Adult Education Division 2024 2025
The Adult Education Division (AED) of the New Castle County Vocational Technical School District offers a wide range of educational programs.
Part-time day and evening courses are offered in academic preparation for high school diploma and GED® testing, English as a second language, registered apprenticeship certification, and technical training programs.
More than 2,500 students enroll each year. AED enrollment begins in summer, and classes run from September to May.
AED has the programs for you.
Whether you are interested in retraining, advancement, continuing education, or completion of your high school requirements, AED has a program to assist you. Look inside.
James H. Groves Adult High School
James H. Groves Adult High School is designed to provide students 16 years of age and older the opportunity to complete their high school credits and earn a high school diploma. Previously earned high school credits are evaluated for transfer credits and applied toward graduation requirements.
James H. Groves High School is accredited by the Delaware Department of Education and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
Cost: $40/semester*
SEPT – MAY M–Th 9:00 am - 3:30 pm In-person or Online (Marshallton)
*Non-refundable materials. All fees due at graduation.
In-School Alternative Credit Recovery
The In-School Alternative Credit Recovery program is provided through the James H. Groves Adult High School and delivers services outside of the home school’s regularly scheduled hours of instruction. The program provides flexible classes and permits students to continue their education at their home school and attend classes through our In-School Alternative Credit Recovery program at the same time. This allows students to stay on track for graduation at their home school.
Cost: FREE
SEPT – MAY Days & Times Varies In-person or Online (Location varies)
Adult Basic Education
Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes offer an opportunity to build reading, writing and math skills whether you have a secondary credential or not. Many of our ABE students go on to earn a GED® credential or Groves Adult High School Diploma.
Cost: FREE
SEPT – MAY M-Th Day and Evening In-person (Marshallton & DOL Fox Valley)
GED® Preparation
GED® preparation classes provide whole class and individualized instruction in the basic skills of reading, writing, and mathematics to prepare students for the GED® assessments.
The GED® test is a four-subject computer-based test in Science, Social Studies, Mathematical Reasoning, and Reasoning through Language Arts.
Cost: FREE
SEPT – MAY M-Th Day and Evening In-person (Marshallton & DOL Fox Valley)
ENGLISH LANGUAGE: LEARNING for SUCCESS
ESL/ELL Classes
Classes are for students who want to begin learning English or want to improve their English language skills. Instruction is focused on the reading, writing, listening, and speaking language domains for the development of communication and literacy skills.
Cost: FREE
SEPT – MAY M–Th Day and Evening In-person (Marshallton)
IELCE Career Training
Are you interested in a new career AND also need to learn English?
Check out our Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education program (IELCE) where you will receive English language support while also learning valuable trade skills.
Cost: FREE
SEPT – MAY Day & Times Varies In-person (Location Varies)
Academic Class Locations
Marshallton Education Center 1703 School Ln, Wilmington, DE 19808
Department of Labor Fox Valley 4425 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19802
ACADEMIC REGISTRATION:
Scan the code to begin registration for your academic classes with AED. Start today.
REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP
AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY
ASE Auto Technician
2-Year Program | 300 Total Hours | $575/Year
RTI
This two-year curriculum offers courses in Brakes, Suspension & Steering, Engine Repair, and Electrical/Electronic Systems and prepares students to complete these ASE Certifications: A5 Brakes (72 hours), A4 Suspension and Steering (72 hours), A1 Engine Repair (72 hours), A6 Electrical/Electronic Systems (72 hours).
OCT – APR T/Th 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Delcastle)
CONSTRUCTION
Carpentry
4-Year Program | 600 Total Hours | $575/Year
RTI
This four-year NCCER curriculum helps learners to build general carpentry skills, before moving into advanced topical coverage of framing and finish carpentry, as well as concrete and form carpentry. The unique three-tier approach to Carpentry complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs, while also supporting shorter programs focused on specific carpentry career pathways.
