Adult guidance worker : Entry requirements

This area of work is open to graduates qualified in all subject areas. Your subject of study is less important than having the right personal qualities and evidence of real commitment to, and interest in, the fields of education, training and employment and the needs of adult learners.

Entry without a degree or HND is possible for those with relevant experience who are prepared to train on the job.

After gaining some relevant experience, many graduate entrants go on to complete a professional qualification, such as the Qualification in Careers Guidance (QCG) awarded by the Institute of Career Guidance (ICG) . Postgraduate training in counselling, teaching or social work is also relevant.

Other graduates start by working in a related field, such as information management or community work, and often gain additional experience in a voluntary capacity while undertaking NVQ qualifications in information, advice and guidance (IAG). This is often a feasible route for graduates who are unable to undertake the QCG. A Level 4 NVQ has become a common baseline qualification for posts in the field.

Guidance companies, such as Connexions Direct and others based in large urban areas, sometimes offer trainee posts open to people with relevant experience and suitable personal skills and qualities. Training in careers guidance plus some initial experience may lead to opportunities in adult guidance.

Pre-entry experience is essential and work in any of the following areas would be relevant:

• education;
• community work;
• mainstream careers work;
• welfare advice;
• human resources;
• counselling;
• social work.

Voluntary experience is just as valuable as employed experience and will provide clear evidence of commitment. Your local branch of the National Association for Voluntary and Community Action (NAVCA) is a good place to start initial enquiries about opportunities.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• communication and interpersonal skills;
• the ability to establish a rapport with clients;
• presentation and facilitation skills;
• listening skills;
• the ability to work well as part of a team, but also to work on your own and using your initiative;
• organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively;
• administrative skills, including writing reports, maintaining accurate records and using IT;
• the ability to research and manage large amounts of information;
• commitment to the principles and practice of equal opportunities.

This is an area where work and life experience are valued and the role is a second or even third career for many people.

Competition for jobs may be stiff. Keep up to date with current issues and read relevant publications and key websites to help improve your chances. Consider joining a professional association, such as the ICG, as a student member and, if you know which area of the UK you wish to work in, start networking by attending events and meetings.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.