School Age Care (SAC) programs are an important part of Alberta’s economy.  By providing before and after school care for children in kindergarten through grade six, SAC programs enable parents to fully participate in the workforce. Licensed SAC programs are required to follow the Child Care Act and Provincial Licensing Regulations as outlined by the Human Services branch of the Alberta government. Programs in Alberta are also eligible to apply for Accredited status by demonstrating established standards of excellence.

Quality SAC programs provide activities and interactions that are aimed at improving outcomes for Alberta’s children. The development of today’s youth is critical to the future of our society, and quality SAC programs have a large role to play in that development. SAC programs also play a critical role in communities by providing a primary level of intervention services to families and children.  These services support youth in reaching their full potential as citizens and future community leaders.

There are currently over 900 licensed school age programs operating in Alberta. Programs operate out of retail spaces, community based buildings (schools, churches and community halls), or can be attached to early learning childcare centres.

SAC professionals must meet the same core requirements as their peers who work in early child care settings. These requirements include First Aid, a Criminal Record Check and one of three possible levels of certification. Staff certifications can be received by submitting transcripts to the Provincial government from a recognized post-secondary ECE certificate, diploma or degree program or equivalent education. Certified professionals are qualified to work with children 0 - 12 years as recognized under the Child Care Act.