Area of Focused Competencies Para AFC Data Literacy


Para Sport Area of Focused Competence (AFC) 

The Para Sport Area of Focused Competence (AFC) confirms an area of specialty that supports practitioner excellence in Canada.   Practitioners are recognized for having acquired competencies that enhance their applied work with para sport athletes and coaches.  

This para-specific specialization builds upon the designation of High Performance Certification at any level. The objective is to evaluate both the practitioner’s knowledge and experience in HP para sport environments. 

The AFC and associated standards are recognized by the Sport Scientist Canada Management Group consisting of representation from Sport Canada, Canadian Olympic and Paralympic Institute Network, Canadian Olympic Committee, Canadian Paralympic Committee and Own the Podium.

Who qualifies for Para Sport AFC?

To be considered for the Para Sport AFC assessment, candidates must meet both of the below:  

  • Successfully completed High Performance Certification (any level) AND;
  • Provide evidence of 3 years of HP para sport experience

How do I apply?

  1. Read the Para AFC Guidelines (download below)
  2. Prepare your application materials:
    • Complete the AFC Submission Form (download form below)
    • Complete the AFC PowerPoint case study (download template below)
    • Prepare a copy of your current resume illustrating your experience in HP para sport
    • Acquire a reference letter from your HP sport employer - NSO or CSI (download template below)

What is the process?

  • Applications are accepted year round. Submit your application when you have all your materials prepared. 
  • Certification involves 2 steps:
    1. Submit written and presentation materials.  
      • Submit your application materials by clicking the “apply now” button
      • Your pre-requisites will be screened, and a reviewer will be assigned
    2. Complete an interview. 
      • The reviewer will contact you directly to set up your interview
      • An interview is approximately 1hour in length

Download Information Materials

Download Submission Materials

Note: The submission form must be opened in Adobe if you use a Mac. Download a free version of the software here.

APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN


Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?

  • There is no fee for Para Sport AFC

How do I calculate years of experience in Para Sport? 

  • Either full-time or part-time work in Para Sport can be included in the calculation of total years. 
  • If you include a year of part-time work in Para sport, your resume must show ongoing sport science provision throughout the year.

Why do I need HPC as a prerequisite?

  • HPC pre-requisites are a set of standards developed by the HPAC discipline groups and the HPC Committee in consultation across sport partners and discipline associations.
  • The Para Sport AFC is a specialization add-on designed to compliment the HPC competencies.

How long will it take to prepare my application? 

  • Applications can take 5-20 hours of preparation.  The majority of time is spent on the competency submission form.  This can be prepared over a period of days or weeks at your own pace.

How am I assessed? 

  • The Reviewer assesses both written submission, presentation, and your interview content according to the instructions provided in the Para Sport Guidelines.

I obtained my Para Sport AFC. Is there an acronym I can use to express this as a credential? 

  • The acronym is "AFC (Para Sport)."