On Friday, 6 December 2024, the LFC Foundation marked a significant milestone, celebrating the remarkable progress of the programme, now midway through its second cohort. The event highlighted achievements, shared success stories, and reinforced the critical role Youth Work Apprenticeships play in regenerating youth services across the city.

The first cohort of the Youth Works programme saw three apprentices progress to Level 6 Youth Work qualifications, equipping them to become fully qualified youth workers. Their achievements underscore the programme’s capacity to foster career development and professional excellence in youth work.

Building on this foundation, the second cohort now boasts 11 apprentices stationed across partner organisations throughout the city including Walton Youth Project, Netherton Park Neighbourhood Centre, Young Person’s Advisory Service (YPAS), Garston Speke Play Adventure and Deysbrook Centre.

In collaboration with Liverpool City Council, this expansion is a testament to the programme's growing impact and commitment to embedding youth work into the fabric of local communities. LFC Foundation apprentices have successfully launched a brand-new youth work provision in the Anfield Ward. This initiative now offers: youth work detached services, targeted intervention programmes, three open-access sessions and school holiday activities.

This provision exemplifies the positive change apprentices can create, addressing local needs and providing consistent support for young people.Darren Simpson of Walton Youth and Community Project spoke at the event about the apprentices' transformative role in growing their community service. Beyond supporting young people, the apprentices have expanded the project's reach to serve community members of all ages, fostering a greater sense of inclusion and belonging.

The event also hosted Kevin Jones, Deputy Director of Youth Work at the National Youth Agency (NYA), who commended the Youth Works programme. He praised its innovative model and measurable success in strengthening youth work in Liverpool. His endorsement highlights the programme as a blueprint for workforce development in the youth work sector.

As the second cohort progresses, the programme continues to demonstrate the profound impact of apprenticeships on communities and the youth work profession. The future of youth work in Liverpool is brighter than ever, thanks to the collective efforts of the LFC Foundation, LCC, and their dedicated apprentices.