Nursing Department

Huron Heights Secondary School has offered nursing programs for over 30 years. Our nursing department has a wonderful reputation for fostering excellence in health care. At this time HHSS offers a 1 year full time Health Care Studies program which allows the student an entrance to the health care field in Ontario. This school to work program is designed to provide theory and practice of skills required to care for individuals in a variety of settings including hospitals.

Students will be able to complete credits toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, receiving eight credits in two semesters. Successful completion of all eight credits will allow the student to meet the requirements of the Personal Support Worker (PSW) Certificate, a Medical Terminology Certificate (optional) and a Patient-Centered Care Certificate. The program includes enhanced material in communications, documentation, mental health, gerontology, care of children, diabetes, managing strokes, infection control, care in acute care settings and professionalism. In addition, students will complete their CPR and First Aid training. In partnership with many community agencies the students gain a wide variety of work experiences within the program.

Upon graduation the student will be able to work as a PSW in nursing homes, in the community and in some hospitals, group homes etc. As well they might pursue careers as a unit secretary, an educational assistant and in Doctor’s offices and clinics.

The program may also allow others to experience the health care field and help them with decisions about a career in a variety of health professions.

Entry into the program includes an interview. Students are required to bring a resume, high school transcript and a work/personal reference as well as a picture of themselves. Students will also write a short English proficiency test at this time.

Admission criteria for Health Care Studies includes:

• Age 19 or older or has completed their Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent.
• If the applicant is not 19 or older and does not possess an OSSD, he/she must be able to demonstrate an aptitude for health care (e.g. work in a health care field, have completed a co-operative education placement in health care, science, etc.) and submit a reference from an employer or Co-operative Education teacher indicating maturity, problem-solving and judgment skills.
• Demonstrated skills in communication and comprehension sufficient to meet the demands of the program.
• Physical health to complete the practical components.

To obtain more information regarding the Health Care Studies Program call (905)895-2384 ext 6636 or to arrange an interview call (905)895-2384 ext.223

last updated: 2009-10-20