On a cold February day, the air filled with excitement and possibility as students gathered at Holy Redeemer Church. It was a day celebrating the remarkable journey of St. Albert Learning Centre’s first cohort of 2023/24 Personal Service Worker (PSW) graduates.
Principal Christina Raso says, “In that moment, as we looked upon our graduates, we couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride. A class of incredible individuals stood before us; their hearts filled with the promise of making a difference.”
As the ceremony unfolded, two voices filled the church with words of inspiration and hope. First, graduate and valedictorian Audrey, with her gentle demeanour and eloquent words, spoke of the transformative power of compassion and holistic care.
“It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today, representing this dynamic group who have equipped themselves with vast knowledge and embraced a holistic approach in considering one's health. I can assure you that this group seated before you here today are definitely the difference to the world of personal support workers.”
Then came fellow graduate and valedictorian Dianna, her passion igniting a fire withing everyone in the room. "Learning is a powerful tool, and we are the backbone of the healthcare system, the eyes, and the ears for those above us. We are team players, problem solvers, compassionate, trustworthy, and empathetic, among other qualities.”
The celebrations will continue June 26 as the second cohort of Personal Support Worker (PSW) graduate. Among them shines a source of inspiration named Faith.
Faith's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Despite facing numerous hurdles, she stood tall with relentless determination. Through perseverance and resilience, she navigated every challenge that came her way. Now, on the verge of graduation, Faith's story epitomizes triumph.
Not only is Faith obtaining her Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), but she's also achieving her PSW certificate. Her journey is a testament to the incredible power of resilience and the transformative impact of education.
“We owe immense gratitude to our community partners—St. Joseph’s Villa, St. Gabriel’s Villa, Maison McCullough Hospice, Finlandia, Centre for the Deaf and Blind, ICAN Sudbury, and the Sudbury Catholic District School—who have been pillars of support. Their dedication and guidance have nurtured our students, empowering them to thrive and succeed in our program,” says Raso.
Your Heartwarming Journey Begins Now
Are you ready to embark on your own path of healing and compassion? Applications for the September 2024 cohort are now being accepted! A January 2025 cohort is also offered, and registration will open in October.
The six-month PSW program is fully funded by the Ministry of Long-Term Care, with the $1,800 tuition fee waived for participants (some restrictions apply). Beyond this incredible benefit, numerous enticing incentives await PSW students and graduates, including the opportunity for paid placements. That's right! Not only is the six-month PSW program completely tuition-free, but you also get paid to learn! With potential earnings of up to $5,400, these paid placements offer a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable skills while earning an income.
Join St. Albert Learning Centre for one of the upcoming mandatory PSW information sessions on May 8, May 22, June 5 and June 18 at 10 a.m. to learn more!
For more information, visit the St. Albert Learning Centre Facebook page.
Success for each, a place for all.