Foot Care Education Courses
New to Foot Care?
The Basic and Advanced Foot Care Programs have been specifically developed to educate nurses (RN/RPN) and PSWs who are new to foot care.
Not sure if this course is right for you?
Start Here: Follow our introductory guide to learn about course requirements and content.
Have Questions? Send us an email and we’ll help you determine which program best fits your learning needs and career goals.
Your journey to becoming confident in foot care starts here!
RPN/RN/NP Basic/Advanced Foot Care Course
Basic and Advanced Foot Care Course – Nurses (RPN, RN, NP)
Nurses who enroll in this course will develop the expertise necessary to provide safe, competent, and individualized foot care for clients with diverse needs. Through comprehensive instruction, participants will learn to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate foot care within their professional scope, ensuring effective, evidence-based treatment.
Program Highlights
Critical Thinking & Evidence-Based Practice:
Participants analyze real-world foot care scenarios to make informed, evidence-based decisions. Research utilization is emphasized to integrate current best practices into daily nursing care.Health Education & Adult Learning Principles:
Nurses are trained to apply teaching-learning strategies to meet clients’ learning needs effectively.Clinical Knowledge & Skills:
Identify causes, prevention strategies, and treatments for common foot and nail disorders
Provide specialized care for high-risk clients, such as individuals with diabetes
Use appropriate tools and techniques, including N95 masks, monofilaments, digital thermometers, Dopplers
Understand sterilization procedures to maintain a hygienic practice environment
Learn to use Dopplers to assess peripheral arterial disease
Practical Application & Coaching:
After the in-class session, students receive coaching support to guide the establishment of their foot care practice. Opportunities include observation in long-term care, clinics, and home care settings.- Note: Hands-on practice is not included in this course due to liability and risk. Nurses seeking practical, supervised experience are encouraged to enroll in the mentorship course.
Outcomes
Upon completion, participants will be able to:
Provide safe and competent foot care tailored to individual client needs
Identify, prevent, and manage common foot and nail disorders
Utilize specialized assessment tools and techniques for high-risk populations
Apply evidence-based practice and teaching strategies in client care
Maintain a safe and hygienic clinical environment
Program Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements before enrollment:
Nursing Registration:
Provide proof of a current, non-restricted nursing registration license as a Registered Nurse (RN) or Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO).
All nurses must be in good standing with the CNO and have no restrictions to practice.
Professional Liability Insurance:
Provide proof of liability insurance from your nursing association.
Technology Requirements:
Access to a computer or tablet with internet access is mandatory for all courses.
Please review the Niagara School of Foot Care Policies before enrolling.
Liability Insurance
Liability insurance is discussed during the foot care course. If you already have coverage, please provide proof.
Examples of common liability insurance providers:
WeRPN
RNAO: https://rnao.ca/
Canadian Nurses Protective Society (CNPS): https://www.cnps.ca/
The nurse must complete application form and meet all program requirements before purchasing the basic and advanced foot care program.
- Once Application form has been completed, you will be contacted by the program director
- Any questions, please email.
- Please read Store Policies before Purchasing
Nursing Education Initiative (NEI) (Ontario)
Offered through RNAO and WeRPN. Many of our Ontario-based students have received up to $1,500.00 in funds from this initiative. Note that not all students receive the same amount and it is our understanding that funds do get depleted throughout the year. Please visit the NEI page of the RNAO/WeRPN websites to apply and for more information on the funding and application process.
Registered Nurses Foundation of Ontario
RNFOO is a charitable organization that provides financial support for nurses and nursing students in Ontario to help them further their educational studies, conduct nursing and health care research, and support community health initiatives.
https://www.rnfoo.org/awards-a-scholarships/annual-awards.html
Important: Application and Program Requirements
The nurse must complete the application form and meet all program requirements before purchasing the Basic and Advanced Foot Care Program.
Course Dates: Please refer to the application form or submit your application to see available dates.
Program Delivery
The course is delivered in a 9-module format over 10–12 weeks and includes both online and in-class components:
Modules 1–8: 1.5–2 hours per week (online/live webinar)
Module 9: 1 full day in-class session
Assignments/Exercises: Minimum 80% pass required
Online Exams (2): Minimum 80% pass required
In-Class Demonstration Exam: Minimum 80% pass required
Following the in-class session, mentorship or coaching opportunities will be discussed.
