Quality Standards in Youth Work

Tomorrow’s Ireland...Today

Quality Standards in Youth Work

A work in progress


Introduction A brief introduction Why implement a QF? The process The challenges The framework

aim; ethos; structure; process; dealing with difficulties

Learning Outcomes / benefits The future


Why implement a quality framework?

YWI Strategic Priorities: Organisational Development Practice Development “Promoting a culture of

continuous improvement” Government policy:

Youth Work Act 2001; NYWDP 2003-2007 – “to put in

place mechanisms for enhancing professionalism and ensuring quality standards in youth work”


QSF Development Process

A number of consultative panels of stakeholders i.e. young people, volunteers and frontline youth workers were established to inform, advise and support the development of the standards and the subsequent implementation of the framework.

The work of the consultative panels fed into and was overseen by a Quality Core Group, made up of youth workers, managers and Board members.

The development and implementation of the framework has been guided by the principles of volunteerism, participation and equality.


The Challenges Logistics

A lengthy process Allocation of

resources Practitioners

Sales Job Bite-size pieces Ethos


A work in progress Evolving - we are all learning A new area of work

For funders For organisations

implementing quality standards

For practitioners it’s both a challenge and an

opportunity For young people

understanding it and accessing information on it.


The Framework

Measure, improve and maintain their performance

Develop systems of, and a culture of, continuous review

Involve young people in the planning, delivery and evaluation of services

Provide quality youth services to young people

The Youth Work Ireland Quality Standards Framework aims to supportorganisations that are providing youth services to:

Tomorrow’s Ireland...TodayEthos

Developmental The framework has been implemented

as a developmental tool The focus is on supporting the

organisation to grow and improve through engagement in the assessment process.

In preparing for assessment the organisation develops a culture of reflection and of continuous improvement.

Peer-LedYoung people, Volunteers, Youth Workers,

Managers and Administrators from throughout the organisation are central to the ongoing development and implementation of the framework.

Tomorrow’s Ireland...TodayStructure

A comprehensive framework with 37 individual standards grouped into 4 Tranches (sections):

Tomorrow’s Ireland...TodayAssessment Process

Peer-Assessment - a team of youth work practitioners, managers, and administrators carry out the peer-assessment, verifying evidence to support the claims made in the self-assessment. There are three potential outcomes Award Recommended; Award Recommended Pending; Award Not Recommended.

Quality Improvement Plan - regardless of outcome the organisation will come away with an action plan highlighting areas for ongoing development, growth and improvement.

The assessment process has 3 phases: Self-Assessment - the Local Youth Service engages the whole organisation in measuring

itself against the standards


Dealing with difficulties

Preparation = Prevention

Right of reply Appeals process

Tomorrow’s Ireland...TodayLearning

• Challenges– Managing Growth– Recording Practice; – Mainstreaming Best

Practice

Strengths Participation Programme design,

implementation & review Financial Management Promoting positive

images of young people Organisational

Development


Benefits

Regardless of the outcome of the assessment process, entering into the process has led to improvement & change within organisations

Inclusive preparation has strengthened organisations and has helped to imbed a culture of continuous improvement

The standards framework assists youth services in creating and communicating clear expectations and guidelines regarding youth work practice

The Youth Work Ireland Quality Standards Framework has informed and influenced the development of a national framework in Ireland


Future

Review and development The role of young people in the QSF? QSF for clubs / projects Progression – Minimum to Excellence External Validation Integration of Frameworks

Quality Standards in Youth Work

Documents

Transcript of Quality Standards in Youth Work