How the University of Sunderland is inspiring the next generation of youth workers

Published on 12, March, 2025

Employers and professionals had the chance to explore what the future of the youth work sector could look like as part of an event held at the University of Sunderland. 

The event, Building Futures in Youth Work held at Hope Street Xchange, saw both employers and professionals help inspire the next generation of youth workers by exploring the different ways of entering the sector. 

Guest speakers had the chance to discuss the changing landscape of community and youth work and what skills are needed to shape the careers of future youth workers. 

Shaun Newton, CEO of Easington Lane Community Access Point who also studies on the Senior Leader Degree Apprenticeship at the University said: "Bringing together representatives of the VCSE sector for an event such as this is not merely an academic exercise but is instrumental in determining the current and future needs of Youth and Community work. 

“Events such as these help cultivate networking opportunities and collaborative approaches essential for youthwork, forming alliances and partnerships that can lead to impactful projects in our local communities.  

“The opportunity to undertake an apprenticeship across the various levels including up to Level 7 provides great opportunities for most people in employment whether that be to advance in their chosen career or to embark on a new career.” 

Jon Niblo, Chief Executive of NE Youth, said: “This was such an important and timely event for youth sector employers, and it was a great opportunity to engage with key stakeholders with shared vision and values. 

“It’s incredibly important to create meaningful pathways for existing staff in the sector and to promote youth work as a career.” 

Guests also heard from a range of learners who study Community and Youth Work at the University and the different ways that students can get the skills they need to work in the sector. 

Denise Brooks, a Community and Youth Work Degree apprentice at the University, said: “I have worked with young people for 26 years in my role as Manager at Shotton Community Hub and previously at Shotton Community Centre but had never thought I would have the opportunity to go to University.

“Now, because of the apprenticeship scheme, I am able to do so and was eager to encourage others to follow this path.

“What I learn, I put into practice in my workplace and I'm feeling much more confident in handling the challenges sometimes involved in working with young people.”

The University launched its advanced, higher and degree apprenticeships programme in 2017. 

Starting with just a handful of employers, the University scheme has grown year on year, now partnering with more than 150 organisations. 

Dr Ben Middleton, Academic Dean of the Faculty of Education, Society and Creative Industries at the University, said: “We're proud to offer a fully accredited degree apprenticeship that provides a crucial pathway for aspiring youth workers.

“With the Skills England report projecting significant demand for this profession by 2035, this programme is more important than ever in shaping the future of youth work.”

You can find out more about the University’s Community and Youth Work Apprenticeship at our upcoming information event here.

If you are a prospective apprentice or an employer who wants to find out more about our apprenticeships, register your interest here. 

>