August 31st, 2026

​Launching the Cambridge OST Apprenticeship

The Agenda for Children OST (AFCOST) has officially registered and launched the Cambridge OST Apprenticeship. Supported by a $100,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), this program marks a pivotal step in our commitment to strengthening the Out-of-School Time (OST) workforce. 
 
This apprenticeship is a direct response to the challenges highlighted in the City of Cambridge OST Expansion Study. Our research made it clear that workforce instability is a primary barrier to high-quality OST programming. By prioritizing full-time, benefited positions, we are moving beyond identifying these challenges and testing a scalable, long-term solution. This program transforms OST roles into sustainable, professional career pathways.

A Proven Model for Professional Growth
The inaugural cohort consists of 20 apprentices currently working in front-line positions across the Cambridge OST ecosystem, including 16 who work in DHSP Programs.
The program structure ensures a comprehensive and rigorous learning experience through the nationally recognized key core components of a Registered Apprenticeship:

• Structured On-the-Job Training (OJT): Apprentices complete 2,000 hours of mentored training, allowing them to hone their skills in real-time.
• Related Technical Instruction (RTI): Participants engage in 150 hours of expert-led instruction to build a strong theoretical foundation.
• Professional Credentialing: Upon completion, apprentices earn a portable industry credential from the Massachusetts Department of Labor, validating their expertise for employers state-wide.
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Strong Partnerships, Stronger Results
This initiative is a collaborative effort. We are proud to partner with four dedicated Co-Sponsor Employers who have committed to hiring and supporting our apprentices: the City of Cambridge Department of Human Service Programs, East End House, the Cambridge Community Center, and the Community Art Center. Through a peer-exchange mentorship model, these organizations are working together to ensure every apprentice has a mentor and the support they need to succeed.
 
The impact of this program is already being felt. At our End of the Year Celebration on June 9th, we introduced our inaugural cohort to the community. Devin, one of the apprentices, shared his reflections on the importance of being connected to a professional learning community, noting how it directly enhances his work in supporting young people.
 
As we move forward, we remain focused on fostering a stable, highly skilled workforce that is passionate about and prepared to boost children’s development. We are excited to continue testing this apprenticeship model and invite our coalition partners to stay engaged as we build a stronger future for Cambridge OST.