Youth support worker
Level 3 · AdvancedCare services 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A youth support worker helps young people between the ages of 11 and 25 to overcome personal, social, or educational barriers and make positive choices in their lives. You will work in a range of settings - including schools, youth clubs, community organisations, and detached youth work - building trusting relationships and providing informal education and support. It is a rewarding level 3 route for those who want to make a difference in the lives of young people in their local community.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Young people's development - physical, emotional, and social stages
The purpose and values of informal education and youth work
How to build professional and trusting relationships with young people
Safeguarding law and how to respond to concerns about a young person
Equal opportunities, diversity, and anti-discriminatory practice
How to plan and deliver sessions and activities for young people
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Run open-access sessions at a youth club or community space
Build one-to-one relationships with young people who need support
Plan and lead group activities, discussions, and projects
Identify and respond to safeguarding concerns following procedures
Signpost young people to relevant support services and opportunities
Keep session records, registers, and case notes up to date
Work as part of a team with other youth and community workers
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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