This program prepares students to work in a variety of agencies and organizations concerned with the increasing needs of troubled children, youth and their families. The ability to manage stress, present in a professional and dependable manner and work closely with others, are keys to succeeding in this field. If you're a self-confident, emotionally mature person with a strong desire to help children and adolescents in a time of crisis, Lambton College can prepare you for a rewarding and challenging career as a Child and Youth Worker.
Lambton gives students a superior experience by providing a high placement rating and networking opportunities that can lead to future employment. Students enjoy smaller class sizes and personal attention, especially during practical work experience where academic subjects are put into practice in a concurrent supervised field placement. Field placements do require a Police record check including a Vulnerable Sectors Check.
Graduates leave the program with approximately 1,500 hours of field placement experience and are eligible to apply for membership and certification with the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Counsellors. Graduates also possess the knowledge and skills required to serve children, youth and families in education, residential, youth justice, hospitals, community and mental health environments. Lambton's graduates have an esteemed reputation, are well respected by their employers, and are sought after in communities beyond Lambton County.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
O.S.S.D. or equivalent with:
Grade 12 English C or U (minimum final grade 60%)
Mature applicants must be at least 19 years of age by the start of classes, be out of secondary school for at least one year and usually do not have a high school diploma. Mature applicant testing for this program is available in the Counselling Department in the subject of English. The test(s) will demonstrate proficiency in required admission subjects. For more information please contact the Counselling Department at ext. 3412. Academic admission requirements can be obtained through Academic Upgrading and Pre-Programs at Lambton College.
PROGRESSION REQUIREMENTS
Students must obtain a minimum grade of C- in all core courses and successfuly complete field placement before progressing onto the next term.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Graduates from this program may find rewarding opportunities in treatment centres (in-patient and out-patient), group homes, alternative programs, educational services, specialized foster care, children’s mental health, youth justice and community agencies invested in children, youth and families.
Interested in working towards a degree? It's easier than you think!
Graduates of the Child & Youth Worker program can apply to University of Windsor regarding the transfer of credits towards completing the Bachelor of Arts Honours in Disability Studies. Click here for more info.
There are many other opportunities available for students wishing to pursue a degree in Ontario, Michigan and Australia upon completion of the Child & Youth Worker program.