(Please review the Niagara School of Foot Care Policies for full details.)
Completion Requirements
Successful course completion requires:
Theoretical Knowledge: Online/webinar modules
Assignments & Exercises: Minimum 80% pass
Case Studies & Exams: Minimum 80% pass
Practical Examination: 1-day in-class session
Full Attendance: Mandatory for all sessions
Course Overview
This introductory course in Basic and Advanced Nursing Foot Care equips nurses with the knowledge and skills to practice as Foot Care Nurses in all clinical settings.
The program aligns with RNAO and Public Health best practice guidelines, covering:
Infection control
Competency in foot care
Evidence-based nursing foot care treatment
Both basic and advanced diabetic foot care are included, delivered by experienced registered nurses.
Course Fee Includes
Sterile instruments (nippers, black files, foot files, scalpels, burs) and podiatry drills
Personal protective equipment (gowns, masks, eye protection, gloves, disinfectant wipes, etc.)
Health teaching supplies (moisturizers, padding, strapping materials)
Assessment tools (tuning fork, monofilaments, infrared thermometer, etc.)
All course materials are accessible until the end of the course date. Download options are disabled for all documents.
Important: Please review the Niagara School of Foot Care Policies before enrolling.
Important: Application and Program Requirements
The nurse must complete the application form and meet all program requirements before purchasing the Basic and Advanced Foot Care Program.
Course Dates: Please refer to the application form or submit your application to see available dates.
RPN/RN/NP Basic & Advanced Foot Care Course – 1:1 Format (4 Days In-Class)
Ensure you complete the application form and meet all program requirements before enrolling. The course delivery includes:
9-Module Program: 4 days in-class
Assignments/Exercises: Minimum 80% pass required
Online Exams (2): Minimum 80% pass required
In-Class Demonstration Exam: Minimum 80% pass required
Completion Requirements
Successful course completion requires:
Theoretical Knowledge: In-class modules
Assignments & Exercises: Minimum 80% pass
Case Studies & Exams: Minimum 80% pass
Practical Examination: 4 days in-class
Full Attendance: Mandatory
Course Overview
This introductory course in Basic and Advanced Nursing Foot Care equips nurses with the skills and knowledge to function as Foot Care Nurses in any clinical setting.
The program adheres to RNAO and Public Health best practice guidelines, including:
Infection control
Competency in foot care
Evidence-based nursing foot care treatment
Both basic and advanced diabetic foot care are covered, taught by experienced registered nurses.
Course Fee Includes
Sterile instruments (nippers, black files, foot files, scalpels, burs) and podiatry drills
Personal protective equipment (gowns, masks, eye protection, gloves, disinfectant wipes, etc.)
Health teaching supplies (moisturizers, padding, strapping materials)
Assessment tools (tuning fork, monofilaments, infrared thermometer, etc.)
All course materials are accessible until the end of the course date. Download options are disabled.
Important: Please review the Niagara School of Foot Care Policies before enrolling.
Advanced Foot Care Nurse Program (RPN/RN)
Admission Requirements
Applicants must provide proof of successful completion of a Basic Foot Care Course from a recognized college or equivalent training program within the past 1–3 years.
Applicants must also:
Submit a completed application form
Provide proof of their Basic Foot Care Certificate or completion acknowledgement
Meet all eligibility criteria prior to acceptance into the program
Admission into the Advanced Foot Care Program is not guaranteed until all documentation has been reviewed and approved.
Course Delivery
Duration: Approximately 5–8 weeks online + 1 day in-class clinical session
Learning Format:
Self-directed online learning
Live weekly webinars (group sessions)
In-class practical training (small group or 1:1 instruction)
Please review the Store Policies and FAQ section prior to purchasing or applying to ensure this program meets your needs.
The cancellation policy is the same as the Basic and Advanced Foot Care programs. Please review the full policy in the Store Policies section.
Program Structure
Modules
Modules 1–3
Exempt (covered in the Basic Foot Care Course)
Modules 4–8
Required online learning modules delivered through weekly live webinars (approximately 1.5–2 hours per session)
Module 9
One final online webinar
One full in-class clinical training day
Following the in-class training day, mentorship opportunities and coaching may be discussed.
