Welcome to our Continuing Professional Development catalogue, below you will find all of the CPD courses we currently have for you to enrol on.

Note* The CPD courses in this catalogue refer to British Legislation and the National Occupational Standards and English Youth Work Policy, if you are accessing our training courses from outside England you will need to apply the legislation and occupational standards that pertain to the country you work in.

Our CPD courses are delivered through the NYA Academy Online Learning Platform. You can access this system using the same login details as your Youth Work One account. If you do not currently have an Youth Work One account, please click below to create one for free.

Level explanation

CPD courses that are accessible regardless of your existing youth work understanding.

CPD courses that go into more depth than beginner level courses. Learners would benefit from a basic understanding of youth work.

CPD courses that require an existing knowledge of youth work to properly complete.

Our latest course

Introduction to Participation

Our featured course

Safeguarding in a youth work setting (ATP)

Our CPD Catalogue

Below is a bank of our current free CPD offering. Please simply click the title of each course to find out more and get your Youth Work One account registered.

An Introduction to Risk Assessment for the Youth Sector

An Introduction to Risk Assessment for the Youth Sector

Description

This short course follows our comprehensive training course on risk assessments, tailored specifically for staff engaged in youth work. This course is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct a youth work health and safety risk assessment, aligning with your organisation’s legal duty of care.

The safety and well-being of both young people and staff involved in youth work are paramount in delivering high-quality programs. Please note that this module does not cover individualised risk assessments for young people, which are integrated into your organisation’s broader safeguarding procedures. Your employer bears the responsibility of furnishing additional information, instruction, training, and supervision as needed for your specific role and responsibilities.

This course has been designed to encompass a wide spectrum of youth work scenarios, in collaboration with the Safeguarding and Risk Management Hub and in response to the Safeguarding Standards for the Youth Work Sector.

This course offers a practical learning experience. It features a worked scenario and a community project involving a sponsored litter cleanup along a canal, developed by Pharos Response in collaboration with the National Youth Agency (NYA).

Cost

Free

Level

Basic

Basic introduction to Safeguarding for Volunteer Youth Workers

Basic introduction to Safeguarding for Volunteer Youth Workers

Description

Welcome to our basic course on safeguarding, tailored specifically for volunteers and learners embarking on their journey into youth work. This course serves as a foundational exploration of safeguarding principles and practices. For those actively engaged with young people on a regular basis, we recommend our intermediate course, ‘Safeguarding in Youth Work Setting’, which will be released in late-2023.

Throughout this course, we will provide you with an overview of safeguarding, emphasising its vital importance in creating a safe and secure environment for young people. Please be aware that certain activities within this course will require you to gather specific information and return to complete your training.

  • During this course, we will delve into several key topics, including:
  • Establishing professional boundaries when working with young people.
  • Exploring various forms of abuse and understanding their characteristics.
  • Investigating different forms of exploitation and recognizing their characteristics.
  • Gaining knowledge of your organisation’s policies and procedures, particularly in identifying your safeguarding lead.
  • Exploring your own role and responsibilities in safeguarding

Please be aware that the subjects explored in this course may evoke strong emotions in certain individuals. If you feel emotionally impacted, you are encouraged to pause and seek the support you require. You are welcome to resume the course at your own pace when you are ready. Should you find yourself in need of someone to confide in or seek assistance, we recommend reaching out to your supervisor or a trusted colleague for guidance and support. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to assist you throughout your learning journey.

Cost

Free

Level

Basic

Detached and Outreach Youth Work

Detached and Outreach Youth Work

Description

This comprehensive intermediate course is designed for professionals working with young people across various settings, especially those engaged in or contemplating detached and outreach youth work. This course consists of four informative chapters, each providing valuable insights into the intricacies of detached and outreach youth work.

You will explore the essence of detached and outreach work, including its purpose and the essential skills and knowledge required to practice safely and effectively. We delve into the significance of power dynamics and relationships within detached and outreach settings and how these factors impact your work.

