Start Your Career in Early Childhood Education
First Steps is a free, semester-long training program that prepares adults to enter Vermont’s early childhood education workforce.
Originally developed by the City of Burlington’s Early Learning Initiative, First Steps is now available to all Chittenden County residents and designed to support participants every step of the way.
Who Is This Program For?
- Adults with their high school diploma or GED interested in working with young children
- People seeking a career change or new opportunity
- Community members from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds
- No prior experience in early childhood education required
What You’ll Receive:
- Early Childhood Fundamentals Course (45 hours), cohort model
- Pediatric First Aid & CPR Certification
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion training
- Additional early childhood education trainings
- Hands-on classroom observation experience and exposure to a variety of classroom settings
- Eligible for $800 completion bonus
Graduates leave the program prepared to work as assistant teachers in early childhood settings, with:
• Job-ready skills and certifications
• Real classroom experience
• Confidence working with young children
• Connections to local childcare programs
Ready to Take the First Step?
Enrollment Deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026
Program runs: March 9, 2026 – June 22, 2026
Apply today!
This program is supported by:
