Care Aide Learner Program

Are you looking for meaningful work that makes a difference in your community? The Care Aide Learner role is a great way to start a career in health care close to home.

Get paid to learn a career that matters. You’ll work, study and grow at the same time, with mentors in your corner from day one. By the end of the year, you’ll be ready to step into your new role as a Health Care Aide.

As a Care Aide Learner, you work alongside experienced health care staff and help residents with daily care and activities. You build skills and confidence while getting to know the people you support. Most importantly, you make a real difference in the lives of local residents and their families.

You don’t need health care experience to apply. This role is open to people from all backgrounds who want to learn and help others. Whether you’re looking for your first job, changing careers, returning to work or hoping to build a career close to home, we want to hear from you.

How the program works

The program combines one year of paid work and education with a one-year commitment to work with Covenant Health after you graduate.

1 year program: learn while you work

• Start with three weeks of orientation to the role, followed by two weeks of buddy shifts with an experienced team member
• Work part-time (0.4 FTE, about 2 days a week) for one year
• Earn $22.04 an hour plus benefits in a union position
• Complete the NorQuest Health Care Aide Workplace program, with your education paid for
• Get support from tutors and mentors as you practice your skills on the job
• Write a final exam to get your license with the College of LPNs and HCAs of Alberta

After you graduate

• Continue working with Covenant Health for at least one year as a Health Care Aide

Who can apply?

To apply for a Care Aide Learner opportunity, you must:

• Meet the entry requirements for the NorQuest Health Care Aide Workplace program, including one of the following:  
  • 60% in English 20-2
  • 55% in English 30-2
  • Completion of an English language and academic skills assessment
• Commit to finishing the one-year program and working with Covenant Health for one year after you graduate
• You must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident

You’ll do well in this role if you:

• Communicate clearly and care about the people you support
• Work well on your own and as part of a team
• Solve problems and handle conflict respectfully
• Can study independently and apply what you learn at work

How to get started

1. Explore the role. Book a job shadow with a Health Care Aide to see what the work is like. If you already work with Covenant Health, talk to your leader about whether this is the right next step for you.
2. Check the education requirements. Review the NorQuest program requirements to make sure you meet the education and language criteria.
3. Watch for postings. Care Aide Learner opportunities are posted on our careers page.
4. Apply and interview. If you’re successful, you’ll then apply to the NorQuest Health Care Aide Workplace program.