Child Care Apprenticeship
Mission: The mission of this program is to provide comprehensive training for early childhood teachers that will certify them as Child Care Development Specialists.
Length: 1 Year
Description: Students may receive credit for experiential learning for up to one year. Apprentices learn the laws and rules that govern the state and local community in which they are employed; how to plan and establish a safe, clean and healthy learning environment; skills in observation and recording methods; communication skills; how to recognize developmentally appropriate practices and guidance techniques; professionalism, how to identify community needs and resources; and how to take an active role as part of the child care center staff.
Distance Education: Pinellas Technical College also offers the Child Care Apprenticeship program in an online format. The online program is exactly like the traditional onsite program with one exception; the 144 hours of academic theory is delivered via computer as opposed to having face-to-face classroom instruction. Students with proficient computer skills may opt for enrollment into the online apprenticeship program. On-the-job training of 2000 hours is a requirement with a Child Care Coordinator visiting students periodically throughout the length of the program.
Articulation Agreement(s):
- Statewide Early Childhood Education, A.A.S./A.S. Degree
- Statewide Industry Certification - Child Development Associate to Early Childhood Education, A.A.S./A.S. Degree
Industry Certification(s): Child Care Development Specialist
Contact Information:
Ana Cabezas | cabezasa@pcsb.org