Please review the Niagara School of Foot Care policies regarding mentorship eligibility and requirements.
Evaluation Requirements
Students must successfully complete the following:
Assignments and exercises (minimum 80% passing grade)
Case studies
Online final exam (minimum 80% passing grade)
In-class practical demonstration (minimum 80% passing grade)
Full attendance is mandatory for both online sessions and the in-class clinical day.
Program Overview
The Advanced Foot Care Nurse Program provides Registered Nurses (RN) and Registered Practical Nurses (RPN) with the advanced theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills required to practice as a Foot Care Nurse in various healthcare settings.
The curriculum follows best practice guidelines from:
The Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO)
Public Health infection prevention and control standards
The program emphasizes:
Evidence-based nursing practice
Infection prevention and control
Competency in advanced and diabetic foot care
Clinical assessment and treatment skills
Instruction is provided by experienced Registered Nurses with specialized training in Basic and Advanced Nursing Foot Care and Diabetic Foot Care.
Students will complete the theoretical component online and then attend a final in-person clinical training session to demonstrate competency.
Course Fee Includes
The program fee includes use of all clinical equipment and learning supplies during the in-class session:
Clinical Instruments
Sterile nail nippers
Black’s files
Foot files
Scalpels
Burs
Access to various podiatry drills
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Protective gowns
Masks
Eye protection
Gloves
Disinfectant wipes
Clinical Supplies
Moisturizers
Padding materials
Strapping materials
Assessment Tools
Tuning forks
Monofilaments
Infrared thermometers
Important: Application and Program Requirements
The nurse must complete the application form and meet all program requirements before purchasing the Foot Care Program.
Course Dates: Please refer to the application form or submit your application to see available dates.
Self-Directed Foot Care Program
This course includes both basic and advanced foot care and is designed in a self-directed learning format.
Delivery Mode
The program consists of nine modules:
Modules 1–8: Online pre-recorded webinars (1.5–2 hours each)
Module 9: One webinar and a 1-day in-class session
Following the in-class session, mentorship or coaching opportunities will be discussed. (Please review the Niagara School of Foot Care Policies for full details.)
Program Requirements
Assignments/Exercises: Minimum 80% pass rate
Online Exams (2): Minimum 80% pass rate
In-Class Demonstration Exam: Minimum 80% pass rate
To complete the program, students must successfully pass the theoretical online/webinar components, assignments/exercises, case studies, exams, and the practical in-class examination. Full attendance is mandatory for all sessions.
Core Curriculum
This introductory course is designed for RPN/RN/NP nurses and provides the knowledge and skills necessary to function as a Foot Care Nurse in all clinical settings.
The program adheres to RNAO and Public Health best practice guidelines for:
Infection control
Competency in foot care
Evidence-based nursing foot care treatment
Both basic and advanced diabetic foot care are covered, taught by experienced registered nurses.
Program Structure
The program includes both theoretical (online/webinar) and practical (in-class) instruction.
Students complete Modules 1–8 online at their own pace.
Module 9 consists of a final webinar and a 1-day in-class session.
Full attendance and active participation are required for both online and in-class components.
Course Fee Includes
Instruments and lab costs: Sterile instruments, podiatry drills
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gowns, masks, eye protection, gloves, disinfectant wipes
Health Teaching Supplies: Moisturizers, padding, strapping materials
Assessment Tools: Tuning fork, monofilaments, infrared thermometer
All course materials are accessible until the end of the course date. Download options are disabled for all documents.
Important: Please review the Niagara School of Foot Care Policies before enrolling.
Foot Care Course Fees
| Course | Format | Fee (plus HST) |
|---|---|---|
| RPN/RN/NP Basic & Advanced Foot Care Course | 1:1 Format – Online Theory + 1 Day In-Class | $2,000 |
| RPN/RN/NP Basic & Advanced Foot Care Course | 1:1 Format – 4 Days In-Class | $2,300 |
| RPN/RN/NP Advanced Foot Care Course | 1:1 Format | $1,000 |
| RPN/RN/NP Basic & Advanced Foot Care Course | Self-Directed Learning Format | $1,500 |
All fees are subject to HST.
