When Sophie decided to take the next step in her youth work journey, she knew she wanted something that would stretch her. She’d already completed her Level 3, but she was ready to go deeper – to understand not just how to deliver great youth sessions, but why youth work matters in the wider picture.
That’s when she began her Degree Apprenticeship in Youth Work.
For Sophie, the biggest difference has been the depth of learning:
“On my Level 3, we talked about safeguarding and the issues young people face,” she explained. “Now we’re looking at legislation, young people’s rights, autonomy, consent, and what it really means when you have to break confidentiality. It makes you think so much more carefully about how conversations affect a young person.”
Alongside weekly lectures and seminars, Sophie balances delivering youth sessions, planning activities, attending meetings, and completing what’s known as learning. Recently, she’s taken on participation work; visiting different youth groups, speaking with young people, and encouraging them to be involved in decision-making. She’s even planned her first trip.
“It’s been really interesting,” she said. “I’m gradually being given more responsibility, which is exciting – and a bit surreal!”
For Sophie, the apprenticeship route has been especially meaningful.
“Uni didn’t work for me before, so I didn’t know if I’d ever get a degree,” she shared. “Now I’ll be fully qualified, and I’ve got a progression route into a Development Worker role. That’s really cool.”
While studying online has its challenges – particularly when it comes to meeting others on the course – Sophie appreciates the flexibility and how directly the learning connects to her day-to-day work. Concepts explored in lectures quickly become part of her real conversations with young people.
“It gives you an advantage,” she said. “You start actively thinking about young people’s rights and informed consent in every interaction. It’s made me more reflective in my practice.”
Sophie’s journey is a brilliant example of what apprenticeships can offer – not just qualifications, but confidence, growth, and a clear pathway forward.
At FACE, we’re proud to support apprentices like Sophie who are committed to developing their skills and making a lasting difference in the lives of young people.
