If you're someone who finds joy in making a difference in communities, or working with young people to achieve their potential, your career options are abundant. Whether supporting local young people or working in communities across the world, there are many opportunities to find a fullfilling role. From charities to schools, sport academies to creative tutoring organisations, you can have a positive impact on the world every single day. Our BA (Hons) Youth Work and Communities and BSc (Hons) Social Work courses are the ideal preparation for an inspiring career supporting young people.
Youth Work
If you enjoy directly engaging with young people and supporting their development, a career as a youth worker could be your perfect match. At BCU, our BA (Hons) Youth Work and Communities course will provide you with over 200 hours of placement experience. Equipping you with the experience, skills and confidence to help communities make positive decisions in their lives.
You’ll work in settings such as youth centres, schools, and community organisations, running programmes and providing emotional and practical support.
To succeed as a youth worker, you’ll need patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to inspire and empower young people. An ability that stems from having self-confidence and the intention to seek the best for young people. This role is perfect for someone who thrives on building relationships and facilitating growth.
Creative Youth Work
For those with a creative flair, working in creative youth work could be an inspiring career choice. From art classes to drama and music production. Creative youth work is a profound method to help young people express themselves, build confidence, and develop life skills.
You’ll work in youth centres, community programmes, and arts organisations, designing and delivering engaging workshops.
This career requires a combination of creativity, patience, and a passion for using the arts as a tool for empowerment.
Community Development Worker
A community development worker works closely with communities to address local challenges and empower residents to create positive change. You’ll facilitate community projects, manage projects with key stakeholders and support local initiatives.
This role involves working for local authorities, housing associations, and non-profit organisations to improve community resources and promote social inclusion.
To excel in this role, you’ll need strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for advocating on behalf of communities.
School Counsellor
One of your key roles as a BSc (Hons) Social Worker will be in safeguarding vulnerable children and adults, working directly with people to support choice and independence. As a school counsellor, you’ll play a vital role in providing emotional, academic, and career guidance to young people. You’ll support students through personal challenges, helping them develop coping strategies and make informed decisions about their future.
You could work in primary and secondary schools, colleges, or universities, collaborating with teachers and families to ensure students thrive.
This career is ideal if you’re empathetic, a good listener, and passionate about supporting young people through their educational journey.
Sports Development Officer
If you’re passionate about using sports to drive positive change, consider becoming a sports development officer. You’ll design and implement programmes that use physical activity to engage young people, teach teamwork, and build confidence.
Sports development officers often work for local authorities, schools, and charities, focusing on promoting inclusion and healthy lifestyles.
Patience, self-reliance, and the ability to be thorough and pay attention to detail are essential for this career.
If you're interested in working with young people and communities, you may also be interested in our BA (Hons) Working with Children, Young People and Families course.