Throughout this course, you will find reflective points, exercises, and tasks designed to enhance your learning and application of key concepts. We offer a range of resources and toolkits to support your professional development in youth work practice.

This transformative learning experience will strengthen your expertise in detached and outreach youth work. Enrol today to become a more informed and effective advocate for young people in detached and outreach settings, ensuring that your practice is both safe and impactful.

Cost

Free

Level

Intermediate

Introduction to Participation

Introduction to Participation

Description

This basic-level course invites you to embark on a brief yet insightful exploration of the fundamental principles of Participation. This course is all about understanding how to include young people in decision-making. We’ll explore ways to make sure their opinions don’t just get heard but make a positive impact.

Delve into the fundamental values and principles of youth work by actively promoting Article 12 of the UNCRC, emphasising the significance of young people’s rights and how they are engaged in the process. 

Learn about the different models and approaches, paving the way for the development of authentic participatory practices in your youth work. Exploring how young people experienceParticipation through interactive learning experiences and gaining insights into the barriers hindering youth participation and how to overcome them, will enable you to foster a more inclusive environment.

The course will also provide you with access to a curated list of valuable resources and further learning opportunities. 

Embark on this introductory journey and empower yourself with the knowledge to champion youth participation! 

Cost

Free

Level

Basic

Introduction to Trauma Informed Practice

Introduction to Trauma Informed Practice

Description

In this short course, we delve into the impact of trauma and its far-reaching implications on our mental and emotional well-being. Designed to empower participants with invaluable insights, this course unravels the intricacies of trauma, shedding light on why it leaves indelible marks on our lives.

Whether you work directly with young people, alongside them, or within the communities supporting them, this course encourages a holistic understanding of trauma’s impact, both on those you serve and on your own well-being. Through a compassionate lens, we not only explore the nuanced signs of trauma but also equip you with the essential tools to respond empathetically.

Throughout your journey in this course, you will encounter reflective moments, prompting you to consider how trauma resonates through the lives of young people. Whether you work directly with young people, alongside them, or within the communities supporting them, this course encourages a holistic understanding of trauma’s impact.

Developed in partnership with young people’s mental health charity 42nd Street, this course blends expertise and real-world experience to provide you with a comprehensive foundation for recognising, understanding, and addressing trauma, all while emphasising the importance of self-care to safeguard your own mental health in the process.

Please be aware that the subjects explored in this course may evoke strong emotions in certain individuals. If you feel emotionally impacted, you are encouraged to pause and seek the support you require. You are welcome to resume the course at your own pace when you are ready. Should you find yourself in need of someone to confide in or seek assistance, we recommend reaching out to your supervisor or a trusted colleague for guidance and support. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to assist you throughout your learning journey.

Cost

Free

Level

Basic

Managing a Budget Within a Youth Work Setting

Managing a Budget Within a Youth Work Setting

Description

This comprehensive short course provides the essential information, knowledge and skills required to ensure that financial management is effective, a crucial aspect of legal and governance responsibilities.

This module is thoughtfully designed for youth workers who hold varying levels of financial responsibility. Whether you’re involved in budget development, monitoring, funding proposals, or financial reporting to stakeholders, this course provides the basic knowledge and skills to excel in these areas.

Through this course, you’ll become proficient in recognising and comprehending basic financial terminology, identifying key components of robust financial processes and systems, and conducting risk assessments on your organisation’s financial procedures.

Furthermore, you will delve into case studies and model action plans to equip you with the understanding needed to prevent financial challenges, detect them when they arise, and develop effective contingency plans.

While this course serves as an excellent starting point, it’s important to note that if financial management and monitoring constitute a significant part of your role, additional training may be required.

