Studying at Open Colleges means hands-on learning from one of our qualified, passionate trainers like Nicola. If you take on a course in Youth Work (CHC40421 Certificate IV in Youth Work or CHC50421 Diploma of Youth Work), you will benefit from Nicola’s eight years of experience in training the next generation of Youth Workers. Let’s learn more from Nicola about the benefits of online learning, what you learn when studying youth work, the transferable skills you will master and why you should study with Open Colleges. 

“I love being able to watch students progress along their journey knowing they are going to be making a big difference in the lives of young people.”

The Perks Of Online Study

One of the key benefits of studying at Open Colleges is the flexibility and freedom that comes from learning online, in your own time, and at your own pace. For Nicola’s students, the ability to work in their own time and still keep time for life’s important things is what keeps her students engaged and motivated to complete the course. Even though the course is delivered online, there are actually so many chances for collaboration and connection. Nicola recommends you keep in touch on the discussion boards and attend the FAQ or drop-in sessions to meet other students and connect with others who are in the same course and in the same headspace you are in.

“Don’t underestimate the value of having people available to bounce ideas off, stay accountable, and encourage and support them as they go through similar things on their journey. “

Knowledge And Real World Skills

Along with the great foundational knowledge of the Youth Work principles, students taking a course in Youth Work will get a chance to put their theory into practice. They will learn how to engage with people, actively listen, and practice genuine empathy and understanding, all essential Youth Work skills and highly transferable skills that can apply to almost any career path.

Nicola also highlights that learning is a continuum and will continue well after you complete your course.

“The course content is instrumental in helping you understand the youth work industry and to continue growing as a youth worker.”

Expanded Career Opportunities

With a certificate or diploma in Youth Work, you can work in various diverse organisations, such as residential care, school well-being teams, running youth programs at community centres, participating in camps for disengaged youth, working in youth justice, and so much more. With a course in Youth Work under your belt, you gain the foundational learning to be able to pursue further study in mental health, individual support, counselling and other community services.

“The course can lead to further community-related opportunities as students put into practice and gain experience in this field.”

Why You Should Study Youth Work?

Youth Work is both challenging and rewarding. Nicola loves that, for her students, making a difference can come from the smallest of moments, which can have a huge effect on the lives of young people.

‘Youth Work can offer a rewarding chance to make a difference to our young people”