With Wave 3 funding applications about to open, let’s explore a few recent Living Classroom initiatives. These examples demonstrate that the Living Classroom concept continues to evolve, strengthened by diverse models that meet the unique needs of PSW students and long-term care (LTC) homes. Recent funding has enabled partners to develop innovative approaches tailored to address geographic, linguistic, and logistical challenges. In no particular order, here are some of the various Living Classroom models that have emerged in early 2025.
Model 1: Local Advantage and Employment Guarantee
This Living Classroom model benefits from the close proximity between the LTC home and the education partner, allowing students to transition seamlessly between learning and practical experience. With a cohort of 12 students, expandable to 14, this program offers a structured pathway with a 12-month employment guarantee upon successful completion. A distinct feature of this model is that while awaiting required sector checks and immunizations, guest speakers from the LTC home engage with students in their classroom. Most courses are delivered at the LTC home, with one online course and another on campus, ensuring flexibility while maintaining a hands-on approach.
Model 2: Rural Francophone Education with Remote Delivery
This approach addresses the need for French-speaking caregivers and supports rural education delivery through an innovative blend of online and hands-on training. This model is uniquely designed to improve support for Francophone residents in LTC. With a maximum of five students per cohort, this program uses a preceptor model where students receive online instruction while engaging with integrated learning activities early on, in addition to clinical and lab work within LTC homes.
Model 3: Reviving and Strengthening Partnerships
With 16 students, the LTC home and education partner deliver the entire PSW program within the LTC home, fostering an immersive experience. This model was revived after a pandemic-induced pause, highlighting the resilience of Living Classroom partnerships. It demonstrates that when one collaboration pauses, funding and facilitation can help establish a new alliance. The thorough alignment process in Wave 1 ensured a well-planned concept, paving the way for long-term success.
Model 4: Scaling Up with Multiple Partners
A large LTC home has taken an ambitious approach by running two Living Classroom programs simultaneously—one from an original partnership and another using new funding with a separate partner. With 23 students in the cohort, this model exemplifies creative problem-solving to expand capacity. The home’s innovative thinking has led to further discussions about launching additional programs in other LTC settings. This model maximizes available resources by integrating shared classroom space within LTC and combining in-class theory with practical training.
Model 5: Hybrid Learning with Local LTC Experience
Designed to serve students in various small communities, this hybrid Living Classroom model blends online theory with weekly hands-on learning in LTC homes. With 40 students participating, the program distributes students among various local LTC homes for clinical teaching, ensuring they gain experience in their communities. Dedicated learning spaces in each home foster a sense of belonging while allowing flexible learning pathways that accommodate diverse geographic needs.
Model 6: Partner-Matching and Growth Potential
Initially funded in Wave 1 for feasibility studies, this model showcases the impact of strategic partnerships. Without an initial LTC partner, the Living Classroom team facilitated a connection, leading to a thriving hybrid program. Theory is delivered online, while wrap-around funding supports student transportation to a designated LTC home for practical training. With 19 students currently enrolled and 70 applicants for the next cohort, this model underscores the demand for flexible and accessible PSW education.
Creating the Best Living Classroom Model for Your Unique Circumstances
These diverse Living Classroom models demonstrate how adaptability and collaboration can address the unique needs of students and LTC homes. Whether through geographic proximity or challenge, hybrid learning, language, or partner-matching, each approach ensures that students are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to those they will support in LTC. The continued evolution of the Living Classroom initiative highlights its crucial role in shaping the future of PSW education to build a resilient, well-trained workforce.
How might your partnership contribute innovation to the Living Classroom program?