Cost

Free

Level

Basic

Safeguarding in a Youth Work Setting (Accredited Training Programme) ▼

Safeguarding in a Youth Work Setting

– Accredited Training Programme (ATP)

Description

This comprehensive intermediate course is designed for trusted adults across a range of young people’s settings. This course consists of three informative chapters that will provide you with the essential knowledge and understanding required to safeguard young people.

You will gain a comprehensive understanding of child protection and safeguarding definitions and be able to recognise the forms of abuse and exploitation and their indicators. This learning will be underpinned by an extensive look at legislation, and organisational safeguarding practice, policies, and procedures.

You will explore the roles of responsibilities of youth works settings and be able to confidently identify support agencies.  This will include understanding duty of care, position of trust and the development of boundaried relationships with young people.  Whilst exploring the values and principles of youth work, you will delve into cultural difference and diversity and how your personal beliefs and values can inform practice.

In order to successfully complete this Accredited Training Programme you must complete all elements of the course as instructed, this includes three quizzes with an expected pass rate of 80%. Remember, don’t worry if you don’t make 80% the first time, you can revisit the course chapters and the quizzes. 

Your award will be sent directly from the awarding organisation within a month of completion.

Cost

£30 (including VAT)

Level

Intermediate

Safeguarding in a Youth Work Setting ▼

Safeguarding in a Youth Work Setting

Description

This comprehensive intermediate course is designed for trusted adults across a range of young people’s settings. This course consists of three informative chapters that will provide you with the essential knowledge and understanding required to safeguard young people. 

You will learn about child protection and safeguarding definitions and be able to recognise the forms of abuse and exploitation and their indicators. This learning will be underpinned by an extensive look at legislation, and organisational safeguarding practice, policies, and procedures.

You will explore the roles of responsibilities of youth works settings and be able to confidently identify support agencies. This will include understanding duty of care, position of trust and the development of boundaried relationships with young people.  Whilst exploring the values and principles of youth work, you will delve into cultural difference and diversity and how your personal beliefs and values can inform practice. 

Enrol today to become amore informed and effective trusted adult that has safeguarding at the forefront their practice.

Cost

Free

Level

Intermediate

Safer Environments and Activities

Safer Environments and Activities

Description

This comprehensive short course is designed to empower youth workers with essential knowledge and practical skills in ensuring the safety and well-being of young people.

In this course, we delve into the critical aspects of Health & Safety obligations and risk management, providing valuable insights to help organisations fulfil their responsibilities effectively. We will start by examining your organisation’s health and safety policy, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of its scope and coverage.

Throughout this module, you will gain a solid grasp of:

  • The legal framework surrounding Health and Safety and Risk Management.
  • The art of conducting risk assessments and their effective management.
  • Investigating accidents and near misses.
  • Your specific duties as a youth work organisation concerning Health and Safety.
  • The significance of a Health and Safety Policy and practical applications.
  • A dynamic approach to creating safer environments and activities for young people.

Moreover, this course will support you in crafting your own health and safety policy tailored to your organisation’s needs, guiding you on its structure and the importance of periodic reviews. Please note it also provides links to the HSE website for additional support and advice on Health and Safety.

In addition to this, you will also be provided with relevant materials and links that you can explore at your convenience to enhance your learning journey.

Cost

Free

Level

Basic

Setting up your safeguarding culture

Setting up your safeguarding culture

Description

This short course is designed to empower youth workers who are embarking on their journey into safeguarding or seeking guidance on establishing safeguarding practices. This course is also invaluable for those who have recently founded a youth group and wish to evaluate and enhance their organisation’s safeguarding culture.

Throughout this learning experience, we will follow the journey of Alex, a dedicated youth worker who is eager to launch a local youth group focused on supporting 11–13-year-olds. This course equips you to:

  • Articulate the purpose and significance of safeguarding.
  • Identify the essential components for developing a robust and effective safeguarding culture.
  • Adapt your safeguarding practices to various settings, including on, offline, or blended youth work.
  • Advocate for youth involvement in shaping safeguarding cultures, ensuring their voices are heard.

