Youth work adds to the formal educational experiences of young people in school or college by offering an educational programme in informal settings such as youth clubs, street corners, parks and cafes. Youth Workers may also work in schools and colleges.
The youth work programme aims to be challenging, developmental and enjoyable. It seeks to enable young people to make informed decisions about their ownlives and aims to contribute to their personal and social development.
Youth Workers will use a range of methods in their work with young people. They might run discussion groups, organise activities with young people, take young people on residential weekends, use arts or music or drama to encourage youngpeople to express themselves.
Youth Workers spend time talking and listening to young people. This contact offers workers the opportunity to explore a wide range of issues with young people. These may include issues such as health, drugs, racism, housing, employment and school. They will support young people in having a voice in their communities.
