INTERNSHIP DETAILS

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR APPRENTICESHIP

CompanyTraining & Research Foundation
LocationSanta Ana
Work ModeOn Site
PostedJuly 15, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
Participate in a two-year apprenticeship combining college coursework at Irvine Valley College with paid, supervised hands-on experience. Support young children and families within a classroom setting while building a professional career in early childhood education.
Internship Type
full time
Company Size
48
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
Training and Research Foundation is a non-profit organization that serves low-income preschool children and families by providing comprehensive child development and school readiness services including early childhood education, health, nutrition, and mental health. Since 1968, TRF has been committed to improving the lives of children in the Inglewood, Lennox, Hawthorne, and West Los Angeles areas, offering affordable subsidized childcare to families who qualify. Most recently TRF has expanded into Riverside and Orange counties, extending access to free and affordable childcare, free summer camps, after school programs and other essential services. TRF is committed to the long-range program goals that prepare children to succeed in school and life.
About the Role

Description

Learn. Earn. Build a career supporting young children and families.

Two-year college and paid work-based learning pathway offered through Irvine Valley College, TRF Children & Family Services, and

OC Pathways.


WHY THIS OPPORTUNITY MATTERS

Are you passionate about working with young children but don't know where to start? Or maybe you're looking for a career that offers purpose, growth, and the opportunity to earn while you learn.


The Early Childhood Educator Registered Apprenticeship Program is designed for individuals who want to build a meaningful career in early childhood education while gaining paid, hands-on experience.


Through a partnership between Training and Research Foundation (TRF), Irvine Valley College (IVC), and OC Pathways, you'll receive college instruction, one-on-one support, and real classroom experience—all while earning a paycheck.


This isn't just a job. It's the first step toward a rewarding career supporting children, families, and your own professional future. 


PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Paid, part-time, supervised experience working with young children and families

• College coursework and guided support at Irvine Valley College

• A clear pathway toward early childhood education careers

• Academic and career guidance throughout the program

• Zero-Cost Tuition and Fees for Apprenticeship Courses


WHO SHOULD COMPLETE THE INTEREST FORM AND ATTEND THE JULY 20TH INFORMATION SESSION?

  • Individuals that are 18 or older and want to work with children while earning related educational units
  • Individuals interested in careers supporting young children and families
  • Individuals able to participate in a 2-year cohort, including Irvine Valley College (IVC) coursework and paid on-the-job training through the Training and Research Foundation (TRF)
  • Candidates who can meet IVC enrollment and TRF Children & Family

Services hiring requirements

  • After acceptance into the cohort. Official hiring as an apprentice employee by TRF is contingent on the following, individuals will produce
  • DOJ Background Clearance
  • Health Screening and related proof of immunizations and/or clearance (Pertussis, TB, and Measles)


READY TO START YOUR CAREER?

If you're ready to invest in yourself while making a difference in the lives of young children, we'd love to meet you.

Apply today and begin your journey toward becoming an Early Childhood Educator.

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Eligible to enroll at Irvine Valley College.
  • Ability to commit to the full two-year apprenticeship program, including coursework and paid on-the-job training.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrated interest in working with young children.

ADDITIONAL HIRING REQUIREMENTS

Upon acceptance into the apprenticeship, candidates must successfully complete:

  • Criminal Record Clearance (DOJ/FBI/CACI).
  • Health Screening (LIC 503).
  • Proof of required immunizations and/or clearances, including Tdap (Pertussis), MMR (Measles), Influenza (if applicable), and current TB clearance.
  • Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training (AB 1207).
  • Verification of identity and authorization to work in the United States as required by federal law.
Key Skills
Early Childhood EducationCommunicationInterpersonal SkillsChildcareClassroom Management
Categories
EducationSocial Services
Benefits
Zero-Cost Tuition And Fees For Apprenticeship CoursesPaid Work-Based Learning