This month, youth support workers from The Youth Association visited Leeds City College campuses to take part in Fresher’s Fairs. The aim was to inspire students and promote youth work as a career path. The stalls advertised the Choose Youth Work campaign which is designed to increase awareness and participation in the sector.
Over three events at the Park Lane, Quarry Hill, and Printworks campuses, youth workers engaged with more than 150 students aged 16–18 from diverse backgrounds and courses, including performing arts, maths, and childcare. TYA wanted to make it clear that regardless of what course students are on, youth work offers a sustainable and impactful career option.
To maximise the engagements in the stall, youth workers delivered mini youth work sessions on topics such as knife crime, social media, and the menstrual cycle, demonstrating the wide scope of youth work. Students were invited to join interactive activities, including a True or False game and an “unofficial podcast” discussion (microphones were used as props to encourage conversation, they weren’t ever recording).
The stalls also featured topic cards covering areas like gangs, mental health, and sports, which were popular among students. These conversations helped show how youth work overlaps with issues young people care about most. Obviously, the sweet treats on offer were also a hit, with supplies needing replenishment after each fair.
The events were not only an opportunity for outreach but also a reminder to the youth workers themselves of the value and impact of the profession. One memorable moment came when students returned after a fair to thank the team for inspiring conversations.
Finally, this week we’re saying a big goodbye to Syed, one of our amazing youth support workers who brought a huge amount of energy and passion to every Freshers Fair. His enthusiasm for youth work was always contagious, it felt like he was passing the torch to the next generation, inspiring young people to see the possibilities in this career. While Syed is off to explore new adventures, we know the impact he’s made will stick around. He’ll be missed dearly, but his legacy of passion and positivity will live on in the young people (and other youth workers!) he’s inspired.
