Two young people who joined the Isle of Man Youth Service’s Young Workforce Programme have progressed into valued roles within the service while preparing for future careers in education.
Rebecca Wilkinson and Zach Hand joined the programme in 2025 before gaining practical experience, recognised training and pathways into youth work and other careers working with children and young people.
The programme recruits young people from age 15 to 18 through a formal application process. Successful applicants complete six weeks of youth work training, before gaining accreditation and volunteering in youth clubs across the Island. Those who demonstrate commitment and potential can then apply to join the Youth Work Assistant talent pool, where they receive mentoring before progressing into paid roles when opportunities arise.
Now entering its third year, the programme continues to help young people gain qualifications, confidence and workplace skills while supporting youth clubs across the Island. Participants have also taken part in development opportunities, including youth exchanges with Jersey and Ireland.
Rebecca, 18, will begin studying at Edge Hill University this month with the aim of becoming a primary school teacher. She said the programme had helped her gain experience and confidence before working in youth clubs.
Zach Hand, who is aged 18 and taking a gap year before returning to study, said youth work had helped prepare him for his ambition to become a high school maths teacher.
Nigel Howard, Principal Youth Officer, said:
‘The Young Workforce Programme helps young people gain practical experience while developing the confidence and skills they need for the future. Rebecca and Zach embraced every opportunity available to them, from volunteering in youth clubs to representing the Isle of Man on youth exchanges. They have become valued members of our workforce and excellent role models for future applicants.’
Applications for the next Young Workforce Programme open in February 2027.
For more information about the 2027 Young Workforce Programme, contact:
Email: youthserviceenquiries@gov.im
Telephone: +44 1624 686057