Key topics covered include the purpose and definitions of safeguarding, the five principles for cultivating a strong safeguarding culture, considerations related to age and environment, the crucial role of young people in safeguarding development, and navigating policies, procedures, and governance requirements.

Cost

Free

Level

Basic

Supporting Young People who are Not in Employment, Education or Training

Supporting Young People who are Not in Employment,
Education or Training

Description

This basic course outlines the knowledge and skills required to support young people who are Not in Employment, Education, or Training (NEET) or who have been excluded from school. Learners should have access to a real work environment to get the most from this course.

This course is suitable for those working across the youth sector and youth workers who wish to learn more about working with young people who are not in employment, education, or training. This course focuses on how youth work can support young people who are not in employment, education, or training (NEET) and those who are most at risk of not successfully transitioning to employment, education and training, more specifically young people who have been excluded from school.

The course pre-read has been developed to provide the learner with some historical context, including links to key policies, an explanation of key terms and theoretical concepts and a documentary film that looks at the subject in depth from a young person’s perspective. This will provide the learner with the basics required to explore the subject in greater depth.

You will explore:

  • How youth work can support young people in recognising the advantages of education, employment, or training and help them achieve their goals.
  • Gain insights into barriers affecting young people, including those excluded from school, access to employment and training challenges, and the impact on their well-being.
  • Discover available community support services and learn how to assist young people in accessing information, guidance, and their rights.

Cost

Free

Level

Basic

Supporting young Gypsies, Roma, and Travellers

Supporting young Gypsies, Roma, and Travellers

Description

This advanced groundbreaking 9-part series on supporting young Gypsies, Roma and Travellers has been created by the NYA who have created this course in partnership with Open Doors Education and Training (www.odet.org.uk), a sister organisation of The Traveller Movement.

Throughout this series, you’ll delve into critical topics, including debunking myths and stereotypes, gaining a deep understanding of Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities, addressing barriers to equal participation, and combatting marginalisation. We emphasise the importance of rights-based practice, inclusive youth work, and effective community engagement approaches. Moreover, we will examine participation barriers and highlight examples of best practices.

This course incorporates voiceovers recorded by young Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller individuals who actively contribute to Open Doors and The Traveller Movement projects.

Expect an engaging and interactive learning experience that you can complete at your own pace. Additional resources are provided to support your journey in developing youth work that is sensitive and effective in engaging with Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller communities.

Cost

Free

Level

Advanced

Working with Young People – Media Literacy and Digital Youth Work

Media Literacy and Digital Youth Work

Description

This dynamic intermediate course is rooted in the principles of informal and non-formal education, as well as the fundamental tenets of youth work practice, including empowerment, equality, participation, and voluntary engagement. This meticulously designed course empowers youth workers and professionals in the youth sector to excel in their roles, particularly in the areas of media literacy and the digital realm.

Throughout this course, we delve into the digital landscape, unravel complex digital concepts, to enable youth workers to effectively safeguard young people, and confidently develop and deliver media literacy and digital youth work activity. You will be immersed in a diverse tapestry of real-world examples and invaluable resources tailored to the digital milieu. The goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively safeguard, engage and inspire young people in the digital age.

Enrol today and embark on a transformative learning experience that will empower you to make a lasting impact on the lives of the young people you serve, both in physical and digital spaces.

Cost

Free

Level

Intermediate

Young People’s Transition to Independence  

Young People’s Transition to Independence 

Description

In this short course, we delve into the essential skills required to effectively support and collaborate with young people during their transition to independence. Trusted adults play a pivotal role in guiding young people through their journey to adulthood, a period marked by various challenges and experiences. As such, this course is suitable for anyone with a genuine interest in young people’s transitions.

Throughout this course, we explore the relative nature of independence, recognising that it varies according to each young person’s stage of development, understanding, and abilities. We investigate the reasons some young individuals may struggle with independence and why a staged approach is beneficial to this process.

