You could apply to do a Safeguarding Support Officer Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship with an organisation, then move into child protection work after further training.

This takes up to 2 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You could do professional development training with your employer to move into child protection work.

For example, you may be a police officer and complete a course before moving to a child protection unit in your area.

Experience of working with vulnerable children is essential.

You can get experience by volunteering. You can get information on volunteering opportunities from:

• NSPCC
• The Children's Society
• Do IT

You can apply directly for jobs if you're a qualified professional.

Employers often look for social workers but other roles that involve child protection include:

• youth worker
• teacher
• police officer
• family support worker
• probation officer

You'll need several years of experience working with children, young people, their parents and carers. Management experience will also be helpful.

You'll need:

• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• sensitivity and understanding
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to work well with others
• knowledge of psychology
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• active listening skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

You'll usually need a driving licence.

In your daily tasks you may:

• speak with children, families and carers to assess their needs
  
• investigate concerns and allegations
• promote children's rights, safety and wellbeing
  
• write report, care plans and arrange support
• make referrals to partner agencies
• give evidence in court

You could work in an office or visit sites.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding and you may spend nights away from home.