Three more organisations across Wales have been formally recognised for the quality of their provision, receiving the highly acclaimed Quality Mark for Youth Work (QMYW).
Both Mind in Gwent and the Wales Federation of Young Farmers Clubs received their very first bronze awards, whilst the Welsh Centre for International Affairs (WCIA) received reaccreditation of its bronze.
The QMYW (which is funded by Welsh Government and administered by the Education Workforce Council (EWC)), is a national award which demonstrates an organisation's excellence in youth work provision. To receive the accreditation, organisations must self-assess against a set of quality standards and pass an external assessment.
To achieve the bronze QMYW, organisations must demonstrate that they have established the essential foundations for high-quality youth work. This includes engaging with young people to shape their provision, a strong understanding of the needs of those they support, and robust policies, procedures, and guidance to ensure a safe and effective approach.
On receiving their reaccreditation, Amber Demetrius, Head of Global Learning, WCIA said “We’re so proud to have had our work recognised in this way.
“The quality mark was a wonderful moment to pause and look back at a time of great change in our organisation. It opened up some really fruitful conversations for us with our partners and participants and we’re so excited to move onto the next chapter with this recognition.”
Dewi Davies, Chair of Wales YFC said “Wales YFC are extremely proud to achieve the bronze Youth Quality Mark, and delighted that the assessors saw the value our organisation provides through a strong, supportive structure with clear roles and a caring, family-like culture.
“It was pleasing to hear that our passion for youth development and wellbeing shined through, with young people and volunteers alike recognising its lasting impact on their personal and social growth.”
Tara Reddy, Quality Mark Development Officer with the EWC said “Congratulations to all three organisations on achieving these awards.
“It’s always a pleasure to be able to award a quality mark to a new organisation and showcase the excellent work it is delivering. But it’s equally exciting to reaccredit an organisation, showing that they are still committed to upholding high standards in all that they do.”
For more information about the QMYW, including how your organisation can gain accreditation, or how you can become an assessor, visit the EWC’s website.