Early Childhood Education (ECE) Apprenticeship Program
Are you looking to earn an early childhood degree or credential at low or no cost? The Trying Together Early Childhood Education (ECE) Apprenticeship Program can help.
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The ECE Apprenticeship Program is a learn-as-you-earn career pathway that helps early learning professionals in Allegheny County earn a CDA Credential or Associate’s Degree while maintaining employment at an early learning program. The program is employer-driven and flexible in meeting Apprentices’ needs.
Apprentices choose courses based on what fits in their lives and schedules and are matched with a skilled Coach who offers additional guidance, structure, and support. Join Trying Together to advance your career and elevate the important work of early childhood.
How is the program structured?
The program includes two main elements:
completing courses through Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) and
completing on-the-job hours in a child care program with a Coach.
Most courses are offered through a synchronous model like Zoom or an asynchronous model like an online class or platform. However, in-person classes will be available in Fall 2021. Apprentices decide which learning format works best for their learning needs and schedules.
What does the program hope to achieve?
The program offers continuing education opportunities to early childhood educators and encourages a community of learning by building relationships between Apprentices and Coaches. Research shows that having well-educated, well-compensated, and supported early childhood educators:
reduces turnover in the field,
positively impacts work climates, and
creates a diverse, skilled workforce that is able to serve children of a variety of needs and backgrounds and work with families as partners in their child’s early education.
To support the healthy development of children and families, Pennsylvania must support the education, retention, and career advancement of professionals in the early childhood field. This program offers a pathway to do that.
Who is the ideal candidate?
This program is ideal for child care staff in Allegheny County who are looking to continue their education in early childhood or child development at low or no cost. Employers will be responsible for supporting Apprentices and Coaches in their work.
Become an Apprentice
Details about the program on the Trying Together website. Interested applicants should fill out the Apprenticeship Interest Form. For more information or to ask a question, contact Lindsey Vicoria at lindseyv@tryingtogether.org and Jasmine Davis at Jasmine@tryingtogether.org.