Regional long-term care program proving successful for students
Posted Sep 24, 2026 04:10:39 PM.
The Region of Waterloo says a long-term care program is proving successful for students training to be personal support workers.
The Living Classroom program started in 2025 and students from St. Louis Adult Learning and Continuing Education have been able to get hands-on education and real-life experience at Sunnyside Home in Kitchener.
A dedicated portable classroom was delivered late last year to support the program and participating students are paired with Sunnyside residents.
In a recent survey, students reported that bonding with the residents was the best part of their learning experience, and according to the Region, students are also reporting high levels of program satisfaction.
“Students learn in real time from teachers, residents, and staff,” said Julie Wheeler, Director of Seniors’ Services and Sunnyside Home, in a release. “They learn hands on how to best use the equipment, and residents guide them on how to positively impact their day and give care in the best way.”
The program involves several partners and funders like the Waterloo Catholic District School Board, the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging, and the Government of Ontario, and was established to improve long-term care and address the PSW shortage.
More health-related news