PSW Basic Foot Care Course
Role of Personal Support Workers (PSWs) in Foot Care
Personal Support Workers (PSWs) provide essential services and direct care to individuals in hospitals, long-term care homes, group homes, retirement homes, supportive living environments, and in clients’ homes. They work with clients who have a broad spectrum of conditions and health care needs.
Key points about PSWs and foot care:
Integral Members of the Health Care Team: PSWs/front-line staff are essential to the overall health care team.
Front-Line Personal Care Providers: They are often the first point of contact for personal care, including washing and drying feet, applying socks and shoes, for seniors and clients with disabilities.
Frequent Observers of Foot Health: PSWs often see clients’ or residents’ feet more frequently than any other health care provider.
Collaboration with Health Professionals: PSWs/Foot Care Aides work alongside foot care nurses, family doctors, podiatrists/chiropodists, and other health professionals to maintain mobility and reduce the risk of foot ulcers, which can lead to serious complications such as amputation.
Scope of Practice Limitations: PSWs do not cut or trim the nails of diabetic clients, clients on blood thinners, or clients with certain circulatory disorders.
Training Opportunities: PSWs can take basic foot care training to identify abnormal skin and nail conditions during assessments and report findings to the health care team.
Program Requirements – PSWs / Foot Care Aides
Before enrolling in any Foot Care Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Education
Provide proof of completion of a Personal Support Worker (PSW) course.
Liability Insurance
If you currently have liability insurance, provide proof.
Technology Requirements
Access to a computer or tablet with internet is mandatory for all courses.
Please read the Niagara School of Foot Care Policies before enrolling.
How to Apply
Complete the [Application Form / Application Page] to submit your enrollment request.
Review all program requirements and course dates before applying.
Liability Insurance – PSWs / Foot Care Aides
Personal Support Workers are encouraged to carry liability insurance to protect themselves while providing care.
Recommended Providers:
PSW Insurance Canada
Insurance for Personal Support Workers and Certified Caregivers
Holman Insurance Brokers Ltd.
Address: 3100 Steeles Avenue East, Suite 101, Markham, Ontario L3R 8T3
Phone: 905-886-5630 Ext. 1224 | Fax: 905-886-5622
Website: www.holmanins.com
Note: Niagara School of Foot Care is an Approved/Recognized Program
Financial Assistance / Further Education
For PSWs seeking additional education or financial assistance, the following resources are available:
Personal Support Worker Registry of Ontario
PSW Association of Ontario
Basic Foot Care Course – PSWs / Foot Care Aides
All applicants must submit an application form, meet program requirements, and be eligible to take the Basic Foot Care Course.
Course Dates: Please refer to the application form or submit your application.
Delivery Mode
The program is primarily online/self-directed with virtual practical components:
Modules 1–8: Online pre-recorded webinars (watch at your own pace)
Module 9: Recorded Demo Exam
Assignments/Exercises: Minimum 80% pass required
Online Exam (1): Minimum 80% pass required
Demonstration Exam (Recorded by student & submitted): Minimum 80% pass required
Full attendance, participation, and computer access are mandatory.
Completion Requirements
To successfully complete the program, students must:
Complete all online/webinar modules
Successfully submit assignments/exercises (minimum 80% pass)
Pass case studies and online exam (minimum 80% pass)
Submit a practical demo exam video for evaluation
Core Curriculum – PSWs
Personal Support Workers (PSWs) are an integral part of the health care team. Key points:
Front-line caregivers, first contact for personal care of seniors and clients with disabilities
Scope limitation: Do not cut or trim nails for diabetic clients, clients on blood thinners, or clients with certain circulatory disorders
Training focuses on identifying abnormal skin and nail conditions during assessment
Course theory covers basic foot care, taught by registered nurses experienced in Basic and Advanced Nursing Foot Care and Diabetic Foot Care
The course emphasizes foot assessment and prevention of complications, combining online theory with a practical virtual demo exam on a client volunteer.
Course Fee Includes
Materials will be mailed to students once the course is paid for and near the final module:
Instruments & Lab Costs: Sterile single-use instruments (nippers, black files, foot files)
PPE: Gowns, masks, gloves, disinfectant wipes
Health Teaching Supplies: Moisturizers
Assessment Tools: Monofilaments
Please read the Niagara School of Foot Care Policies before enrolling.
