Training and Coursework

There are thousands of classes and workshops available across the state. Find them in the Bright Futures Information System (BFIS) on-line course calendar and in college catalogues. There are college courses for degree and non-degree students, workshops offered by regional Resource Development Specialists and other community organizations, and conferences. Many are free of charge or low cost.  There are also numerous resources to help pay for coursework and workshops.

To find instructors or apply to be an instructor, go to the Instructor Registry page of this website (under Roles).  If you are a BFIS approved sponsor working with Northern Lights to offer training and coursework, go to Sponsor page of this website (under Roles). 

Trainings and coursework must be documented with a either a transcript or a certificate that includes: a) sponsor name and logo; b) title and description of content; c) date(s), time, total training hours; d) name of participant; and e) signature of sponsor or instructor to verify attendance. Instructors should be in the Instructor Registry.

Group training and coursework use adult learning principles.  The instructor engages the participants through interaction with each other and the material in order to meet the specified learning objectives.  Classes cover one or more of the core knowledge areas:

• Child and youth development
• Teaching and learning environments /curriculum
• Healthy and safe environments
• Families and communities
• Professionalism and program organization

Training and coursework may meet requirements for credentials, certificates, degrees  and/or regulations.  State-wide courses and modules described in this section are offered consistently across Vermont.