OCT – APR M/W 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid or In-Person (Delcastle)
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a professional certification group that certifies professionals and shops in the automotive repair and service industry in the United States and parts of Canada.
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) is recognized by the construction industry as the training, assessment, certification and career development standard for the construction and maintenance craft professional.
Related Technical Instruction (RTI) classes meet Delaware DOL’s RTI requirement for apprenticeship and provide systematic instruction designed to provide apprentices with the knowledge of the theoretical and technical subjects related to the apprentice’s occupation.
Construction Craft Laborer
2-Year Program | 300 Total Hours | $575/Year
This two-year NCCER curriculum introduces learners to a variety of trades, including carpentry, masonry, ironworking, electrical, welding, and heavy equipment. Upon completion of this two-level curriculum, the learner will have the basic knowledge needed to contribute safely on any job site.
OCT – APR M/W 6:30–9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Hodgson)
Electrical
4-Year Program | 600
This four-year NCCER curriculum prepares learners for a career as skilled professionals in the electrical field. It places strong emphasis on safe work practices, while covering applied electrical theory and residential, commercial, and industrial electrical knowledge and skills. Coverage of the NEC (National Electric Code) is integrated throughout the program to ensure learners are prepared as competent journeyman electricians. The four-level curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR M/W & T/Th 6:30 – 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid or In-Person (Hodg/Delc)
Electronic Systems Technician (EST)
3-Year Program | 576 Total Hours | $575/Year
This three-year NCCER curriculum prepares learners for a career in this highly in-demand field, with strong emphasis on installing and troubleshooting telecommunications, security, and fire alarm systems. The four-level EST curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR M/W 6:00 - 9:30 pm 192 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Hodgson)
Heavy Equipment Operations (HEO)
3-Year Program | 450 Total Hours | $575/Year
This NCCER curriculum covers the foundational skills of safety, pre- and postoperation checks, site planning and layout, and operations for a range of lightduty and heavy equipment. Heavy Equipment Operations supports multiple unique training pathways and credentials for Utility Tractors, Forklift, Loader, Dozer, Motor Graders, and it complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR M/W 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Hodgson)
Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
4-Year Program | 600 Total Hours | $575/Year
This NCCER curriculum prepares learners for a career as skilled heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers. It covers the concepts technicians need to safely install, maintain, and troubleshoot HVACR systems. The curriculum also covers needed basic knowledge of sheet metal, welding, and pipefitting. This curriculum meets HVAC Excellence accreditation standards to prepare trainees to sit for HVAC Excellence certification tests. The four-level HVACR curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR M/W 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid or In-person (Hodg/Delc)
Instrumentation
4-Year Program | 600 Total Hours | $575/Year
This NCCER curriculum prepares learners for a career as skilled instrument fitters and technicians through rigorous, industry-designed content. This curriculum covers critical concepts needed in this broad and demanding field, including piping, tubing, fasteners, relays and timers, instrument calibration and configuration and more. The four-level Instrumentation curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR T/Th 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Hodgson)
Ironworking
3-Year Program | 450 Total Hours | $575/Year
This NCCER curriculum prepares learners for a career as skilled ironworkers. It covers ironworking safety, tools, welding, cranes, rigging, forklifts and survey equipment, as well as trade drawings, steel joists and structural steel. The learner will also apply practical applications of mathematical principles on the job site. The three-level Ironworking curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR M/W 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Delcastle)
Masonry
3-Year Program | 450 Total Hours | $575/Year
This NCCER curriculum covers masonry tools and equipment, specifications, repair, restoration, reinforcement, and more for residential and commercial masonry projects. The three-level Masonry curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR T/Th 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Hodgson)
Millwright
4-Year Program | 600 Total Hours | $575/Year
