BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE
24,862.5 - 26,513.37 per year
Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone
Full-time
YOUTH PROGRESSIONS COACH Location: Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Contract: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week Salary: £24,862.50 - £26,513.37 Reporting to: Aspirations, Skills and Progression Lead As our Employability & Skills offer expands through new contracts and partnerships, we are growing our delivery team to ensure all young people—particularly those who are NEET or at risk—have access to real, sustainable opportunities. As a Youth Progression Coach, you will deliver tailored, person- centred support for young people aged 14–25, helping them gain the confidence, skills, and connections they need to transition into education, employment, or training. This includes managing a caseload, delivering 1:1 and group sessions, and supporting young people to overcome barriers to progression. You will also act as a values-led team member by understanding, embodying, and consistently demonstrating our HEART values in all aspects of your work and interactions. Registered Charity Number 1135949 ABOUT BLACKBURN & DARWEN YOUTH ZONE Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, opened in May 2012 as an independent Charity, but we are proud to be part of the growing OnSide Network. We work with young people aged 5-19 (up to 25 with additional needs) and offer youth work, health and wellbeing and employability services, giving young people somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to. Whilst our building and activities provide a hook for young people to initially engage with us, the relationships they develop with our team of Youth Workers ensures they return night after night. We pride ourselves as being one of the leading youth organisations in Blackburn and Darwen. Our service to young people is focussed around a state-of-the-art, multi million pound facility that is purpose-built and remains dedicated to young people. This facility has recently undergone a 3 million pound transformation thanks to the Youth Investment Fund. This funding has allowed us to redevelop our Blackburn site to be able to offer a wider range of services for young people whilst celebrating the history of the building. Our newly developed Fusebox is the site where electricity was first generated in Blackburn. Alongside our history we also have a football pitch on our roof, this is one of Blackburn’s best kept secrets! Our services for young people are needed more than ever and despite the prevalent challenges around the lasting impact of the pandemic, young people feeling isolated and the cost of living crisis, our team continues to provide a home from home for young people. OPENED JAN 2012 FREE ENTRY, FREE HOT MEALS 5000+ YOUNG PEOPLE ATTEND OUR SERVICE P/A OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 3 MILLION POUND TRANSFORMATION Registered Charity Number 1135949 How we made a difference in 2024 22,834 Young people supported by Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone since it opened its doors in 2012 17% Young people with additional needs 27,095 Free hot meals to young people Young Person quote ''Youth zone has helped me make more friends.'' 493 Sessions held 66,478 Attendances Per annum 1,446 New members in 2024 576 Young People Supported into Education, Employment or Training (since the launch of Youth Hub in 2021) 13,337 Engagements in Maker Zone ( STEM ) 26,639 Engagements in Sports 8,160 Engagements in health & wellbeing Young Person quote “I wouldn’t be where I am now if I didn’t have the support of the Blackburn Youth Hub. Through 1-1s they have given me the opportunity to gain my confidence back and they have helped me push my limits even further and got me out of my shell.” Registered Charity Number 1135949 Key Accountabilities Deliver targeted employability programmes for NEET and at-risk young people aged 14–25 Support young people through tailored 1:1 interventions and group sessions Monitor and report on outcomes, progression, and impact against KPIs Collaborate with employers, training providers, and partners to open up progression routes Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with safeguarding and contractual requirements Contribute to a culture of aspiration, support, and continuous improvement DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Help young people progress into positive destinations (EET) Support participants in work experience, training, or education—including aftercare and mentoring Conduct initial assessments and identify individual needs Input and manage data on attendance, development, and outcomes; support reporting requirements Share responsibility for team performance around recruitment, engagement, and retention Support participant signposting and referrals to specialist support (e.g. housing, wellbeing, etc.) Keep up to date with labour market changes, professional standards, and local opportunities Measurable Outputs and Behaviours Outputs (KPIs & Targets): Minimum of 70% of caseload progress into education, employment, or training Minimum of 85% retention of young people once engaged on programme Minimum of 85% of referrals convert into active engagement on programme 100% of young people receive an individual action plan and regular reviews Accurate records maintained on CRM system within 48 hours of delivery or contact All safeguarding, risk assessment, and compliance actions completed in line with policy Registered Charity Number 1135949 At least 1 external progression opportunity facilitated per young person (e.g. employer visit, course enrolment) Quarterly reporting completed on time, to required standard Expected Behaviours: Empowering: Champions young people’s potential and maintains a strengths-based approach Accountable: Delivers against commitments, follows through on