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Professional Development

Training and Professional Development Resources:
Learning Resources available to the 4-H system

National 4-H Learning Priorities

Six National 4-H Learning Priorities have been identified to focus on professional development for 4-H staff. The goal is to provide learning opportunities for 4-H professionals that will enhance program quality, which leads to positive outcomes for young people and improves the long-term success of 4-H.

Fact Sheet
Learning Priorities Descriptions
Steering Committee
Baseline Assessment Survey Results
Fall 2007 Update

4-H Youth Development Apprenticeship Program

The 4-H Apprenticeship Program is available to all states and includes formal instruction, on-the-job training and a mentor relationship. Evaluation results indicate that the apprenticeship model is an effective model for helping 4-H front-line youth workers. The Department of Labor has approved the standards for the 4-H Youth Development Apprenticeship Certificate, raising the status and recognition of youth workers. This program is done in partnership with NAE4-HA.

The Apprenticeship Program targets frontline practitioners who deliver comprehensive services to youth. Each Apprentice is assigned to a Master Practitioner, who serves as a supervisor, advisor and role model in support of the Apprentice.

The goals of the initiative include:

  • Provide training standards for the front-line youth worker;
  • Increase the number of youth workers receiving extensive, quality training;
  • Increase retention for both youth workers and youth programs;
  • Provide training and mentoring opportunities;
  • Provide a career path; and
  • Provide national recognition for successful completion of the apprenticeship.

The Apprenticeship Program is intended to strengthen the field of youth work and improve service delivery through quality training opportunities for youth practitioners. Read the overview handout to learn more.

State Implementation Manual

Related Instruction Resources and On-the-Job Learning Syllabus

Related Instruction Bibliography

4-H Apprentice Professional Development Record

Apprenticeship Implementation Plan template

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