Furthermore, we delve into the significance of development plans in supporting the transition to independence and emphasise the importance of working collaboratively with young people to identify their strengths and areas for growth, employing a strength-based approach to enhance this journey.

Sign up to this short course to become a more effective advocate for young people’s transition to independence. Enrol today to equip yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to support and empower the next generation as they navigate the path to adulthood.

Cost

Free

Level

Basic

Youth Work Pro: Developing Your Skill Set  

Youth Work Pro: Developing Your Skill Set

Description

This is a collection of 3 courses to develop your skill set to deliver activities about literacy, numeracy and life skills with young people.

Developing literacy with young people

This short course focuses on how to develop literacy activities with young people. Unlock the power of language and critical thinking with our engaging basic course designed to transform your approach to working with young people.

You will explore the fundamental role of functional skills while gaining an understanding of literacy levels and their various indicators. We’ll shed light on the profound impact of low literacy levels on young people, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue. You’ll learn how to develop effective resources and programmes to promote literacy and critical thinking.

To enhance your learning journey, we provide additional reading materials and valuable links to useful resources.

Developing numeracy with young people

This short course focuses on how to develop numeracy activities with young people. The transformative potential of numeracy in your role as a youth worker with our tailored short course designed to equip you with essential skills for supporting numeracy and financial independence among young people. This course is thoughtfully crafted to contextualise numeracy within the unique strengths and needs of both the youth worker and young people, providing an effective learning experience.

Throughout this course, we will guide you in aligning your knowledge with the strengths of the young people you work with, fostering a deeper understanding of how numeracy can be a valuable tool in youth work. Your journey will involve the development of crucial understanding that not only promote economic literacy but also empower young individuals on their path to financial independence.

In addition to this, we will explore the various barriers to progression faced by young people, delve into motivation to improve numeracy, and address common issues that arise in youth work settings.

Life Skills

This short course takes you on a transformative journey in youth work, where we explore the dynamic world of Life Skills and their role during adolescence. Our course is designed to empower youth workers with the knowledge and tools to recognise Life Skills as versatile assets, essential for transitional development.

Throughout this course, you will not only develop a deep understanding of how Life Skills are transferable, but you will also acquire the expertise to nurture these skills, enabling young individuals to thrive. We will uncover innovative ways to integrate communication, teamwork, and presentation skills into your youth work approach, fostering growth and empowerment.

Moreover, you will learn to adapt your skills to various settings, including informal environments, and craft activities that are not only educational but also enjoyable, providing young people with exploratory learning experiences.

Cost

Free

Level

Basic

Having trouble accessing this content? Contact Academy@nya.org.uk

Coming soon

We are currently working on new courses. Please stay tuned and check back soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Content Questions

How old should you be to access our training?

To create an account, you must be a minimum of 14 years of age. This is due to Data Protection Law which requires parental consent for those under 13. However, the majority of the courses are aimed at 16 plus year olds. 

Content which may be involve emotive content or explicit content will include a content warning at the start of the course.

How much do the courses cost to access?

Cost of courses vary, the majority of courses are free to access.

Who is the training suitable for?

Much of the content listed is aimed at youth workers or those who are working with young people, this could include the wider young people’s sector e.g., health, uniformed sector, arts & sport amongst others.

Courses are also suitable for those working with young people across a range of complimentary professional environments i.e., education, social care and so on.

Some courses will be suitable to young leaders aged 14 years plus, please ensure you have checked the suitability of the course.

The courses are written in the context of the laws, regulations and standards in England, whilst it is permitted to access this content if you are outside of this context, some content may not be accurate to your own context.

How do I access a course?

Please visit the CPD Catalogue to access our CPD courses. To enquire about completing an accredited course please contact Academy@NYA.org.uk.

Once you have signed up you will be able to access the course content, instructions and technical guidance.

