It is regrettable that these two major programmes are now ending, even if there is much still to absorb from their recent findings. A study by De Montfort University has been commissioned by the Department for Education and Skills to explore the impact of youth work and some structural and funding features of youth services. The NYA is itself running some small-scale research projects in addition to the occasional research activity we commission or the good practice database we collect.
What has been less to the fore is the evidence that individual youth workers acquire through their day-to-day work. This has been described as knowledge in action and is - or ought to be - a vital component of professional practice. Just how does a professional youth worker become properly informed about what works, critically appraise external research and evaluation such as that by Ofsted, and then apply this in the complexity of routine work? The answer is not very easily. We know that workers in different professions tend to accommodate new learning only if it fits their existing predispositions and expertise. One of the many necessary steps needed to create informed practitioners is a coherent system of continued professional development. We do not have this for youth work.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
