In September 2023, the Prescott and Russell Residence, a long-term care home in Hawkesbury, Ontario, established its new PSW Living Classroom in partnership with the Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO)’s École des adultes le Carrefour. The program was launched after CEPEO submitted a project proposal to the Prescott and Russell Residence Board of Directors in May 2023, which was accepted in June 2023. In 2024-2025, there were 144 residents in the home and 26 learners in the program.
A fully integrated learning model
The program runs full-time within the home, from September to June, Monday to Friday, generally from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. However, the schedule varies depending on the learning module; for example, learners in the nutrition module may start earlier in the day to observe breakfast service, or stay later to participate in hands-on labs.
To fully immerse themselves in their program, learners observe, practice and integrate themselves into the daily lives of residents and staff. The program has a classroom and lab within the home, so learners have access to equipment such as a lift, wheelchairs and a specialized bathtub to practice their skills. Real-world lessons include case studies based on real situations with real patients, as well as simulations and modeling.
Yvette, the Living Classroom instructor, regularly organizes activities with the home’s staff to facilitate connection between learners and staff. This allows for better understanding of the dynamics of the Living Classroom and the importance of teamwork within the home.
Daily personal interaction
Learning is not limited to technical skills and how to provide care. Yvette works to incorporate her learners into all aspects of the home, including social activities, in order to develop interpersonal relationships with the residents. As a result, residents are more accepting of the care provided by the learners. This also allows learners to be in regular contact with the residents’ families, and helps families understand why the learners are there. This regular human contact increases learners’ confidence when it comes to providing care, and fosters the development of interpersonal skills essential to the PSW profession.
A notable example is the “Day Around the World” organized by Yvette. Learners from various countries including Haiti, Tunisia and France presented their cultures to the residents, families and staff. The room was packed and the reception was enthusiastic; some residents even asked for the event to be repeated. One group ended the presentation with a traditional dance, creating a shared moment of intercultural connection. This activity led to a big change in the acceptance of learners by staff, who are now more willing to help them with their learning.
Celebrating success
The program has seen many successes. Three experienced PSWs, one on each floor, were given permission to accompany the learners during the supervised internship. Their constant presence ensured quality supervision, improved learning outcomes and more personalized attention to learners.
Additionally, when the home is experiencing a staff shortage, the home’s working PSWs occasionally ask Yvette if any learners are free to lend a hand with certain tasks, such as making beds or helping out at mealtimes. This shows the learners’ willingness and eagerness to engage with the residents as much as possible, as well as their ability to adapt to the needs of the program and the home.
Another success is learners doing their community work placements within the home (e.g., housekeeping, laundry, activities). This fosters even more interaction with residents, families and staff beyond direct care, and has helped build trust and a broader understanding of teamwork.
As proof of the program’s success, learners are often hired directly by the Prescott and Russell Residence as PSWs. What’s more, some learners earn their Ontario high school diploma (OSSD) at the same time as their PSW certification—a double personal and professional achievement celebrated at the end of the program.
“Doing this training has meant so much more than just education: it opened the door to integrated learning, enhancing my skills, and rediscovering my ability to serve others with dignity, respect and humanity. I feel better equipped to make a positive contribution to the well-being of people who lack independence and to the quality of care services in our community.
I’m committed to putting everything I’ve learned into practice, continuing my professional development and being an ambassador for the values shared throughout this wonderful journey.”
–Rener Aladin, Living Classroom graduate from École des adultes Le Carrefour and Prescott and Russell Residence
Keys to a successful partnership
Regular meetings between CEPEO and Prescott and Russell Residence management ensure smooth communication. Clearly defined roles (e.g. who provides the equipment, access to resources, etc.) are essential. The investment made by the home for items such as computers, simulation equipment as well as a dedicated classroom contributes directly to the quality of training.
Ongoing communication between learners, supervisors, the teacher and management is also essential, as is individuals’ flexibility and ability to adapt throughout the program and on a daily basis.
Having a program champion teacher like Yvette is also an important key to success.
Ensuring long-term viability
The program has a high retention rate, and the rigorous selection of applicants helps to ensure its long-term success. In 2024, 540 applications were received for just 30 program spaces. The in-depth selection process focuses on the individual beyond just skillset, with an emphasis on the learner’s values, vocation and ability to collaborate. This holistic process ensures that the program’s future PSWs are invested in their training, are competent, and are able to stay in their career long-term.
Other contributions to recruitment success include maintaining community partnerships, such as with the local employment centre, and paid placements.
Challenges and next steps
The success of the program relies heavily on the commitment and enthusiasm of its current instructor. However, Yvette is planning to retire next year. The challenge therefore is to find and train an experienced and passionate instructor, preferably while Yvette is still her role, to ensure a smooth transition.
Work is also underway to enlarge the classroom and improve internet connectivity. New computers have been installed to facilitate digital learning and reduce paper use.
Lessons learned
- Rigorous selection process: Choosing candidates who are motivated to work in the field of compassionate care contributes to the program’s overall success.
- Contact with residents: Putting learners in contact with residents early on in the program helps them affirm their interest in the profession. Additionally, the instructor is able to identify areas for encouragement and improvement more quickly.
- Gradual practical training: Learners acquire concrete skills (e.g. feeding) right from the start, which makes it easier for them to adapt to the real-life environment of a LTC home and helps reduce anxiety. Residents also more readily accept care from learners.
- Communication and collaboration: It’s essential to establish clear and consistent communication between all partners from the outset so that everyone is well aligned with the program’s objectives.
- Flexibility and adaptability: Flexibility on a day-to-day basis enables all parties to respond to needs and ensures a positive experience for everyone involved in the program.
Advice for new Living Classrooms
- Preparation: It’s essential to prepare and plan ahead to ensure that all partners understand and support the initiative.
- Relationships between instructor and staff: It’s important for the instructor to build trusting relationships with the staff and to establish themselves as an advocate for the learners.
- Knowledge exchange: Sharing ideas with management in the spirit of collaboration is a key to success, and voicing observations with the aim of improving the experience for all stakeholders.
