In the first half of 2026 we are offering a range of short half day courses for Youth Workers and those staff and volunteers working with teenagers. The courses are on-line and are free of charge. Places are limited to 15 participants on each course. You can apply for as many sessions as you wish.
Equality, Power and Inclusive Practice
This course consists of two sessions. You need to attend both sessions
Explore diversity and inclusion using intersectionality and anti-oppressive practice. Reflect on your own values, assumptions and positions of power, and build cultural humility for fair, inclusive youth work that challenges inequality.
Monday 19th January 2026 &
Monday 2nd February 2026
9:30am – 1:30pm |
Tutor: Josh Barnbrook
Adolescent Development – A Quick Refresher
An overview of how young people grow and change during adolescence. Explore key developmental tasks and learn how to view behaviour through a developmental lens, understanding supportive, age-appropriate youth work in everyday practice.
Friday 27th February 2026
9:30am – 1:30pm
Tutor: Ariane Hoppler
How the Teenage Brain
Works
Understand how the teenage brain develops and why this affects behaviour. Learn how the prefrontal cortex and limbic system develop at different speeds, and respond in a calm, supportive and trauma-aware way.
Friday 20th March 2026
9:30am – 1:30pm.
Tutor: Ariane Hoppler
New Tools for Working
with Gen Z and Gen
Alpha
Explore how constant online connection, social media, and modern pressures influence young people. Learn creative and digital tools – games, journaling, card
decks, videos – that help young people open up and develop emotional skills.
Friday 24th April 2026
9:30am – 1:30pm
Tutor: Ariane Hoppler
Health, Lifestyle Choices
and Inequality
Explore lifestyle medicine areas: movement, food, sleep, stress, substance use and social connection. Learn practical ways to encourage healthier habits without blame, focusing on positive conversations and motivation.
Monday 27th April 2026
9:30am – 1:30pm
Tutor: Josh Barnbrook
Mindfulness in Youth
Work
Learn mindfulness practices for focus, calmness, self-awareness and emotional regulation. Try grounding exercises, breathing techniques, and reflective
activities suitable for drop-ins, one-to-ones, groups, and residentials.
Friday 8th May 2026
9:30am – 1:30pm.
Tutor: Ariane Hoppler
Spirituality, Awe and
Meaning in Youth Work
Explore moments of ‘awe’ — experience at feel powerful and inspiring. Discover how awe and spirituality give young people
purpose, connection and hope, inclusive of all faiths and non-religious worldviews.
Friday 15th May 2026
9:30am – 1:30pm.
Tutor: Ariane Hoppler
For an application form email robin.konieczny@youthfocuseastandeastmids.org.uk
You can download the brochure here https://youthworktrainingbrochure.lovable.app
Bursary Round 6 is now closed.
We are awaiting news on Round 7 and hope to have an update in January 2026
This initiative aims to support individuals looking to enhance their skills and advance their careers in youth work.
All the courses are funded through the Government’s Training Bursaries scheme.
Participants will receive guidance from experienced facilitators to ensure a comprehensive learning experience.
All the courses will be delivered online, and you will need access to a computer or tablet to participate; the use of mobile phones is not suitable.
Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about the courses or the application process.
For more information contact Robin Konieczny robin.konieczny@youthfocuseastandeastmids.org.uk
