EMSB to begin training future PABs as part of accelerated program

The English Montreal School Board is proud to be doing its part to assist in the training of front-line workers during this COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

Beginning on Monday, June 15, the Shadd Health and Business Centre (www.shadd.com) in NDG will welcome the first group of 132 students for a special accelerated Institutional and Home Care Assistance Program, entitled Support for Assistive Care in Long-Term Care Centres, The students will be able to work as orderlies, also known as PABs (préposé aux bénéficiaires) by September 15. A second cohort of students is expected to start by July 6. Shadd is opening six groups in total, the maximum its facility can accommodate: three during the day and three in the evening.

This accelerated program, which generally takes about nine months to complete, was mandated by the Quebec government in order to get at least 10,000 new PABs into long-term care facilities for seniors, which have been hit especially hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The government received over 85,000 applications to enroll in this accelerated program. Last week the EMSB and the local CIUSSS worked together to select the first group of students.

In the last three years, Shadd has had a job placement rate of 95 percent. Its students have chosen fulfilling careers assisting clients or patients as a PAB, nurse’s aide or orderly in hospitals, CLSCs, extended care facilities, rehabilitation hospitals and private care and health agencies throughout the province.

Shadd Health and Business Centre is located at 1000 Old Orchard Avenue (between Upper Lachine Road and St. Jacques Street).