Pathways to Practice reflects extensive research, dialogue and helpful challenge around our proposals which have provided the rigour needed to finalise the plans for reform.

We were pleased that 72% of those who participated in the consultation (74% of survey respondents) felt that the qualification pathway needs to change. Through the consultation process we’ve listened carefully and made significant changes to the original proposals in direct response to what we heard to ensure that we are developing a framework that is reflecting the needs of the sector both now and fit for the future.

We are hugely grateful to all those who participated in this process, for providing us with their considered feedback and the critical challenge needed.

We are confident that the resulting framework will ensure that all those with the passion and potential to deliver effective youth work can access a qualification pathway that works for them whilst reinforcing the accreditation of essential skills and alignment with National Occupational Standards.

We are excited about working with our colleagues across the youth work ecosystem to design, pilot and implement the new framework over the next 18 months.

We will also continue to raise the profile of youth work as a valued and skilled profession and to collectively make the case for support and investment in youth work training, recognition and better pay, terms and conditions.