Cay Hill:--- On March 30th, 2017 a Service Level Agreement (SLA) was signed between NIPA and Mrs. Johanna E.W.M. Sommers, an educational consultant for the development of a curriculum for an SBO level 3 and 4 /Associate of Applied Science degree in Sports & Physical Activity & Recreation program for NIPA. NIPA is ideally located right next to the RISC, Belair Fitness Center, HTC School and the ocean which makes it possible to practice all types of sports and recreational activities.
This program will be developed in collaboration with the Sports Federation, the Department of Sports and other stakeholders to ensure that it meets the sporting and labor market needs.
The program will be modeled after the MBO program Sports and Movement coordinator with a unique specialization possibility for St. Maarten. Students will have the option of choosing one of three specializations which are; Physical Education assistant for persons interested in working in primary schools or afternoon school, afternoon school programs etc. , Sports Activity Coordinator for persons interested in working in the Hospitality Sector. The last specialization is Training and Coaching for persons who would like to work in a fitness center as a personal coach or trainer.
Mrs. Sommers was selected for the job because her past experience and expertise in developing a similar program. Other stakeholders who were present at the signing of the SLA included: Mr. Sandro Garcia (Policy Advisor to the Minister of Education), Ms. Jonelle Richardson (Department Head of the Department of Sports), Mr. Aartwicht Bell (President of the Sports Federation), Mr. Rawley Busby (Policy Advisor for the Department of Sports) and Mrs. Tasheena Maccow-Thomas (Interim Director of NIPA). All stakeholders are excited about this agreement, as it is the foundation of the development and execution of this program. The program slated to start in September 2017 and will be open to PSVE PKL, TKL, and CXC students. Space will be limited as such interested person should contact NIPA as soon as possible for information and or early registration. Minister Jacobs congratulates all stakeholders in meeting the needs of education and the job market with this collaboration for courses geared towards sports to be added to NIPA.
