The question struck a chord, especially with youth work purists. Their hackles were already raised by a target in the Government's Resourcing Excellent Youth Services document. It says that of the 25 per cent of the 13- to 19-year-old target population reached, 60 per cent should undergo development that "results in an accredited outcome".
Opponents of accreditation argue that youth work offers a place where young people can relax away from home, school and the pressures of life.
Most don't want to be tested or measured in their leisure time. For those who do, there are plenty of well-known challenges, such as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award and Scout and Guide badges, to meet their needs. Insisted on elsewhere, accreditation will stifle creativity. It will cost money.
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