TAFE Griffith Diploma of Youth Work open for enrollments

The diploma, which is currently open for enrollment at TAFE NSW Griffith, is targeted at those with experience working with young people and who are keen to build their skills and networks.

This is welcome news for the MIA's Youth Links youth shelter in Griffith who say while they don't struggle to get applicants, they tend to find attracting suitably qualified applicants a challenge.

"We have always had a diploma for entry level for employment but the distance study can be a difficult process so it will be a welcome addition,' Deb Longhurst, Youth Links refuge co-ordinator said.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Community Services Ashleigh Ellis urged locals to consider a career in youth work, saying it was richly rewarding and with plenty of opportunity for professional growth.

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"To be able to make a difference in a young person's life is a privilege," Ms Ellis said.

"Today's youth are working in an increasingly complex environment, especially when you throw social media into the mix.

"Young people are trying to work out where they fit in while at the same time being exposed to the superficial parts of a person's life on social media and it can be very difficult."

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, one quarter of young people aged 16-24 have a mental health disorder.

Ms Ellis said youth workers supported people aged between 12 and 24 facing welfare, behavioural, developmental, social and protection issues, and worked in youth-specific services, such as refuges, youth centres or mental health programs.

Graduates could secure jobs such as case manager, case worker, youth services coordinator and youth worker, she said.

The Diploma of Youth Work is a 12-month course individually tailored to students' experience level and is delivered online via connected classroom.

TAFE NSW Diploma of Youth Work graduate Mel Sass said a career in youth work offered both diversity and job satisfaction.

"It's a career pathway that can take you anywhere around the country; there's always a need to support young people in regional areas and in the cities," she said.