Voices of Youth Work: A Case Study in Qualification and Impact

Why did you want to do the qualification? - I wanted to be able to walk into a room and support my young people without others questioning my expertise. This course gave me the confidence to do this. When I get questioned on anything, I know now what I am talking about - the qualification backs this up. I also wanted to gain experience to further my career.

Did you enjoy the course? - I did. It was a labour of love. I blocked out time in the diary to attend sessions for me and my development. I enjoyed time away from work to invest in myself. I liked the in-person lessons, the connections I made in a safe space.

What did you learn from the course? - Sharing information with each other - professional examples from other learners and Ternaya. I realised I could achieve things through having support from Ternaya.

“I learned the value of giving young people a voice and supporting them to make decisions and being led by them.”

I still often refer to Hart's ladder to see where young people are. Without the course I wouldn't of confidently be able to step back and have young people lead - I would have felt like I had to lead.

Did you have any struggles and if so, how did you overcome them? - I had a few personal events occur during the course. I also did not save two of the units so had to re-write them, which was a lot. I overcame it allowing myself time and Ternaya was really supportive. When I came back online, Ternaya allowed me to just be in the class and listen but not engage in discussions. I felt massively supported by Ternaya, the group as well as my employer. Ternaya was really understanding and supportive.

What impact has completing the course had on you and your work with young people? - I have completed Level 2 counselling and now doing Level 3 which I would not of had the confidence to do before. I done online course (online self-taught) but didn't take it in as just reading and no support. The way I now deliver sessions and 1-2-1's has changed - it is more young person led. If something goes wrong, I am now able to reflect and adapt. I always have activities in the back of my mind.

“I am now pushing forward on my career path.”

“I would tell them that youth work is a career that can demand a lot from you, but also can give a lot to you.”

This was the first time I done any education since school and it gave me the confidence to do more. It made me realise that I could achieve with good people around me and the right mindset. It was intense, but this worked for me. I am so glad I did it. Ternaya was always accessible, and I got in-depth feedback on all units with great guidance and structure.