You could take a college course, which may help you when looking for work.
Courses include:
- care
- health and social care
- T Level in Health
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
A youth worker supports young people, usually aged between 11 and 25, to help them achieve their full potential. This can involve working with individuals or groups, organising activities, providing advice and guidance, and helping young people with issues such as education, employment, relationships, or mental health. Youth workers can be based in youth centres, schools, charities, or local councils, and often collaborate with other professionals to provide the best possible support. The role can be challenging but is highly rewarding for those who enjoy making a positive difference in young people’s lives.
Youth workers in the UK typically earn between £21,000 and £33,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
According to the National Careers Service, there are over 10,000 people working as youth workers in the UK.
Youth workers often work evenings and weekends, averaging 37 to 40 hours per week.
Works with young people to provide guidance and support specifically around mental health and wellbeing, often in schools or community settings.
Organises and leads sports activities and programmes for young people to encourage healthy lifestyles and teamwork.
Engages with young people in the community, particularly those at risk, to provide advice, support, and connect them with local services.
Achieve at least five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including English and maths, as these are usually required for further study.
You should focus on obtaining good grades, especially in English and maths, as these subjects are essential for most youth work courses and apprenticeships. Some colleges may also accept equivalent qualifications such as BTECs or NVQs.
Take a relevant Level 3 course, such as a Diploma in Youth Work Practice, Health and Social Care, or similar subjects.
Level 3 qualifications can be pursued at college or through an apprenticeship. Courses in health and social care, youth work, or community work will give you a good foundation for your future studies or entry into the workforce.
Apply for a university course in youth work or community studies, or look for a higher or degree apprenticeship in youth work.
To become a fully qualified youth worker, you usually need a degree recognised by the National Youth Agency. Apprenticeships are a practical way to gain experience while you study. Related degree subjects include youth and community work, social work, or social sciences.
Get involved with local youth groups, charities, or community centres as a volunteer.
Volunteering gives you first-hand experience of working with young people and helps you develop key skills, such as communication, teamwork, and leadership. It can also help you build a network and gain references for future job applications.
Seek out placements or internships during your studies to gain professional experience.
Many courses include work placements as part of the curriculum. Alternatively, you can arrange your own placements during holidays. This experience is highly regarded by employers and can sometimes lead directly to job offers.
Look for jobs as an assistant youth worker or similar roles in local councils, charities, or schools.
Entry-level positions allow you to develop your skills under supervision and learn more about the profession. Roles can be found on local authority websites, charity job boards, and youth organisation websites.
Gain experience and register with a professional body, such as the National Youth Agency, if required.
Some roles, especially those in statutory youth work, may require you to be professionally registered. This shows your commitment to high standards in youth work and may open up further career opportunities.
Attend training courses and consider specialisms, such as mental health or mentoring.
Ongoing training helps you keep your skills up to date and allows you to specialise in areas such as mental health, outdoor education, or substance misuse. This can enhance your career prospects and allow you to take on more responsibility.
Social workers help people of all ages overcome challenges in their lives, including children and families, ensuring their welfare and safety.
Community development workers help communities to bring about social change and improve the quality of life in their local area.
Counsellors provide emotional support and guidance to individuals facing personal difficulties, including young people.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Youth Worker. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Youth Worker and a Care Worker both involve supporting and assisting vulnerable individuals, often in community or residential settings. Both roles require strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and a commitment to promoting the well-being and development of the people they serve.
You can get into this job through:
You could take a college course, which may help you when looking for work.
Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could apply to do an apprenticeship with a care organisation or the NHS.
Apprenticeship options include:
These can take between 1 and 2 years to complete and combine workplace training with study in the classroom.
There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have:
You can volunteer with an organisation that supports vulnerable people, like a care home, charity, hospital or hospice. This can help you when applying for paid work.
You can find volunteering opportunities through:
You can apply for care worker jobs directly. If you get the role, you'll be given on-the-job training by your employer.
It's important to be kind, caring and have a respectful attitude towards people who need care and support.
Some employers might want you to have GCSEs in English and maths at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent. However, many will offer training to applicants who have the right personal qualities.
Time spent caring for someone you know also counts as having experience in a caring role.
You can find out more about careers in care from:
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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