Basic Foot Care Course – PSWs / Foot Care Aides (Live Webinar Online + In-Class Session)
All applicants must submit an application form, meet program requirements, and be eligible to take the Basic Foot Care Course.
Course Dates: Please refer to the application form or submit your application.
Delivery Mode
The program combines online live webinars with a final in-class practical session:
Modules 1–8: Online live weekly webinars (approx. 8–10 weeks)
Module 9: 1:1 in-class session with instructor
Assignments/Exercises: Minimum 80% pass required
Online Exam (1): Minimum 80% pass required
Demonstration Exam: Completed in-class with instructor (minimum 80% pass)
Full attendance, participation, and computer access are mandatory.
Completion Requirements
To successfully complete the program, students must:
Complete all online live webinar modules
Successfully complete assignments/exercises (minimum 80% pass)
Pass case studies and online exam (minimum 80% pass)
Successfully complete practical in-class demonstration exam with instructor
Core Curriculum – PSWs
Personal Support Workers (PSWs) are an integral part of the health care team. Key points:
Front-line caregivers and first contact for personal care of seniors and clients with disabilities
Scope limitation: Do not cut or trim nails for diabetic clients, clients on blood thinners, or clients with circulatory disorders
Training focuses on identifying abnormal skin and nail conditions during assessments
Course theory covers basic foot care, taught by registered nurses experienced in Basic and Advanced Nursing Foot Care and Diabetic Foot Care
This program emphasizes foot assessment and prevention of complications, combining online live webinars with a practical in-class session for demonstration and evaluation.
Course Fee Includes
Materials will be mailed to students once the course is paid for and near the final module:
Instruments & Lab Costs: Sterile single-use instruments (nippers, black files, foot files)
PPE: Gowns, masks, gloves, disinfectant wipes
Health Teaching Supplies: Moisturizers
Assessment Tools: Monofilaments
Please read the Niagara School of Foot Care Policies before enrolling.
PSW Basic Foot Care Course – Fees
| Course | Format | Fee (plus HST) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Foot Care Course – Full Distance Education / Self-Directed Learning | Online / Self-Paced | $500 |
| Basic Foot Care Course – 1:1 Format | Online + In-Class | $1,000 |
All fees are subject to HST.
Foot Care Nurse Mentorship Program
Application Required: Please complete an application form before signing up or purchasing the program.
Program Cost: $400 plus HST
Course Start Date: TBD – please submit your application to schedule.
Program Overview
The Foot Care Nurse Mentorship Program is a collaborative, one-on-one partnership designed to advance the professional and personal growth of nurses in the field of foot care.
Participants are paired with a mentor who has completed both the Basic and Advanced Foot Care Courses, providing guidance and support for implementing foot care practices within their professional scope. The program focuses on clients in residential and clinical settings in the Niagara Region.
Full attendance and successful completion of assignments/exercises are mandatory.
Benefits of Mentorship
Mentees will:
Gain hands-on exposure to proper foot care procedures
Expand their professional network of foot care nurses
Receive ongoing support, feedback, and encouragement from a mentor
Improve understanding of clinic operations and best practices
Acquire new skills with structured practice opportunities
Strengthen their career goals and professional confidence
A Certificate of Continuing Education will be provided upon successful completion of the program.
Eligibility & Requirements
Candidates must submit:
Proof of current, non-restricted nursing registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) (RN or RPN)
Proof of professional liability insurance from their nursing association
Vulnerable Sector Check completed within the past six months
Computer access for all program components
Please read the Niagara School of Foot Care Policies before enrolling.
Live Webinar: Setting Up Your Own Foot Care Practice
This 1.5-hour live webinar is designed for nurses who are new to independent foot care practice or those seeking to update their existing practice.
Course Start Date: TBD – please submit your [Application] to schedule.
Cost: $50 plus HST
Webinar Highlights
Participants will receive practical guidance on:
How to start a foot care business (note: no legal advice provided)
Connecting with insurance companies
Resources for start-up cost assistance
Understanding liability and business insurance
Banking and accounting considerations
CNO best practice guidelines for private practice
Additional Information
The webinar is conducted 1:1, so please email to schedule a date.
Certificate of Continuing Education provided at the end of the session.
Full attendance is mandatory.
Please read the Store Policies before purchasing.