actions, and owns results Solution-focused: Responds to barriers with practical, positive action Collaborative: Works effectively with colleagues and external partners to support progression Professional: Maintains confidentiality, boundaries, and represents the Youth Zone with integrity Reflective: Seeks feedback and engages in continuous learning and improvement Inclusive: Promotes equity, diversity, and access for all young people Safeguarding and compliance. Ensure the charity has a robust approach to risk management, including person centred risk assessment and risk management processes To understand and adhere to BYZ policies and procedures and ensure all staff and volunteers are responsible for doing likewise. To promote social integration and inclusion, and proactively challenge any prejudice and discrimination. To keep updated with any new legislation, policies and procedures related to primary years PERSON SPECIFICATION Experience Essential Experience of providing high quality coaching support that ensures learners access employment, education or training Able to build a learners/job seekers self-confidence, self-esteem, motivation to help them achieve in the world of work and lasting employment/career development Identifying skills and qualities in a learner to match appropriately with vacancies Progressing learners and job seekers into education, employment or training and apprenticeships and sustaining them in these Registered Charity Number 1135949 Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with referral partners to ensure a constant flow of new referrals Experience of providing high quality coaching support that ensures learners access employment, education or training Able to build a learners/job seekers self-confidence, self-esteem, motivation to help them achieve in the world of work and lasting employment/career development Identifying skills and qualities in a learner to match appropriately with vacancies Progressing learners and job seekers into education, employment or training and apprenticeships and sustaining them in these Desirable Experience of providing high quality CV, job search, interview support to learners/job seekers Experience of delivering services in the employability sector Experience of providing high quality CV, job search, interview support to learners/job seekers Education/Training/Qualification Essential Relevant professional qualification First Aid Desirable Five GCSEs or equivalent at Grade C or above IAG Level 3 Coaching qualification Skills Essential Strong commitment to young people and ability to engage and build positive relationships with disengaged young people Ability to identify and challenge discrimination and discriminatory behaviour, taking appropriate action as necessary Good organisational skills Ability to plan, monitor, evaluate and prioritise work through setting realistic targets Ability to coach others and bring out the best in them Ability to build trusted networks and liaison with relevant partner agencies Registered Charity Number 1135949 Desirable Ability to lead and motivate a team of part-time staff and volunteer Knowledge Essential Knowledge of approaches including those relating to coaching, emotional intelligence that ensure people are well prepared for the world of work Principle of effective youth work practices Knowledge of the issues affecting young people Knowledge of monitoring and reporting on key Performance Indicators in relation to project delivery and contractual obligations from funders and commissioners Desirable Knowledge of compliance on ESF contracts Co-active coaching Personal Qualities Essential Patience, tolerance and flexibility Desire to develop and undertake training as required Embody BYZ values Outcome and target driven Creative and enthusiastic Happy to work flexible hours Selection criteria for guidance only, alternative methods may be used to assist the selection process Values based Practice: All staff are expected to demonstrate behavioural competencies that reflect our organisational values in their day-to-day work, and in how they build positive, respectful relationships with young people, colleagues, and external stakeholders. Safeguarding: Understanding of safeguarding procedures and best practices when working with young people (Essential). Staff are expected to demonstrate behavioural competencies aligned with our values, acting with integrity, professionalism, and respect, and contributing to a positive, responsible, and safeguarding-focused culture. Registered Charity Number 1135949 Benefits FREE GYM ACCESS 33 DAYS HOLIDAY (INCLUSIVE OF BANK HOLS) WELLBEING SUPPORT WORKING HOURS The hours of work are those necessary to fulfil the requirements of the position. This will involve working unsocial hours in evenings and at weekends during Youth Zone sessions or at events, and also working during the day. HOW TO APPLY Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone is committed to the safeguarding of young people. In accordance with our Child Protection and Safeguarding procedures, this position requires an enhanced DBS check. The strength of OnSide Youth Zones comes from the diversity of the people within our vibrant network. We are proud that our Youth Zone team reflects the communities we serve, and we value people working together from a range of different backgrounds locally and nationally, and with different experiences, all with a shared passion for boosting the aspirations of young people across the country. Diversity brings innovation, fresh ideas and creativity, and we actively strive to create a culture that is truly inclusive and fair for all and where everyone in the team can be themselves and thrive. The Youth Zone welcomes applicants from all sectors of the community. FLEXIBLE WORKING To apply, send your CV and cover letter via the Indeed HERE BIRTHDAY DAY OFF Registered Charity Number 1135949 Our HEART values are at the core of everything we do. Honesty Respect Our Values Excellence Teamwork Accountability Registered Charity Number 1135949
BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE
27,000 per year
Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone
Full-time
DIGITAL DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY LEAD Location: Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Contract: : 37.5 hours per. Evenings and Weekends (minimum of four delivery sessions with young people per week) Salary: Up to £27,000 (dependent on experience and qualification) Reporting to: Head of Service Registered Charity Number 1135949 ABOUT BLACKBURN & DARWEN YOUTH ZONE Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, opened in May 2012 as an independent Charity, but we are proud to be part of the growing OnSide Network. We work with young people aged 5-19 (up to 25 with additional needs) and offer youth work, health and wellbeing and employability services, giving young people somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to. Whilst our building and activities provide a hook for young people to initially engage with us, the relationships they develop with our team of Youth Workers ensures they return night after night. We pride ourselves as being one of the leading youth organisations in Blackburn and Darwen. Our service to young people is focussed around a state-of-the-art, multi million pound facility that is purpose-built and remains dedicated to young people. This facility has recently undergone a 3 million pound transformation thanks to the Youth Investment Fund. This funding has allowed us to redevelop our Blackburn site to be able to offer a wider range of services for young people whilst celebrating the history of the building. Our newly developed Fusebox is the site where electricity was first generated in Blackburn. Alongside our history we also have a football pitch on our roof, this is one of Blackburn’s best kept secrets! Our services for young people are needed more than ever and despite the prevalent challenges around the lasting impact of the pandemic, young people feeling isolated and the cost of living crisis, our team continues to provide a home from home for young people. OPENED JAN 2012 FREE ENTRY, FREE HOT MEALS 5000+ YOUNG PEOPLE ATTEND OUR SERVICE P/A OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 3 MILLION POUND TRANSFORMATION Registered Charity Number 1135949 How we made a difference in 2024 22,834 Young people supported by Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone since it opened its doors in 2012 17% Young people with additional needs 27,095 Free hot meals to young people Young Person quote ''Youth zone has helped me make more friends.'' 493 Sessions held 66,478 Attendances Per annum 1,446 New members in 2024 576 Young People Supported into Education, Employment or Training (since the launch of Youth Hub in 2021) 13,337 Engagements in Maker Zone ( STEM ) 26,639 Engagements in Sports 8,160 Engagements in health & wellbeing Young Person quote “I wouldn’t be where I am now if I didn’t have the support of the Blackburn Youth Hub. Through 1-1s they have given me the opportunity to gain my confidence back and they have helped me push my limits even further and got me out of my shell.” Registered Charity Number 1135949 The role Making, alongside sport, the arts and Youth Work is at the heart of B&DYZ’s offer to young people. The purpose built ‘Making Zone’ offers a wide range of technical and creative opportunities for young people including, 3D printing, electronics & programming, STEAM, moulding & casting and much more. Together with our partners The Making Rooms - an organisation dedicated to creative and technical training, you will help develop and deliver a diverse and exciting programme of activities aimed at young people aged 5 to 25 years, that stimulates, develops and meets the needs of young people from all backgrounds and abilities. You will utilise creativity and technical problem solving in the wider youth work agenda supporting and encouraging young people to express themselves, develop their technical abilities and facilitate personal development by developing their skills through positive engagement and experiences. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES To schedule, design, coordinate and deliver a comprehensive making programme for young people aged 5 to 25 at B&DYZ which will enable them to build their confidence, creative and technical skills, social skills and overall well being. To have line management responsibility for the arts and creative team, helping guide, support and coach so their delivery meets our quality assurance framework standards. Provide a universal service to all children and young people that is well marketed and reaches across the borough to ensure membership is reflective of local demographics promoting social mix within the sessions. To ensure that the programme is high quality and meets the needs of the young people, including young people with additional needs and disabilities and young people who may typically not engage in these provisions. To ensure that the programme contributes to the wider youth work agenda, supporting the development of personal and art skills of young people To ensure all sessions are equipped with a range of resources and activities to engage, develop and inform young people. To ensure all programme delivery is safe. To organise events, challenges, competitions and showcases, both internally and externally on a regular basis. Registered Charity Number 1135949 To support the promotion plan and work in the community to attract young people. To motivate, encourage and support young people to participate fully in sessions. To network with local appropriate groups and community providers and other partner organisations to develop joint working programmes. In conjunction with other partners, identity, support