The National Youth Agency (NYA) has launched a new Standard Qualification Framework (SQF) to improve career pathways and professional development in youth work, introducing more flexible qualifications for volunteers, practitioners and those with relevant experience. The framework is part of the NYA’s 10-year Workforce Transformation Plan, supporting the Government’s National Youth Strategy, with further qualifications and wider workforce reforms to follow. The first qualification, the Level 1 Award in Youth Work, will launch this autumn as an entry route for new practitioners and volunteers