At Dunsmuir College, we prepare students for successful careers through practical education, industry-focused programs, and real-world learning opportunities.

Home Support Worker

Home Support Worker (HSW) Certificate Program

Build practical caregiving skills and prepare for entry-level support roles in healthcare, community care, and home assistance environments. This career-focused certificate program provides foundational training in client care, communication, safety practices, and professional caregiving responsibilities.

Program Overview

The Home Support Worker (HSW) Certificate Program at Dunsmuir College is designed for individuals seeking foundational training in personal care and community support services. Students develop practical caregiving skills while learning how to support individuals in home environments, community settings, and long-term care facilities.

The program emphasizes safe caregiving practices, effective communication, personal support techniques, and professional conduct. Through industry-relevant coursework, students gain the confidence needed to assist clients with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Whether beginning a new career path or expanding existing caregiving skills, students receive practical knowledge that can be applied across a variety of support service environments.

Program Purpose

The program prepares students to effectively support certified Early Childhood Educators by developing knowledge and skills related to:

  • Child health, safety, and well-being
  • Nutrition and healthy learning environments
  • Daily routines and classroom support
  • Observation and documentation practices
  • Child development foundations
  • Inclusive and respectful learning environments
  • Professional conduct and ethical responsibilities
  • Supporting children's learning through play-based experiences

Program Information

Home Support Worker (HSW)

School of Education

Credential

Certificate Program

Program Length

8 Weeks

Program Focus

Personal Care, Client Support & Community Assistance

Delivery Method

Combined Learning

Career Preparation

Entry-Level Caregiving Roles

(Mon - Fri : 08.00-17.00)

Social Info :

Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue opportunities in a variety of care and support environments.

  • Home Support Worker
  • Personal Care Aide
  • Elderly Companion
  • Community Care Assistant
  • Live-In Caregiver
  • Live-Out Caregiver
  • Residential Support Assistant
  • Independent Living Support Worker

Together We Learn, Together We Grow

Dunsmuir College is committed to preparing compassionate professionals who make a positive difference in the lives of others. Our student-focused learning environment combines practical training, industry knowledge, and personalized support to help learners succeed in the healthcare and community care sectors.

Curriculum Overview

01

Introduction to caregiving principles, professional responsibilities, client-centered care, and workplace expectations.

02

Health and safety protocols, infection control procedures, emergency response planning, and risk management practices.

03

Communication strategies, interpersonal skills, client interaction, record keeping, and reporting procedures.

04

Understanding mental wellness, emotional support strategies, and working with individuals experiencing cognitive challenges.

05

Providing respectful care in diverse communities while understanding end-of-life support principles and compassionate caregiving approaches.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

  • Deliver personal care assistance using safe and respectful practices.
  • Support individuals with mobility needs while applying proper body mechanics.
  • Communicate effectively with clients, families, and care teams.
  • Follow infection prevention and workplace safety procedures.
  • Demonstrate ethical, legal, and professional caregiving standards.
  • Recognize physical, emotional, and social support needs of clients.
  • Maintain accurate client records and documentation.
  • Promote dignity, independence, and quality of life for those receiving care.

Academic Schedule

Program start dates are available throughout the year. Contact the Admissions Team for upcoming intakes and enrollment deadlines.

Why Study Here

Why Choose Dunsmuir College?

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Industry-Relevant Training

Learn practical caregiving skills aligned with current community and healthcare support needs.

Student-Focused Learning

Benefit from a supportive educational environment with personalized guidance.

Career Preparation

Develop confidence and workplace-ready skills valued by employers.

Professional Development

Build communication, documentation, and client care competencies.

Flexible Learning Environment

Study through a learning model designed to accommodate diverse student needs.

Supportive Community

Join a college that prioritizes student success, inclusion, and professional growth.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following recognized assessments:

  • IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 5.5
  • CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment): Overall score of 40 or higher
  • Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum overall score of 95
  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum overall score of 46
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic): Minimum overall score of 56, with no individual skill score below 50

Applicants who have completed previous education in English may be eligible to satisfy language requirements through alternative pathways, subject to Dunsmuir College admission policies and assessment.

Note: English language requirements are subject to change in accordance with institutional policies and applicable regulatory standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

The program is designed to be completed in approximately 8 weeks.
Graduates may seek opportunities as Home Support Workers, Personal Care Aides, Companion Caregivers, and other community support roles.
Yes. Students learn personal care techniques, communication skills, safety procedures, and client support practices.
The program is delivered through a combined learning model.
Yes. The curriculum is designed for individuals entering the caregiving field and those seeking foundational support work training.