The Level 3 Certificate in Youth Work is composed of 4 mandatory units and 1 optional unit. To achieve the Certificate, the learner must achieve all 5 units.


1. Reflective Practice in a Youth Work Setting
2. Work-based Practice in Youth Work
3. Working with Behaviour that Challenges in Youth Work Settings
4. Group Work within a Youth Work Setting
5. Supervision in a Youth Work Setting


Learners must complete a range of tasks outlined in the assessment criteria and include: Written assignments / task sheets / observation / group and project work.


Learners must record at least 65 hours of placement activities


Learners must complete all units within the same academic year of registration.

Applicants must have achieved the Award in Youth Work Principles Level 2 BEFORE applying for the Certificate in Youth Work Practice Level 3. Application will require a copy of the Award in Youth Work Principles Level 2 certificate.

Entry to the courses is subject to successful application. This can be requested from Youth Community and Playwork Team on the Youth Community and Playwork link of Addysg Oedolion Cymru | Adult Learning Wales website.

Learners will need:
• Literacy skills.
• Communication skills.

Learners will need to:
• Interpret given tasks.
• Provide answers that are clear, logical and understandable.

You must have a DBS to apply for this course. We recommend that you also register with the Update Service. This can be done within 28 days of a new DBS issue. For more information see https://www.gov.uk/dbs-update-service
YCPW need to verify your DBS/Update Service Record. Do you give permission for us to access this record? Yes /No

Placement Requirements:
Before the applications are approved and placement is commenced a current DBS is required, and a signed Placement Agreement Form must be submitted, signed supervisor/line manager who is qualified at level 4 or above.

The Certificate is taught at the equivalent standard as Advanced Level Qualifications.

The purpose of the qualification is to prepare learners for further learning or training and/or develop knowledge and skills in youth work.

Achieving the certificate will enable learners to apply for employment as a Youth Support Worker. This designation is recognised by Joint Negotiation Committee (JNC) and endorsed by Education Training Standards Wales (ETS). Learners may also apply for place to study for Full Professional Youth Worker Qualification at University. Qualification is awarded at completion of Level 6.

You will need a laptop with access to the internet. If you do not have this and are successful in your application, Addysg Oedolion Cymru | Adult Learning Wales can support you with this to be able to access the course.

You will be provided with a hardcopy course workbook with handouts and resources for the course.

You will also need to have arranged a youth work placement where you will complete your 65 hours of youth work practice during the course.