This comprehensive NCCER curriculum that prepares learners for a career as skilled professionals in the field by placing strong emphasis on safe work practices during installation, alignment, troubleshooting and maintenance of machinery and equipment. Coverage of math, drawings, specifications and measures are integrated throughout to ensure learners are prepared as safe and productive millwrights. The four-level Millwright curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR M/W 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Hodgson)
Pipefitting
4-Year Program | 600 Total Hours | $575/Year RTI
The Pipefitting program is a four-year comprehensive NCCER curriculum that covers key concepts of installation and repair of high- and low-pressure pipe systems used in manufacturing, in the generation of electricity and in the heating and cooling of buildings. The four-level Pipefitting curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR T/Th 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Hodgson)
Plumbing
4-Year Program | 600 Total Hours | $575/Year
RTI
The Plumbing program is a four-year comprehensive NCCER curriculum that prepares learners for a career as skilled plumbers. It covers the concepts technicians need to safely install, test, maintain, and repair many different types of pipe systems for residential, commercial and public buildings. Coverage of math, drawings, code and other critical knowledges skills ensure learners are set up for job success. The four-level Plumbing curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs
OCT – APR M/W & T/Th 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid or In-person (Hodg/Delc)
Sheet Metal
4-Year Program | 600 Total Hours | $575/Year
RTI
The Sheet Metal program is a four-year comprehensive NCCER curriculum that prepares learners for a career as skilled sheet metal craft professionals with rigorous, industry-designed content. This curriculum covers critical concepts needed in this broad field, including installation of ductwork, bend allowances and advanced architectural sheet metal. The four-level Sheet Metal curriculum complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR T/Th 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Delcastle)
Sprinkler Fitting
4-Year Program | 600 Total Hours | $575/Year
RTI
The Sprinkler Fitting program is a four-year comprehensive NCCER curriculum that was developed in partnership with industry experts at the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) and covers the relevant job skills and practical knowledge needed in sprinkler fitting. Coverage of NFPA 13 is integrated throughout to ensure learners are prepared for real-world application of these skills. The four-level Sprinkler Fitting curriculum also complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR M/W 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Hodgson)
Welding
4-Year Program | 600 Total Hours | $575/Year
RTI
The Welding program is a four-year comprehensive NCCER curriculum that helps learners develop safe technical skills using Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Gas Metal Arc Welding, Flux Core Arc Welding and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding as well as pipe welding techniques related to these four welding processes. Coverage of safety, quality and interpretation of manufacturing and construction drawings and measurements is integrated throughout. NCCER’s Welding curriculum correlates to the AWS SENSE (Schools Excelling through National Skills Education) standards and guidelines for Entry Welder and it complies with the U.S. Department of Labor’s standards for apprenticeship programs.
OCT – APR M/W 6:30 - 9:30 pm 150 Hrs/Year Hybrid (Delcastle)
TECHNICAL TRAINING
EDUCATION
AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY
ASE G1 Certification
The ASE G1 Auto Maintenance and Light Repair course is required for entry into the two-year ASE Auto Technician Apprenticeship program. The ASE G1 course prepares students to perform general preventative maintenance and inspection tasks on automobiles and earn the ASE G1 Certification.
$575 72 Hours OCT + JAN or JAN + APR T/Th 6:30 - 9:30 pm Hybrid (Delcastle)
Early Child Care and Education
The TECE 1 and 2 program includes the curriculum developed by Delaware First. Participants will make program visits and complete outside readings and assignments leading to the development of a portfolio. Participants will develop teaching strategies and reflective practice in working with young children.
$575 120 Hours OCT – APR M/W 6:30 - 9:30 pm Hybrid (Hodgson)
HEALTHCARE
Dental Assisting and X-Ray Certification
This program provides both lectures and lab experience to gain the basic skills necessary to assist the dentist in an entry level position. The dental X-ray portion of the course builds knowledge of the production and use of X-rays and provides clinical instruction to prepare students for X-ray certification through the National Board as mandated by the State of Delaware. (Certification fee not included in course tuition.)