The starting point of all courses is the introduction, followed by the course content and learning outcomes.

You should then navigate through the course following all instructions, courses can be accessed using a variety of devices.

Are the CPD course qualifications?

Non accredited courses:
You cannot gain a qualification through the courses located on the CPD catalogue. However, you will receive a certificate of completion which can be added to your CPD portfolio.

What is the difference between Basic, Intermediate and Advanced?

Basic – CPD courses that are accessible regardless of your existing youth work understanding.

Intermediate – CPD courses that go into more depth than beginner level courses. Learners would benefit from a basic understanding of youth work.

Advanced – CPD courses that require an existing knowledge of youth work to properly complete. Please read the course information to assess whether the course is right for you, this will be based on your experience, current level of training and theme.

What course credentials do you offer?

All courses enable you to earn a Certificate of Completion. You can use these to share your achievements although they do not carry any formal accreditation.

The courses are labelled Basic, Intermediate and Advanced and vary in length and complexity, learners should read every page of a course, undertake tasks and pass the compulsory online quizzes to receive the Certificate of Completion.

Some NYA courses carry a free digital badge this is awarded in addition to a Statement/Certificate of Completion. NYA branded digital badges do not carry any formal credits but enable you to demonstrate interest in a subject and commitment to your personal development and are used to in CVs and ePortfolios. You can show your digital badges to others by sharing them on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn and by making them public (should you choose) on your social media.

How do I get my statement /certificate of completion?

Once you have enrolled in the course and have completed all required tasks, you will be able to access and download a Certificate of Completion for the course you have completed. A copy will also be emailed to you.

Will completed courses be added to my Academy CPD profile?

All certificates you have been awarded can be found in the section “My Certificates” on your profile page.

Can completed courses be counted towards my Youth Work Register professional profile as part of the annual CPD requirement?  

Yes, course can be added to your Youth Work Register profile as part of your commitment to CPD.

How can I access further reading materials?

A range of resource links and downloadable materials will provide in support of each course.  Further resources and learning can be accessed via Youth Work One.

How can I further develop my learning?

The NYA Academy delivers a range of accredited courses with qualifications ranging from level 2 to level 4. All our courses are accredited via the Skills and Education group. Some of the courses we deliver are JNC recognised. Further details of our courses can be found here.

Visit ‘Becoming a Youth Worker’ to find out about the professional development pathways. 

Visit Youth Work One to find out more about the range of training on offer.

Can I speak to someone about the course?

If you have any queries, please contact Academy@Nya.org.uk

You will also be given the opportunity to complete a feedback form at the end of each course – this process assists us to understand what works well, the areas we could improve upon and the need for new courses.

Privacy and accessibility

The NYA’s Privacy policy can be found here.

How do I update my profile?

To make changes to your profile you will need to update your details on Youth Work One, The NYA Academy Online Learning Platform will then update your details the next time you log in.

How do I delete my account?

Your account can be deleted upon request by emailing Academy@NYA.org.uk. Please allow up to 5 days for this to take effect.

Technical Questions

What kind of device do I need to access courses?

The NYA Online learning platform supports the use of a range of devices including, PC’s, Laptops, Mobile Phones and Tablets.

Whilst all the above devices are supported, we recommend using a PC or Laptop for the best learning experience.

Why isn’t content working?

Content not working can be caused by a wide range of things and so it is hard to give a definitive answer. If you are struggling to get content to work, please email Academy@nya.org.uk, telling us what is not working for you and what device you are using. A member of the Academy support team will then help troubleshoot your issue.

How do I sign up for an Academy account?

To create an account you will need to sign up to Youth Work One. You can then select the course you would like to complete from our CPD catalogue here or use the built in shop on the NYA Academy Online Learning Platform which can be found here.

What do I do if I have issues logging in?

If you have issue logging in, please contact Academy@NYA.org.uk, a member of the Academy support team will then help troubleshoot your issue.

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