New ‘Administrators In Training’ Programme
A new training programme is launching in Bermuda to “professionalise leadership across the long-term care sector, improving accountability, operational standards, and the quality of care provided to seniors island-wide.”
A spokesperson said, “The Administrators in Training [AIT] programme is a 12-month professional certification designed for administrators and managers of licensed nursing homes, rest homes, and caregiver agencies in Bermuda.
“It includes two academic semesters and a supervised practicum, providing participants with hands-on training in the competencies required to manage modern long-term care facilities.
“Participants complete 12 core competencies across four domains: care and support, environment, operations, and leadership and strategy.
“The curriculum focuses on practical, day-to-day management skills, including resident care systems, admissions and discharge processes, regulatory compliance, financial oversight, staffing, governance, risk management, and emergency preparedness.
“Programme partners say recurring issues identified through facility inspections and complaints highlighted the need for consistent, formal leadership training across Bermuda’s long-term care sector.”
Ja’Mae Smith, Programme Manager at the Bermuda Health Council, said the AIT programme was developed in response to clear evidence.
“We developed this training programme because the data showed that many issues in long-term care facilities could be prevented with stronger management,” said Ms Smith.
“By addressing root causes, the programme supports safer operations, stronger compliance, and better outcomes for residents.”
She added: “Effective leadership strengthens the entire system. When administrators are confident and well-trained, staff performance improves and residents receive the quality of care they deserve.”
Although administrator certification is required by law in Bermuda, no local training pathway previously existed. The AIT programme adapts a recognised international model and aligns it with Bermuda’s regulatory and operational framework.
Dr Claudette Fleming of Age Concern, who led the localisation of the curriculum, said the programme reflects years of collaboration and sector demand.
“Long-term care homes are doing their best under increasing pressure, but they need the right structures and leadership tools. Better-run homes deliver higher-quality care for Bermuda’s seniors,” she said.
“This programme formalises the training administrators have long needed and supports them in meeting modern regulatory and operational expectations.”
Karen Smith, Programme Coordinator at Bermuda College, said the AIT programme fills a critical workforce gap.
She said, “Administrators carry enormous responsibility, yet until now there has been no formal, local training pathway. This programme provides structured, practical preparation that the sector urgently needs.”
She continued: “Participants gain tools they can apply immediately in their facilities, strengthening confidence, leadership capacity, and care standards.”
A spokesperson added, “Lecturers will be drawn from healthcare, regulatory, emergency management, business, and community sectors, ensuring participants receive interdisciplinary, real-world instruction.
“Programme organisers say the initiative will help develop competent, ethical long-term care administrators, strengthening oversight and improving care quality across Bermuda.
“The course runs from January 27 to April 28. For eligibility requirements, programme schedules, or enrolment details, contact apace@college.bm or visit www.college.bm.”
