral part of the economic life and social fabric of Eastern Ontario, with campuses in Kingston, Brockville, and Cornwall. St. Lawrence College consistently ranks as one of Ontario’s leading community colleges, preparing students for the global economy with relevant, practical, and experiential learning opportunities. Offering over 100 full-time programs, St. Lawrence College is a close-knit community of 10,000 full-time students, and more than 100,000 alumni.

You can find out more information on the St. Lawrence College website: