Program Overview
Length: 21 Weeks
Flexible Schedule: Designed to Support Working Adults
Format: Classroom Learning, Skills Labs & Clinical Placement
Location: Miramichi, New Brunswick
Program Recognition: Skills Trades NB has determined that our program aligns with the training standard set of the foundational PSW Program
Courses Taught
Anatomy & Physiology / Pathophysiology Introduces the structure and function of the human body, with emphasis on common conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases, and their impact on daily living.
Role & Responsibilities of the Personal Support Worker Explores the PSW’s role within the healthcare team, including scope of practice, professionalism, ethics, and the delivery of person-centered care.
Fundamental Care Procedures- Lab and Practical Covers foundational hands-on skills, including hygiene, grooming, bed-making, toileting, transfers, and infection prevention and control.
Gerontology & Geriatric Care Addresses aging-related care, including communication strategies, elder abuse prevention, ethical considerations, fall risk reduction, and providing dignified end-of-life care.
Mental Health & Psychiatry Disorders Provides an understanding of common mental health conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, with strategies to reduce anxiety and respond to behavioral changes.
Caring Across the Lifespan Explores human growth and development from birth to older adulthood, including the impact of disorders and disabilities and strategies to support individuals and their families.
Community & Home Care Management & Nutrition Introduces principles of home and community care, including meal planning, therapeutic diets, food safety, feeding assistance, and supporting clients with dietary needs.
Pharmacology and Assisting with Medications Focuses on safe assistance with prescribed medications under appropriate supervision, including medication types, safety protocols, documentation, and reporting.
Clinical / Practicum Placement Provides supervised, hands-on experience in long-term care, special care homes, and community settings. Students apply classroom knowledge in real-world environments, focusing on safe care delivery, ADLs, observation and documentation, communication, and promoting client dignity and independence.
Additional Certificates
Back in Form Lift & Transfer Certification (WorkSafeNB) Provides training in safe lifting, positioning, and transfer techniques to prevent injury and meet WorkSafeNB standards.
Food Handler Certification (Canadian Standard) A nationally recognized program that prepares students to safely handle and prepare food in accordance with Canadian health regulations.
Gentle Persuasive Approaches® (GPA) Builds skills and confidence in responding to responsive behaviors associated with dementia using a person-centered approach. Delivered as a structured, multi-module training program.
Admission Requirements
Must Have:
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High School Diploma or Equivalent
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Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector
International Students: Valid Immigration Status
Must Be Willing to Obtain:
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Standard First Aid with AED/CPR - Level C
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Medical Clearance