Community development worker : Training

Ongoing training is essential in community work and usually occurs on the job or as part-time study to gain a recognised qualification. Since projects and communities vary so much, community development workers must constantly develop new skills, update old ones and acquire specific knowledge. Training provision varies depending on the employer, but there are likely to be opportunities to develop relevant skills.

The voluntary sector is especially rich in interesting and relevant training opportunities, including accredited training programmes which are available at colleges and other learning centres. It is possible to take National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) or Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) in Community Work, and City & Guilds  offer related courses throughout the UK.

Social services and other organisations employing community development workers often offer programmes of in-house training, which usually focus on issues such as child protection and equal opportunities. It is also quite common for community development workers to pursue their own professional development by undertaking a Masters degree or other postgraduate qualification. Relevant subjects include voluntary sector studies, housing practice, business and community studies, legal studies, public health/community health and social services management.