Sports Pedagogical Professional: two worlds, one program

Sports-focused after-school care centers are springing up everywhere. Sports-based after-school care is a concept that is catching on enormously, and the demand for well-trained professionals is growing rapidly along with it. Yet, all too often, there is a lack of such professionals. That is precisely why Summa has developed a new program where the two fields of pedagogy and sports come together: Sports Pedagogical Professional. Lecturers Greetje van Binsbergen and Anaïs van Hout tell you all about it.

You see it immediately in the workplace: a sports professional who is also pedagogically strong really makes the difference. If a child doesn't want to participate or needs extra attention, the Sports Pedagogical Professional knows exactly how to handle the situation. And vice versa: someone with a pedagogical background also gives a better sports lesson. “What is the right language to use? How do you approach a child in the right way? That is simply very difficult,” says Anaïs. “Employers are increasingly looking for professionals who can supervise sports activities *and* act pedagogically.”

With this program, Summa is responding to that need. In three years, students obtain two full diplomas: Sports and Exercise Leader (MBO level 3) and Specialized Pedagogical Assistant (MBO level 4). Greetje emphasizes that it is not a half-hearted combination. “They simply obtain two full diplomas, which leads to broader employability and more career opportunities.”

The program is deliberately practically oriented. Students receive instruction at two locations in Eindhoven: on Willem de Rijkelaan for the pedagogical component and on Vijfkamplaan for sports and movement. Greetje: “We want the program to be as dynamic as possible. Just like the sports pedagogical professional will do with children in the workplace.” Furthermore, students start internships early on, increasing to two days a week in the second year. Thanks to the Level 4 diploma, progression to higher professional education (HBO), such as the ALO or the primary teacher training college (PABO), is entirely possible.

The program attracts a remarkably diverse group: a mix of boys and girls with different backgrounds. “In practice, we notice that boys are less likely to choose Pedagogical Work. They indicate that this is because the focus is primarily on working with very young children,” says Greetje. “With the Sports Pedagogical Professional program, the emphasis is on children aged 4 to 12, and sports and physical activity take center stage. That often appeals to them more.” For students who have always had two passions, the program offers exactly what they are looking for. Sports and working with children no longer have to be two separate choices.

The program starts in August 2026 and there are still places available. Are you sporty, do you enjoy working with children and young people, and do you want a program that truly prepares you for the job market? Then the Sports Pedagogical Professional program at Summa Zorg & Welzijn is for you. Here you can find more information and register..