DURHAM COLLEGE
DC Partners with Community Care Durham to Deliver Workplace Training for PSWs

Personal Support Workers (PSWs) at Community Care Durham (CCD) recently gained essential workplace skills thanks to a successful partnership with Durham College (DC) Academic Upgrading. Over seven weeks, PSWs participated in a specialized training program focused on enhancing digital literacy and document use critical skills that support their daily work and professional growth.

This initiative marks a milestone as DC's Academic Upgrading's first Workplace Training program delivered directly to professionals serving the local community. The program was made possible with support from the Literacy Network of Durham Region.

"Our collaboration with Community Care Durham has been an incredible milestone for Academic Upgrading at DC," said Meagan Quesnelle, Manager School College Work Initiative & Academic Upgrading at DC. "Seeing the enthusiasm and growth of the PSWs as they developed their skills was truly inspiring. This partnership demonstrates the power of education to support professionals making a difference in our community, and we're excited to continue building on this success."

The impact of the training was clear, with participants strengthening key skills that directly benefit their work. "Participants improved their email communication and documentation skills, which are critical for their roles," said Ayaan Mohamed, Program Manager for Assisted Living Services, Respite, and Supportive Housing at CCD.

"We really saw the value of the training and the excitement staff had for it. It created a snowball effect of learning and engagement," Mohamed added.

Building on this success, DC's Academic Upgrading will expand its partnership with CCD in Fall 2025 to offer additional training opportunities for both PSWs and PSW Care Coordinators.

For those looking to develop essential workplace skills or pursue a rewarding career in health care, Durham College offers a range of programs, including:

• Academic Upgrading for foundational skills development.
• Essential Skills Training for job readiness.
• Personal Support Worker (PSW) Program for those passionate about health care careers.