Career as a Youth Worker

Youth Work is more than just a job—it’s a commitment to empower and uplift young people in Aotearoa. As youth workers, we play a vital role in supporting rangatahi to navigate challenges, build confidence, and reach their full potential.

A career as a youth worker is rooted in relationships, advocacy, and positive youth development. Whether you’re working in youth organisations, schools, health services, or justice settings, Youth Work is about walking alongside young people, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.

If you’re passionate about making a difference, explore the pathways, qualifications, and professional development opportunities available to help you thrive in this rewarding field.

Qualifications

Details of recognised Youth Work qualifications.

Supervision

Supervision provides youth workers with a safe place to reflect on professional development, personal support, organisational and practice issues.

Code of Ethics

An agreed set of guidelines for Youth Work in Aotearoa to ensure that youth work is carried out in a safe, skilled, ethical manner.

Professional Development

Staying informed, responsive, and equipped with the skills needed to support young people in a constantly changing world.

Korowai Tupu

Korowai Tupu is the Professional Association for Youth Work in Aotearoa. It is dedicated to forming genuine relationships with young people, their whānau, and the wider community to promote positive youth development. Youth work is a unique profession, and Aotearoa is a unique nation, which is why Korowai Tupu was designed by youth workers for youth workers to ensure it is an inclusive process for all, recognising experience, qualifications, and training.