Apprenticeships not just for the trades

6 March 2018
Apprenticeships not just for the trades as youth work sector gains its own

“The youth work sector is very excited to see the launch of Careerforce’s new Youth Work Apprenticeship programme,” said Jane Zintl manager of Korowai Tupu o Ara Taiohi, the professional association of youth workers. “As a sector, we’re very committed to the upskilling of the workforce, and this apprenticeship will provide a great qualification pathway for many youth workers.”

Ara Taiohi, the peak body for youth development, launched Korowai Tupu last year, and as advocates of sector development and youth work champions, they are supporters of the Youth Work Apprenticeship programme. Korowai Tupu have contributed strongly to the development of the Youth Work Apprenticeship as a qualification which recognises youth workers and also provides an attractive pathway for school leavers into the sector.

“Young people will often listen to young people, and we need more young people to see that working in the youth work sector can be a very fulfilling, lifelong career option,” added Anya Satyanand, Executive Officer of Ara Taiohi.

Careerforce Apprenticeship Manager, Penny Rogers said, “We’re very appreciative of Ara Taiohi and youth work employers who informed the development of this apprenticeship programme. We are also pleased that it supports the youth work sector’s journey towards professionalisation.”

Youth workers form a critical part of the workforce needed to support positive youth development. Korowai Tupu was launched as the professional association of youth workers, established to amplify the voices of young people and youth workers. The association empowers its members to continue to develop their skills and competencies and provide encouragement to youth workers in getting recognised qualifications to support their practice.

Rogers said, “The new Youth Work Apprenticeship programme provides youth workers with the strategies and tools to support young people to identify goals, address barriers and achieve aspirations.”

The apprenticeship programme developed by Careerforce, the Industry Training Organisation for the health, wellbeing, social and community sectors leads to the award of an NZQA recognised qualification at Level 4. There are funding options available for apprentices including the Careerforce Apprenticeship Kickstart and Government Fees Free.

ENDS

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