SA国际传谋

There's no single set of requirements to become a child and youth care worker in Alberta. The occupation isn't provincially regulated, so each employer decides what it asks for. Depending on the role, that can include related post-secondary training, one or more record checks, and experience with young people. Certification through the Child and Youth Care Association of Alberta (CYCAA) is voluntary and has its own criteria. Here's how to become a child and youth worker in Alberta and what to expect along the way.

Does Alberta Regulate Child and Youth Care Workers?

No. states, "There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta." Without a provincial licence, hiring requirements come from each employer and can differ from one role to the next:

How to Become a Child and Youth Worker in Alberta

Here's how the pieces fit together, from training to voluntary certification.

Step 1: Get Related Post-Secondary Training

Education requirements vary by employer. ALIS notes that employers generally prefer related post-secondary education in child and youth care or a related social science or human services field. For NOC 42201, adds that a college or university program in social work, child and youth care, psychology, or another social science or health-related discipline "is usually required."

Based on the duties ALIS lists, look for training that covers:

• Child development and how trauma shapes behaviour
• Responding to aggression and self-injurious behaviour safely
• Case notes and report writing
• A supervised field placement in a youth services setting

Step 2: Learn Which Record Checks Employers May Request

Employers decide which checks a role needs, and a criminal record check isn't the same as a vulnerable sector check:

According to the , a vulnerable sector check includes a criminal record check, but a criminal record check alone doesn't include the vulnerable sector search. You can't order a on your own: the hiring organization must make the request, and the police service where you live conducts it. Some applicants are asked to submit fingerprints. The is requested by email from your regional Children's Services office and is released only to you.

Step 3: Gain Relevant Experience

Experience can strengthen an application, though what counts varies by employer. ALIS notes that previous work with young people is an asset, and lists employers including provincial government, school boards, residential treatment programs, group homes, emergency shelters, and after-school programs.

Know the working conditions first:

• Day, evening, and some night shifts
• Work that can be physically and mentally demanding, and may require physically restraining young people
• Lifting up to 20 kg

Step 4: Decide Whether to Pursue CYCAA Certification

CYCAA certification is voluntary, and no diploma qualifies you for it automatically. The assesses each applicant against its own requirements, including that you:

• Are currently employed within the scope of practice
• Have 2,000 internship hours (post-practicum employment) from the previous three years; "Practicum hours do not apply"
• Provide a supervisor's endorsement
• Live and work in Alberta, hold a ($100 a year), and pay a $75 registration fee

Because eligibility depends on your work history and education, when and whether you can apply differs from person to person.

How SA国际传谋 Helps You Start Your Career

SA国际传谋's Child and Youth Services Worker program is a 44-week diploma offered in Calgary and Edmonton: 780 instructional hours, including a 500-hour community services phase and a 240-hour child and youth services phase, plus a 100-hour practicum or capstone project.

Courses line up with the duties ALIS describes:

Other details that support each step:

• Three certificates: First Aid/CPR-C, suicide intervention skills training, and non-violent crisis intervention
• A final 100 hours: an unpaid five-week practicum at a youth services workplace, which requires a negative criminal record check with vulnerable sector search, or a capstone project. Capstone students don't submit a check to the college, but a criminal record will limit employability in this industry. These practicum success tips can help you prepare.
• On campus, combined, or online delivery, with campuses in Calgary City Centre, Calgary South, Edmonton North, and Edmonton South
• Admission with an Alberta high school diploma or equivalent, or mature admission at 18 (19 from out of province) with an admissions test

The program prepares graduates to work under the supervision of professional counsellors on family, legal, education, health, and addiction issues affecting children and youth. Completing the diploma doesn't automatically qualify graduates for CYCAA certification, which has its own employment, work-hour, and assessment requirements.

Final Thoughts

There's no single licence or checklist for child and youth care work in Alberta. Each employer sets its own requirements, and CYCAA certification is a separate, voluntary step with criteria of its own. Understanding how training, record checks, and certification fit together can help you choose your path.

Request more information about SA国际传谋's Child and Youth Services Worker program, admission requirements, financial options, and start dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Become a Child and Youth Worker Without a Diploma?

Sometimes. Job Bank says volunteer or support work in social services may replace formal education for some jobs in this occupational group, but ALIS notes Alberta employers generally prefer related post-secondary training.

What Is the Child and Youth Care Association of Alberta?

The Child and Youth Care Association of Alberta (CYCAA) is a professional association that offers voluntary certification, memberships, and online learning. It doesn't license workers, because Alberta doesn't regulate this occupation.

Do Youth Workers Need a Criminal Record Check in Alberta?

It depends on the employer and role. For positions of trust with children, organizations may request a vulnerable sector check, which goes beyond a criminal record check, or a Child Intervention Record Check.