How to become
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Safeguarding Support Officer Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship with an organisation, then move into child protection work with experience and further training.
This can take 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
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Work
You could do professional development training with your employer to move into child protection work.
For example, you may be a police officer or social worker and complete a course before moving to a child protection unit in your area.
Volunteering
Experience of working with vulnerable children is essential when applying for jobs.
You can get experience by volunteering with an organisation like:
You can also search for opportunities through:
Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs if you're a qualified professional and have experience of working with children, young people, their parents and carers.
Employers often look for social workers but other roles that involve child protection duties include:
Management experience can also be helpful.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Association of Child Protection Professionals for career development opportunities and to get support from others doing this job.
Further information
You can find out more about working in child protection from NSPCC Learning.