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Careers adviser/personal adviser: Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates and Diplomates, a degree or HND/foundation degree in a sociological, educational, or health related topic would be useful. The following subjects may therefore be useful.

social work;
youth work;
psychology;
counselling;
teaching.

Foundation degrees in working with young people and young people’s services are now available, specifically with potential personal advisers and youth workers in mind. More details are available from the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) .

Entry is possible as a trainee personal adviser (PA) without a degree or HND/foundation degree, if you have NVQ level 3 qualifications. Relevant work experience with young people is essential. It is possible to take a position as an employment training adviser or Connexions Assistant, and then work your way up to trainee PA.

Although postgraduate qualifications are not necessary for entry, the QCG (qualification in careers guidance) and other qualifications in social work or youth work can reduce the training needed for full qualification. The QCG is available full time, part time and through distance learning and the vast majority of people who take it go on to employment in careers work, mainly as PAs. Most QCG students are self-funded but some take out Professional and Career Development Loans , and some are sponsored by Connexions or other careers companies. Sponsored places are also occasionally available through the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) ; individual course providers will provide more details. Students studying in Scotland may be eligible for an award from the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) .

Experience of working with young people, either on a paid or voluntary basis, is necessary to apply for a position as a trainee PA and is strongly recommended for entry to the QCG.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

a high level of communication and listening skills;
the ability to motivate and build a rapport with young people;
flexibility and adaptability;
an empathetic, non-judgmental and ethical approach;
the ability to work individually or as part of a team;
the ability to manage your own caseload;
the ability to work under pressure;
organisational skills;
problem-solving skills;
familiarity with information technology.

All applicants for PA posts need an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check. A driving licence is usually required. In some settings, such as rural outreach, you may need your own transport.

The Every Child Matters government initiative means that careers advisers/personal advisers are likely to continue to be in demand in a range of roles.

For more information see work experience and find courses and research.

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