Level 4 Children, Young People and Families Practitioner
Your Journey to Making a Lasting Impact
Develop the skills, confidence, and compassion to support children, young people, and families — helping them overcome challenges and build brighter futures.
The Level 4 Children, Young People and Families Practitioner qualification prepares learners to make a real difference in the lives of children, young people, and their families..
You’ll develop the skills to assess needs, plan interventions, and provide emotional and practical support — empowering individuals to achieve positive and lasting change. Whether working in residential homes, schools, youth justice, or community settings, you’ll gain the knowledge and experience to deliver person-centred, evidence-based support with empathy and professionalism.
You’ll learn how to:
Build trusting, supportive relationships with children, young people, and families
Identify needs and design effective care or intervention plans
Promote safeguarding, inclusion, and wellbeing across all practice
Work collaboratively with professionals from multiple agencies
Evaluate progress and reflect on the impact of your work
Model best practice and positive behaviour for others in your team
Level:
4 Apprenticeship Standard
Typical Duration:
18–24 months
Assessment:
Observation, professional discussion & portfolio
Study Mode:
Work-based learning
Specialisms:
Residential Care or Community Practice
Minimum Age:
16+
Who Is It For?
This qualification is perfect for:
Practitioners working in residential childcare, youth services, or family support
Early intervention and safeguarding professionals
Support workers aiming to progress into senior roles or specialist practice
Individuals with a passion for improving outcomes for children and families
Course Content
You’ll cover a blend of core knowledge, skills, and behaviours, alongside one of two specialist pathways — Residential Care or Community Practice.
Core Learning Areas:
Child, Adolescent, and Family Development
Safeguarding and Risk Management
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Communication and Relationship Building
Assessment, Planning, and Evaluation
Reflective Practice and Professional Judgement
Partnership and Multi-Agency Working
Residential Care Pathway:
Residential Childcare Legislation and Compliance
Creating and Maintaining Placement Plans
Supporting Traumatised or Vulnerable Children
Group Dynamics and Therapeutic Approaches
Professional Parenting and Team Collaboration
Community Pathway:
Early Intervention and Preventative Practice
Family Support and Community Engagement
Working Across Age Groups and Services
Multi-Agency Networking and Collaboration
Supporting Children with Complex Needs
How You’ll Be Assessed
Assessment focuses on both practical competence and reflective understanding.
Assessor observations in your workplace
Professional discussions and reflective accounts
Case studies and evidence-based reports
Portfolio of evidence documenting your learning
End-point assessment (EPA) including observation and discussion
Progression & Careers
After qualifying, you can work as:
After qualifying, you can work as:
Residential Childcare Practitioner
Family Support Worker
Early Help or Youth Support Worker
Community Development Officer
Progression routes include:
Level 5 Diploma in Children, Young People and Families Management
Level 5 Leader in Adult Care (for cross-sector progression)
Foundation Degree in Youth Work, Social Care, or Early Years
Entry Requirements
Learners must be aged 16+
Enhanced DBS check required
Must be employed or volunteering in a suitable childcare, youth, or family support setting
English and Maths at Level 2 (or achieved before completion)
Why Choose Accacia Training?
Delivered by experienced childcare and family support professionals
Practical, work-based learning that fits around your role
Focused on real-world impact, reflective practice, and personal growth
Strong links with local authorities, residential homes, and community partners
Supportive learning environment with dedicated tutor guidance
Support Hub
Do I need to choose a specialism?
Yes — you’ll specialise in either Residential Care or Community Practice depending on your role.
Do I need to be working with children or families already?
Yes — this qualification requires active engagement in a relevant setting.
Is this recognised by Ofsted and Skills for Care?
Yes — it’s an approved standard regulated under Skills England.
How long does it take?
Typically 18–24 months, depending on your experience and delivery format.
What’s next after this qualification?
You can progress to Level 5 management qualifications or degree-level study in Children’s Services or Social Care.
