Youth Worker Jobs

Youth worker jobs can vary wildly in their scope, with roles supporting young people through a whole range of issues, from behavioural difficulties and teenage pregnancy, to criminal justice and social care issues in the private and voluntary sectors. It was once considered a standalone position, but now youth work has been incorporated into a diverse range of sectors where working with vulnerable young people is a key part of the role. As such, the skills of youth workers are very much in demand.

What’s Involved?

You could work with anyone between the ages of 11 and 25 years old, and while your responsibilities will vary depending on the needs of the particular young person you are working with, you will typically be involved in:

Organising sports, arts, education, drama and other activities

Advising and supporting young people

Working with young offenders or those who are at risk of offending

Developing and running projects that deal with issues like health, crime, alcohol and drugs

Managing volunteers and part-time workers

Working to get grants and funding

You will also work with third parties such as social workers, teachers, the police and probation officers to support the personal and social development of your clients.

Entry Requirements

To become a fully qualified youth worker you will need a professional qualification that’s recognised by the National Youth Agency (NYA). There are a number of ways to get a place on a recognised degree course, which include:

Taking A-Levels or their equivalent before applying for the degree course

Working as a part-time or volunteer youth support worker before completing work-based qualifications for entry onto a degree course

Gaining a place on a youth work apprenticeship and using the work-based qualifications to get onto the degree course. You can learn more about apprenticeships in your area here.

If you have a degree in another subject, you can take a postgraduate certificate, diploma or master’s qualification to become a qualified youth worker.

To find out more about youth worker jobs in your area, please register with Seven Criminal Justice and start your search today.