INTERESTED IN OUR SCHOOL-AGE CREDENTIAL?
Important Update: The UAN School-Age Credential process will be changing for the 2025-2026 school year. If you plan to apply under the current process, all requirements—including observation, training hours, and the NAA self-assessment—must be fully completed by May 2025. Have questions? We’re here to help! Email us at
The Utah Afterschool Network (UAN) School-Age Credential was inspired by the processes and observation tools used to obtain the Child Development Associate (CDA), the Military School-Age Credential, the Michigan School-Age Youth Development Credential, and the Missouri Youth Development Credential. It is also aligned with the National Afterschool Association Core Knowledge and Competencies for Afterschool and Youth Development Professionals (NAA-CKCs). The NAA-CKCs provide a foundation of 10 content areas in which professionals should increase their knowledge and skills through ongoing training and education.
ELIGIBILITY
The UAN School-Age Credential is currently available to childcare providers working with school-age youth (ages 5-12) in a licensed, center-based setting in Utah. Unfortunately, those not working in this type of setting are not eligible for the UAN School-Age Credential at this time.
REQUIREMENTS
Candidates must fulfill each of the following requirements:
- Before submitting any documents all eligible applicants must submit the UAN School-Age Credential Intent to Complete Google form. Applicants can expect 3 months to complete the review and observational process upon submitting the UAN School-Age Credential Intent to Complete Google form
- Complete 120 hours of training within the past 5 years related to working with school-age youth within 10 competency areas (as outlined on the Competency Area Overview above).
- Complete 480 hours of work experience in a center-based setting with school-age youth.
- Maintain a current, free membership with the National Afterschool Association.
- Subscribe to the Utah Afterschool Network newsletter.
- Complete Level Two of the revised 2023 National Afterschool Association Core Knowledge and Competencies Self-Assessment Tool.
- Receive an observation from an approved, external evaluator.
Once completed, the UAN School-Age Credential is valid for three years. To maintain a valid Credential, applicants may renew their Credential before expiration.
If you'd like to receive the application materials, please complete this request for information.
Utah School-Age Credential Intent to Complete.
Looking to renew your UAN School-Age Credential?
School-Age Credential Changes Coming Summer 2025
The School Age Credential will be undergoing important changes starting in the 2025-2026 school year. We understand the significance of these updates, and you can view our one-pager with key highlights for your reference. Full details will be shared in Summer 2025, so please stay tuned for more information as we finalize the updates. Be sure to check the website for the one-pager and any additional updates as they become available.
