The launch of a new introductory Level 1 in Youth Work signals the first step in creating a more accessible route into youth work in order to build a stronger sector which meets growing demand. Along with a new Technical Occupational Qualification, at Level 3, the NYA is urging training providers and FE colleges to recognise the value of these new courses to help realise the government’s National Youth Strategy ambitions, which includes providing half a million more young people with access to a trusted adult outside their home by 2035.
Youth workers are central to delivering that ambition, creating safe spaces and fun activities where young people can build skills and confidence, develop their values, form meaningful relationships and feel a stronger sense of belonging in their communities, providing a strong foundation for future success.
The new Level 1 and Level 3 qualifications have been developed with awarding organisations following a qualifications consultation and the publication of the Pathways to Practice report in May 2025, which set out the case for developing a new Standard Qualification Framework (SQF). The NYA’s Workforce Survey shows that that sixty percent of youth workers do not hold recognised qualifications and these new qualifications are designed to equip more workers to progress on career pathways that will help meet the growing demand for high quality youth work.
”"If we want every young person to have access to a trusted adult and the support they need to thrive, we must invest in the workforce that makes this possible. These qualifications will form part of the new Standard Qualifications Framework for Youth Work, helping local areas recruit, train and retain the skilled practitioners needed to deliver the ambitions of the National Youth Strategy."
Kevin JonesHead of Workforce, NYA
The Level 1 Award in Youth Work provides a first step into a career in Youth Work. It introduces the core values, principles and practices that underpin safe, inclusive and effective youth work, including safeguarding, communication, planning and reflective practice.
The Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry in Youth Support Work (Diploma) gives learners the knowledge, skills and workplace experience needed for professional youth support work. Aligned to National Occupational Standard for Youth Work and the Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard for Youth Support Work, it prepares practitioners to work safely and confidently with young people. It will be the required qualifications for those undertaking a Level 3 apprenticeship.
The new SQF, set to launch in the autumn, will provide a clear pathway to learning, making it easier for those already working in the sector, including volunteers, to gain new skills and qualifications. It will also support people with valuable professional and lived experience to enter the youth work workforce. Further new qualifications aligned to the SQF are in development and will be announced in due course.
By creating clearer routes into youth work and supporting more people to gain recognised qualifications, the new SQF will help rebuild local capacity and strengthen the workforce needed to deliver the National Youth Strategy. It will improve the quality and consistency of provision so more young people across England can access the support, opportunities and trusted relationships they need to thrive.