and develop talented young people. To work closely with our partner organisation, The Making Rooms, to feedback about the delivery of the programme, and engage with the other Making Zone leads from other Youth Zones. To keep The Making Zone in a clean, tidy and safe state. Carry out any other reasonable duties as requested by management. To work with youth work managers to plan and deliver specific funded projects such as science week and other relative projects. To support, deliver and evaluate funded projects, according to the objectives and provide reporting on specific projects. A willingness to work unsocial hours during evenings and weekends is required. The ability and willingness to travel to meetings and events both in the region and beyond. To adhere to B&DYZ policies at all times, with reference to Health and Safety, Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities. Safeguarding and compliance. Ensure the charity has a robust approach to risk management, including person centred risk assessment and risk management processes To understand and adhere to BYZ policies and procedures and ensure all staff and volunteers are responsible for doing likewise. To promote social integration and inclusion, and proactively challenge any prejudice and discrimination. To keep updated with any new legislation, policies and procedures related to primary years Registered Charity Number 1135949 PERSON SPECIFICATION experience Experience of delivering creative and technical activities across all genres such as traditional, digital and sustainability in line with relevant guidance and good practice, including (Essential) : -3D modelling & printing. -Programming & electronics. -Moulding & casting. -2D vector design & vinyl cutting. Proven experience of engaging vulnerable, disengaged or hard to reach young people. (Essential) Experience of working with young people. (Essential) Experience working in partnership with external agencies to create opportunities for young people and improve our reputation with arts. (Essential) Experience managing and leading projects and accreditations such as ASDAN (Desirable) Education/Training/Qualification Current First Aid Qualification. (Desirable) Working towards or achieved qualification in Engineering or Computer Science. (Desirable) Skills & Abilities Excellent communication skills to deliver activity programmes to a wide range of young people. (Essential) Ability to motivate and engage staff, volunteers and young people in physical and computer based activities. (Essential) Strong commitment to young people and ability to engage and build positive relationships with disengaged young people. (Essential) Ability to plan and deliver events, such hack-a-thons. (Essential) Ability to understand and meet children’s needs including children with additional needs. (Essential) Registered Charity Number 1135949 Knowledge Awareness and knowledge of what constitutes good quality arts offer for children and young people (Essential) Knowledge and experience of digital creativity and how to teach these skills to children and young people. (Essential) Ability to understand and meet children’s needs including children with additional needs. (Essential) Sound knowledge of technical qualifications and the quality standards expected for the successful delivery of accredited technical activities. (Essential) Personal Qualities Ability to establish good professional relationships with young people and adults (Essential) Patience, tolerance and flexibility (Essential) Creativity and enthusiasm (Essential) Hands on / Can do attitude (Essential) Flexible approach to working (Essential) other Enhanced DBS (Essential) Clean driving licence (Desirable) Selection criteria for guidance only, alternative methods may be used to assist the selection process Values based Practice: All staff are expected to demonstrate behavioural competencies that reflect our organisational values in their day-to-day work, and in how they build positive, respectful relationships with young people, colleagues, and external stakeholders. Safeguarding: Understanding of safeguarding procedures and best practices when working with young people (Essential). Staff are expected to demonstrate behavioural competencies aligned with our values, acting with integrity, professionalism, and respect, and contributing to a positive, responsible, and safeguarding-focused culture. Registered Charity Number 1135949 Benefits FREE GYM ACCESS 33 DAYS HOLIDAY (INCLUSIVE OF BANK HOLS) WELLBEING SUPPORT WORKING HOURS The hours of work are those necessary to fulfil the requirements of the position. This will involve working unsocial hours in evenings and at weekends during Youth Zone sessions or at events, and also working during the day. HOW TO APPLY Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone is committed to the safeguarding of young people. In accordance with our Child Protection and Safeguarding procedures, this position requires an enhanced DBS check. The strength of OnSide Youth Zones comes from the diversity of the people within our vibrant network. We are proud that our Youth Zone team reflects the communities we serve, and we value people working together from a range of different backgrounds locally and nationally, and with different experiences, all with a shared passion for boosting the aspirations of young people across the country. Diversity brings innovation, fresh ideas and creativity, and we actively strive to create a culture that is truly inclusive and fair for all and where everyone in the team can be themselves and thrive. The Youth Zone welcomes applicants from all sectors of the community. FLEXIBLE WORKING Please Apply via the link HERE BIRTHDAY DAY OFF Registered Charity Number 1135949 Our HEART values are at the core of everything we do. Honesty Respect Our Values Excellence Teamwork Accountability Registered Charity Number 1135949