Youth Support Worker Level 3 Apprenticeship
Various start dates from August 2025

The Youth Support Worker Level 3 Apprenticeship is designed for individuals who are passionate about supporting young people aged 11 to 25. This programme prepares you to work in a variety of settings, helping young people develop personally, socially, and emotionally through informal education and structured support.

As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in a youth work setting while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 18 months and equips you with the skills to plan, deliver, and evaluate youth work programmes that empower young people and promote their voice and participation in society

We have no live vacancies at the moment
You can also find your own employer. If you already have an employer who is willing to take you on as an apprentice, then click the yellow 'Express an Interest' button and we will ask for the employer details as part of the request

You’ll learn how to:

Organise and lead youth activities such as sports, arts, and educational sessions
Support young people through mentoring, coaching, and counselling
Work with vulnerable groups, including young carers and those at risk of offending
Promote inclusion, equality, and youth voice
Apply safeguarding, health and safety, and data protection policies
Collaborate with professionals such as social workers, teachers, and police officers
Manage volunteers, budgets, and funding applications
You’ll also complete the Level 3 Diploma in Youth Work Practice, which includes both mandatory and optional units tailored to your role and interests

There are no formal qualifications needed to start the Youth Support Worker Level 3 Apprenticeship—just a genuine interest in working with young people and a commitment to supporting their development. This programme is ideal for individuals already working in youth services or those looking to begin a career in the sector.

However, some employers may set their own entry requirements. If you have not yet achieved a GCSE Grade 4/C (or equivalent) in English and Maths, you will be required to complete Functional Skills Level 2 in these subjects as part of your apprenticeship. Don’t worry—Bolton College will support you throughout your training

You’ll be assessed throughout the apprenticeship through practical observations, written assignments, and a portfolio of evidence. Your college tutor and employer will help you track your progress and prepare for your final assessment.

At the end of the programme, you’ll complete an End Point Assessment (EPA), which includes:

A practical observation
A professional discussion
A review of your portfolio
These assessments confirm your competence and readiness to work independently as a qualified Youth Support Worker

In the first instance please send a message to href="mailto:apprenticeships@boltoncc.ac.uk">apprenticeships@boltoncc.ac.uk

If you’re interested in this apprenticeship, the first step is to register your interest with Bolton College. This will add you to our mailing list so we can keep you informed about any upcoming apprenticeship vacancies or employer opportunities in your chosen field.

To begin the apprenticeship, you’ll need to secure employment with an organisation willing to support you as an apprentice. While it is your responsibility to find and apply for suitable roles, Bolton College is here to help. We have a dedicated Job Shop located within the college, where you can meet with an Employer Engagement Advisor for tailored support and advice on how to apply for vacancies and prepare for interviews.

Job Shop Opening Times:
Monday – Friday
9:00am – 3:30pm
Email: Job.shop@Boltoncc.ac.uk
Tel: 01204 482182

After completing this apprenticeship, you’ll be qualified to work as a Youth Support Worker, Outreach Worker, or Early Help Practitioner. You may also progress to a Level 4 or 5 qualification in Youth Work, or pursue a degree in youth and community work to become a JNC-recognised professional Youth Worke

We have a range of dedicated support and wellbeing services including FREE travel, financial support, and impartial advice and guidance. Throughout your Apprenticeship, you’ll also receive one-to-one support from your dedicated Work Based Tutor, helping you to achieve your ambitions

We’re an elite College, and part of the University of Bolton Group, offering you a gateway to all of Greater Manchester’s vast range of fantastic opportunities for specialist careers, university degree courses and higher Apprenticeships.

We’ll reward your achievements with trips to The Anderton Outdoor Activity Centre and the opportunity to apply for the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Our £75 million campus offers a refurbished fitness suite and sports hall; Apple Mac suites; libraries, a lecture theatre; hair and beauty salon; and a restaurant, café and canteen.

You’ll also enjoy a wide range of events, including showcases, enterprise activities and cultural celebrations.

Click the yellow ‘Apply’ button on this page to express your interest.

You’ll be asked to set up a Learner Hub account, so that you can track your application. If we dont think you're ready for an Apprenticeship yet, we'll recommend a relevant Study Programme that could eventually lead to the Apprenticeship you're interested in.

If you have any difficulties setting up your Learner Hub account, please email learner.hub@boltoncc.ac.uk

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.