$575 150 Hours OCT – APR M/W 6:30 - 9:30 pm Hybrid (Delcastle)
CONSTRUCTION
72-Hour Welding
$575 per course | 72 Hours per course
Each course meets: OCT – JAN or JAN – APR M/W 6:30 - 9:30 pm In-person (Delcastle)
Basic SMAW Provides instruction on the safe assembly and operation of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) equipment. Student will learn how to properly set up, adjust, and shut down the welding machines. Applications will include running beads, welding lap, and butt joints plus inside and outside corners in both the flat and horizontal positions.
Advanced SMAW Provides instruction on the safety and procedures required for Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) techniques in both the vertical and overhead positions. Students will learn how to weld open V-Grove Joints and will also be introduced to basic pipe welding.
Basic MIG Provides instruction on how to safely set up, adjust, and shut down Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) equipment. Students will learn to establish an arc, make weld beads, and weld basic joints on mild steel and Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW) will also be introduced.
Advanced MIG Provides instruction on the safe assembly and operation of Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) equipment. Students will learn to weld fillet and groove welds in the flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions with flux cored wire
Basic TIG Provides instruction on the safe assembly and operation of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) equipment. Students will learn equipment setup and joint design as well as how to weld flat and horizontal butt, corner, lap and fillet weld joints on steel plate.
Advanced TIG Provides instruction on the safe assembly and operation of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) equipment. Students will learn equipment setup and joint design as well as how to weld stainless steel, mild steel, and aluminum in all positions using all weld joint designs.
DELAWARE SKILLS CENTER
Certified Nursing Assistant
6 weeks | 206 Hours
Designed to prepare participants for work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities or home care. Upon completion of the course, students will take the Delaware State Test for Nurse Aide Certification.
Licensed Practical Nursing
44 weeks | 1,635 Hours
Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), this curriculum is designed to prepare participants with theory, skills lab and clinical instruction. Upon completion of the course, students will take the NCLEX-PN exam for Board of Nursing Licensure.
Commercial Drivers License
6 weeks | 160 Hours
Designed to prepare participants with theory, simulated driving experience and 120 hours of hands-on driving instruction for the obtainment of a Class A – Commercial Driver’s License. Upon completion of the course, students will take the State of Delaware road exam for licensure.
Computer Network Support
18 weeks | 630 Hours
Designed to prepare participants for entry-level positions in the field of Information Technology (IT) support. Candidates should have basic knowledge of computers and a strong desire to learn computer technology. Upon completion of the course, students will take the A+ and Network+ certification exams.
Carpentry
12 weeks | 420 Hours
Designed to prepare participants for entry-level positions in the field of Carpentry. Students are exposed to all specialized areas of carpentry (framing, roofing, drywall, windows, siding, trim and finish work). Upon completion of the course, students will enter the field as a competent and qualified helper or apprentice.
Electrical
12 weeks | 420 Hours
Designed to prepares participants for entry-level positions in the field of Electric. Upon completion of the course, students will receive their Delaware State Electrical Apprentice License and enter the field as a qualified helper or apprentice.
Plumbing
12 weeks | 420 Hours
Designed to prepare participants for entry-level positions in the field of Plumbing. Upon completion of the course, students will enter the field as a qualified helper or apprentice.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning (HVAC)
12 weeks | 420 Hours
Designed to prepare participants for entry-level positions in the field of HVAC. Upon completion of the course, students may receive EPA Certification and will enter the field as a qualified helper or apprentice.
Welding & Fabrication
18 weeks | 630 Hours
Designed to prepare participants for entry-level positions in the field of Welding. Upon completion of the course, students will enter the field as a qualified helper or apprentice.
Evening Welding
6 weeks | 72 Hours
Designed for entry level participants with little to no previous welding experience. This learn-to-weld class provides basic instruction and hands on practice over a 6-week period.
Note: Students in construction programs receive 10-Hour OSHA Certification.
