Welcome to the National Youth Work Induction Checklist, a foundational resource designed by the youth work sector, for the youth work sector to support the consistency of induction training across Scotland.   

Whether you’re just starting out in youth work or looking to refresh your skills, this checklist will guide you through the essential elements needed to deliver effective, rights-based youth work.  

The National Youth Work Induction Checklist is a structured tool that ensures every youth worker, whether new or experienced, has access to the same high-quality induction across Scotland.  

Developed by YouthLink Scotland in consultation with the youth work sector, the checklist covers everything from understanding young people and safeguarding, to developing key youth work skills and promoting equality and diversity.  

This resource provides a training benchmark which can be tailored to every youth work organisation’s setting and needs, giving youth workers a strong foundation in their practice and ensuring they meet the National Occupational Standards for Youth Work and the competencies for Community Learning and Development (CLD). 

The checklist is designed for anyone involved in youth work, from volunteers and part-time staff to full-time professionals. It’s particularly valuable for:  

• New youth workers looking for a clear guide to the key principles and practices of their role.
• Experienced workers wanting to refresh and update their skills.
• Youth work managers and leaders aiming to ensure a consistent and high-quality induction process for their team.  

Whether you’re a volunteer stepping into your first youth work role, or a seasoned professional refining your practice, the National Induction Checklist provides the tools you need to make a real difference in the lives of young people.  

Youth work plays a vital role in supporting young people’s personal, social, and educational development. The National Youth Work Induction Checklist ensures that every youth worker is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to make a positive impact. It promotes consistency across the sector, supports safeguarding, and ensures that youth workers can confidently navigate challenges and opportunities.  

By adopting the checklist, organisations and individuals commit to a shared standard of practice that improves outcomes for young people, encourages professional growth, and builds stronger, more inclusive communities.