Work-Based Learning
In an increasingly complex global economy, all students must be prepared with intellectual, technical, and social skills needed to compete and contribute meaningfully to their communities. For most, this will mean completing some postsecondary education or training; for all, it will mean learning about themselves and the world of work.
Work-based learning (WBL) is a proactive approach to bridging the gap between high school and high-demand, high-skill careers in Tennessee. Students build on classroom-based instruction to develop employability skills that prepare them for success in postsecondary education and future careers. Through experiences like internships, apprenticeships, and paid work experience, juniors and seniors (16 years or older) may earn high school credit for capstone WBL experiences. WBL coordinators are educators who are trained and certified by the department to coordinate these WBL experiences for students.
- Presentations on WBL
- For questions about WBL training and certification, please email: WBL.training@tn.gov
- For questions specific to WBL Special Education transitions, please email: Special.Populations@tn.gov
WBL Email Updates
For important WBL updates, please sign up for the email list.
WBL Requirements
- Personalized Learning Plan Packet for WBL – Required WBL paperwork. For more information, see the WBL Policy Guide.
- Child Labor Law Overview
- TDOE Apprenticeship WBL Glossary
- 2023-24 Tennessee High School Apprenticeship Training Program Contact Information
- WBL Framework
- WBL Policy Guide
- WBL: Career Practicum Standards
- WBL: Special Education Transition
- Career Exploration Standards
- WBL Course Standards - For additional course information, visit our Career Clusters page and look for Work-Based Learning.
Industry 4.0 Diploma Distinction
WBL Course Code Updates
WBL Certification/Recertification Training
Registration is now open for WBL Certification and Recertification Training. WBL Certification and Recertification training consists of two parts. To earn a WBL certificate, a coordinator must complete both of the following:
- First, a WBL coordinator must successfully complete an online training course, offered on the department’s Learning Management System. The online course should take no longer than 90 minutes to complete.
- Second, all WBL coordinators who complete the online training course must also attend a full-day, in-person regional training led by WBL Regional Leads. In-person trainings begin promptly at 9 a.m. and end no later than 4:30 p.m.
- WBL certificates will be awarded to all who complete both portions of the training
Click here to register for WBL Certification or Recertification Networking Event training. Details about dates and locations for in-person trainings are provided in the registration form, so please make sure to select the training location that is nearest to you. Spring 2024 WBL registration will remain open through Friday, March 22.
For additional support with the online course, or to discuss WBL implementation strategies, email Matthew.Spinella@tn.gov.