School Age Professional Certificate
Class Start Dates
Spring term | February 10, 2026
Mission: The mission of this program is to prepare students for employment in the school age industry. Graduates earn a School Age Professional Certificate (SAPC) and are prepared to be in charge of before and after-school children in group care.
Program V200310 consists of a planned sequence of courses.
Child Care Worker - Course HEV0112 (40 hours) – Students learn the laws and rules that govern the state and local community in which they are employed. Planning and establishing a safe, clean, and healthy learning environment is also included. Students also gain skills in observation and recording methods, communication skills, as well as recognizing developmentally appropriate practices and guidance techniques.
School Age Care Professional - Course HEV0190 (80 hours) – Professionalism, creating a safe, healthy environment and use of materials to enrich the classroom are covered. Guidance techniques to assist with children’s social and emotional development are studied. Ways to enhance creative and cognitive skills are also included. Students will work on individual portfolios and prepare a resource file. Graduates from the program will be prepared to be in charge of children in a school age environment.
On-the-job or cooperative training is a critical element of the program; classes are held at various locations in Pinellas County.
Special Admission Requirements: This program requires a high school diploma or GED for entry and a person must be at least 18 years old.
Distance Education: Online format only
Industry Certification(s): School Age Certification
Related Links:
- Children's Forum
- Afterschool Alliance
- Florida After School Alliance
- Florida Recreation & Park Association
- Early Learning Coalition
Minimum Satisfactory Academic Progress Requirement: 70%
Minimum Attendance Requirement: 90%
