Youth Work Courses & Qualifications

From induction to postgraduate level, find the right training opportunity for wherever you are in your youth work journey.

There are courses and qualifications in youth work from initial induction right through to postgraduate level.

Youth work training and qualifications are based on the National Occupational Standards for Youth Work and the CLD Competences which set out what youth workers need to know, understand and be able to do to fulfil their role effectively.

Most qualifications include a practice element, as it’s important to be able to put your skills into practice and reflect on your approach as part of your learning and development as a youth worker.

Below are a range of examples of youth work qualifications. The courses include work-based, part-time and flexible routes. Each qualification is listed under its approximate SCQF Level.

Where we have linked to the SQA website you can find out where this course is offered by searching the ‘Where can you take this course?’ section.

How can I gain a professional qualification? 

To become professionally qualified in youth work you will complete a degree level qualification that is approved by the CLD Standards Council for Scotland. These are listed at SCQF Levels 9, 10 and 11 below. 

The CLD Standards Council is the professional body for Community Learning and Development (the wider field that includes youth work) and approves courses at all levels.  

Whatever level of training you have, and whether you are volunteering or working in youth work, you can register to become a member of the CLD Standards Council (our professional body).  

If you have an approved qualification from England, Wales, Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland then your qualification is recognised in Scotland through a mutual recognition agreement within the Joint Education and Training Standards for Youth Work group. 

Want us to list the qualification you're offering or discuss training options? Get in touch with Liz Green our Workforce & Practice Manager