NYA launches hundreds of free youth work training places
Emily Harle
Wednesday, February 8, 2023
The National Youth Agency (NYA) has announced more than 500 bursaries for youth work training courses to encourage young people to enter the sector, specialise in a chosen area, and progress into leadership roles.
The bursaries, offered through NYA and its regional partners, will enable young people to build their skills and confidence working with children and teenagers in a range of youth work settings, such as schools, healthcare and secure environments.
Some 570 placements will be available for level two and level three qualifications in youth work, and up to 130 places will be on offer for the new level four certificate in professional development, which is aimed at those wishing to develop their career in allied services working with young people such as social workers and the police force.
The following certificates will have bursaries available:
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Level two award in youth work principles
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Level two certificate in youth work practice
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Level three certificate in youth work practice
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Level three diploma in youth work practice
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Level four certificate in professional development (youth work)
Training will take place online, face-to-face or in a hybrid format, and is available to applicants who are either already working as a volunteer or in paid employment with young people.
The placements will be funded by the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), after similar schemes offered by NYA resulted in 650 youth workers completing training to level two and three since 2019.
Leigh Middleton, chief executive of the NYA said: “It is fantastic news that NYA can again deliver this funding for youth work training which will help those already in youth work to improve their practice, as well as attract new talent to the sector.
“The bursary funding reflects our commitment to building the skills and capacity of the workforce to ensure that all young people who need it have access to a trusted adult to support their personal, social and emotional development.
“Since 2019, the DCMS bursaries have enabled 650 trusted adults to gain the skills to enrich young people’s lives and provide invaluable support during the Covid-19 lockdowns. Now, with young people contending with the cost-of-living crisis, the importance of this fourth tranche of DCMS funding to invest in the skills and resilience of the youth work sector could not be more needed.”
Minister for civil society and youth, Stuart Andrew, added: "Youth work gives people the opportunity to make a positive impact helping the next generation reach their full potential, no matter where they come from or what their background is.
“I'm delighted to support this fantastic bursary scheme, funded by the government, which will be invaluable in training the next generation of youth workers."
