At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people through engaging activities and mentoring in a dynamic youth programme.
- Company: Join a vibrant youth service dedicated to empowering young people across Northern Ireland.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with a competitive salary and valuable work experience.
- Other info: Flexible placements and opportunities for personal growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while developing your own skills.
- Qualifications: Must have 4 GCSEs, including English, and a passion for youth work.
The predicted salary is between 25580 - 25580 £ per year.
Primary Location: Derry/Londonderry-Limavady-Limavady Youth Resource Centre
Other Locations: Derry/Londonderry-Coleraine-Coleraine Area Youth Office, Antrim-Portrush-Portrush Youth Centre
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (May be subject to extension or reduced for any valid reason)
Duration of Contract/Contract End Date: March 2027 - Please refer to candidate pack for full details
Status: Part-Time
Hours per Week: 24 hours and 6 hours per week voluntary work
Working Pattern: Please refer to candidate pack for full details
Grade/Scale: Assistant Youth Support Worker | Support Worker Range Pt 5 | £25,580 per annum pro rata
Additional Information: In addition to the 24 hours per week paid employment, successful candidates will be expected to undertake an additional 6 hours per week voluntary work.
The LYNC CONNECT programme will be implemented across the statutory EA Youth Service in Causeway Coast and Glens. The purpose of these programmes is to develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills of young people aged 18-25 years old, through training and paid work experience, whilst they are supported by professionally qualified youth workers.
Participants will attain EA recognition at the Youth Support Worker level qualification, relevant personal and youth work skills training and accreditation over an eight month period from July 2026 – February 2027. Please note however, there is no guarantee of a paid post on completion of this programme.
The CONNECT programme is aimed at engaging 54 young people across Northern Ireland aged 18-25 years old who have a minimum of 4 GCSE’s (grades A* - C) or equivalent or higher, one of which should be English (essential skills level 2 is accepted as an equivalent to GCSE English) and want to receive work experience, either to increase a personal statement to apply to further education, or to gain employment.
Applicants must be a registered youth service member, volunteer or part-time youth leader (attend, volunteer or work in any form of youth provision, for example a youth club/centre, area based youth provision, a Girls Brigade group, a Boys Brigade group, a Scout group, a Guide group or a church based or community youth group).
Applicants will have to demonstrate they have evidence of a commitment to working with children and young people and have a commitment to volunteering.
You will be paid for 24 hours per week and the 6 remaining hours will be a commitment to volunteer by giving your time as positive role models and peer mentors for the young people in the EA Youth Service Community scheme. You will provide one to one support as a peer mentor using the Circle of Courage framework as well as small reflective group work using the reflection framework model.
Successful candidates will be given the opportunity where possible to choose and complete two work placements, working directly with children and young people in youth service teams which may include working in schools.
Placement opportunities will include:
- Centre Based Youth Work (This placement will involve regular weekend work)
All participants of the programme will be provided with a link youth worker providing support and supervision. There will be regular opportunities for participants to meet and to share practice and personal learning. Each participant will have an individual plan with their own personal goals detailed and reviewed, ensuring that outcomes are recorded as well as satisfaction rates.
JOB PURPOSE: To work directly with young people to develop their social education by providing programmes of activities. This post is for staff appointed to undertake duties under the direction of a Worker in Charge or nominated Youth Support Worker.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist with the planning and implementation of programmes, related to the ‘Model for Effective Practice’.
- Ensure that young people play an active role in the youth group and work towards a model of youth participation.
- Communicate effectively and develop a rapport with young people.
- Assist in the development of relationships with the wider community and external agencies.
- Assist young people to express and realise their goals.
- Challenge oppressive behaviour in young people.
- Provide information and support to young people.
- Support young people in evaluating youth work activities and the impact of youth work on their development.
- Implement the unit’s Child Protection Policy and work with young people to safeguard their welfare and the welfare of others.
- Assist with administrative duties within the unit.
This job description will be subject to review in light of changing circumstances and is not intended to be rigid and inflexible but should be regarded as providing guidelines within which the individual works. Other duties of a similar nature and appropriate to the grade may be assigned from time to time.
In accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998), the post-holder is expected to promote good relations, equality of opportunity and pay due regard for equality legislation at all times.
PERSON SPECIFICATION:
Essential Criteria:
- By the closing date for receipt of applications, have a minimum of 4 GCSE’s (grades A* - C) or equivalent or higher, one of which should be English (essential skills level 2 is accepted as an equivalent to GCSE English).
- Applicants must be a member/attendee, volunteer or leader in any form of statutory or voluntary youth provision.
- At least 18 years of age and less than 26 years of age.
- Willing to work unsociable hours including evenings, weekends and holidays.
- Able to commence the role in August 2026.
Experience:
- Demonstrable evidence of a commitment to working with children and young people.
- Demonstrable evidence of a commitment to volunteering.
Value Orientation:
- Demonstrable evidence of how your approach to work reflects EA’s values.
Disclosure of Criminal Background: The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (Northern Ireland) Order 2007 defines working directly with children or young people or in specified places as ‘regulated activity’. In the event that you are recommended for appointment to a post that involves ‘regulated activity’, the Education Authority will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background.
Locations
LYNC - Linking Youth to New Careers Programme - Connect Programme - Assistant Youth Support Wor[...] in Derry, Londonderry employer: National Instruments
At LYNC, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to empowering young people through meaningful work experiences. Our supportive work culture fosters personal and professional growth, offering opportunities for training and development while making a positive impact in the community. Located in the vibrant areas of Derry/Londonderry and Limavady, our team enjoys a collaborative environment that values commitment to youth engagement and volunteerism, ensuring every employee feels valued and inspired.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land LYNC - Linking Youth to New Careers Programme - Connect Programme - Assistant Youth Support Wor[...] in Derry, Londonderry
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like National Instruments, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at National Instruments. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through National Instruments's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace LYNC - Linking Youth to New Careers Programme - Connect Programme - Assistant Youth Support Wor[...] in Derry, Londonderry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at National Instruments. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at National Instruments.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Instruments
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with National Instruments.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a LYNC - Linking Youth to New Careers Programme - Connect Programme - Assistant Youth Support Wor[...] at National Instruments.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show National Instruments that you're ready to hit the ground running in the LYNC - Linking Youth to New Careers Programme - Connect Programme - Assistant Youth Support Wor[...] role.
