Provincial release:

The first graduates of the province’s new continuing care assistant (CCA) training program have joined Nova Scotia’s healthcare workforce.

Seventeen students recently completed the six-month program, launched earlier this year with the goal of getting more CCAs delivering quality care sooner. The average length of CCA training has been eight months.

“These new CCAs are a welcome addition to our workforce,” said Barbara Adams, Minister of Seniors and Long-Term Care. “The skills they’ve acquired from this new program have set them up to deliver top-notch care and better meet the needs of older Nova Scotians. By placing greater focus on core competencies, we’re able to get CCAs working sooner, and that means getting seniors access to the care they need faster.”

The pilot training program includes updated curriculum that reflects the complex care needs of older Nova Scotians. The curriculum ensures a continued focus on core training components such as resident safety, personal care and social and mental well-being.

A second class began the program in Halifax on October 1. Information from the pilot will determine if CCA training needs any further changes before the new program becomes standard across the province next year.

More information about the pilot program is available at: https://shannex.com/cca-program/The Province is investing about $3.6 million in the pilot program. This includes costs associated with curriculum development, revised learning standards, adjustments for the CCA exam, student supports and administration.

“I am so grateful to the Province for investing in my future and for making this pilot program a reality. The curriculum was designed to ensure that I had the knowledge and practical skills needed to excel as a CCA. I feel fully prepared to enter this field and to provide the highest level of support and compassion to the people I get to care for.” 
— Amie Jaiteh, student, continuing care assistant pilot training program

“I learned so much more than I thought I would. The instructors were incredible and so supportive. I truly feel like continuing care is my calling. Being a CCA allows me to build authentic relationships and trust with the people I care for. I feel very confident and excited to take this next step.” 
— Arlene Croft, student, continuing care assistant pilot training program 

“I’m so thankful for the tremendous work of staff to see this partnership with government and a private long-term care provider advance to a second pilot program this fall. The on-site delivery model and partnership with Shannex have shown to be a great combination to help meet the needs of this vital field sooner. The students in the first program are proof of its success and I wish this new cohort of learners all the best.” 
— Don Bureaux, President, Nova Scotia Community College

“Shannex is focused on solutions that improve the quality of service and care we deliver. Along with our partners, we have been able to fill vacancies for continuing care assistants today and support the development of a new and relevant curriculum that will enhance the overall healthcare system.” 
— Vanessa White, Vice-President, People and Culture, Shannex

Quick Facts:
– the CCA training program is reviewed every five years and was last reviewed in 2020
– the pilot CCA training program is a partnership with the Employment Nova Scotia division of the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration, Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) and Shannex
– students are accepted into the pilot program based on NSCC’s current CCA program admission requirements
– Shannex provides classroom and lab space, half of students’ wages and a guaranteed job for two years
– students in the pilot receive free tuition and books and a wage supplement from the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration, along with support for transportation, child care, technology, tutoring and moving costs

Additional Resources:
News release –Pilot Program to Educate More CCAs, More Quickly: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/02/15/pilot-program-educate-more-ccas-more-quickly
Action for Health, the government’s plan to improve healthcare: https://novascotia.ca/actionforhealth/