Health Care Assistant

What You Will Learn:

Students in the Health Care Assistant program learn to provide person‑centred care under the direction and supervision of regulated health professionals, supporting the physical, psychological, cognitive, social, and spiritual well‑being of clients and their families. Through this training, students develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to work as care providers across all levels of continuing care, including home support, adult day programs, assisted living, private care, complex care, and acute care settings. The program focuses on preparing students to assist older adults by teaching essential personal‑care techniques, professional communication, ethical practice, and effective teamwork. By the end of the program, students gain key abilities in delivering person‑centred care, performing a wide range of personal assistance tasks, and working collaboratively within a healthcare team.

What You Will Earn:

• • 24 grade 12 credits towards graduation (6 courses)
  • Health Care Assistant Certificate (upon successful completion of program)

What You Can Expect:

Students attend OC Salmon Arm or Vernon, or TRU Kamloops campus full time. The program involves a blend of online theory, hands-on labs, and supervised clinical practicums in healthcare settings. Graduates are prepared to work in settings like home support, assisted living, group homes, complex care, special care units, other home and community care settings, and acute care.

Does This Sound Like You?

• You are compassionate and empathetic, showing care and understanding toward others.
• You are patient, giving people the time and support they need.
• You communicate clearly, helping others understand what you mean.
• You are reliable, showing up, following through, and being someone others can count on.
• You stay organized, keeping track of tasks and responsibilities.
• You pay attention to details, noticing important changes in someone’s condition or situation.

Help Yourself Succeed By...

• Connecting with your Career Coordinator at school.
• Watching for deadlines - they are critical!
• Maintaining good attendance and keeping up with school work - career programs require interviews!
• Participating in Career related activities like going on a tour (virtual or in person) or attending an info session.
• Enrolling in Work Experience at a related job site.
• Making and monitoring an appropriate personal email. (ex: do not use phat_cat69@gmail.com)
• Ensuring your personal information is up to date (i.e email, resume, SIN, etc).