The YJB has developed a range of qualifications in youth justice to support the work of youth justice services. The Youth Justice National Qualifications Framework (NQF) aims to promote practice proven to be effective in reducing youth offending.
All youth justice workers, both those who work directly with children and young people and those who manage and support the work, will have access to qualifications appropriate to their role, their previous education and training, and their career aspirations. The skills they acquire will also be transferable across the youth justice and children's sectors.
In addition, the new qualifications will provide recognised professional training for currently unqualified staff and support the entry of volunteer workers into the youth justice workforce.
The National Qualifications Framework includes:
- Professional Certificate in Effective Practice (Youth Justice) [opens in new window], which is run by the Open University [opens in new window] and will provide both new and experienced practitioners with a core professional qualification in youth justice focusing on delivering the Key Elements of Effective Practice
- Foundation Degree in Youth Justice (England and Wales) [opens in new window] is run by the Open University [opens in new window] and aimed at practitioners already working in youth justice, as well as for those looking to move into the field.
- Youth Justice Gateway Programme, comprising a range of access routes into the NQF including:
- the Juvenile Awareness Staff Programme (JASP), developed jointly with the Prison Service
- Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (Wales only)
- Exploring the Youth Justice System: An Introduction.
- Effective Practice In-Service Training (INSET) materials focussing on each of the Key Elements of Effective Practice.
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If you are interested in undertaking the NQF, contact your local workforce development adviser.