The Diploma in Counselling Children & Young People is an SQA Customised Award developed by S.M.I.L.E and credit rated by SQA at SCQF level 11.
Closing the Gap:
Training the Next Generation of Children & Young People Counsellors
At S.M.I.L.E. Counselling and Training, we’re proud to be celebrating 10 years of supporting children and young people’s mental health in West Lothian. Over the past decade, we’ve seen first-hand how vital timely support is for young people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life’s many challenges.
But we’ve also seen something deeply concerning: a critical shortage of counsellors trained to work specifically with children and young people (CYP). Across Scotland and the UK, demand for mental health services is at an all-time high. Referrals to CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) have risen by over 30% in recent years, and yet nearly one in four young people are turned away due to staff shortages and service capacity.
The statistics are sobering. One in five children now experiences a diagnosable mental health condition. And job market data shows postings for CYP counsellors have increased by over 40% since 2021, with roles available in schools, NHS services, charities, and private practice.
That’s why S.M.I.L.E. developed the Diploma in Counselling Children and Young People. If you’re a qualified counsellor or psychotherapist ready to take your practice to the next level, this course gives you everything you need to work effectively, ethically, and confidently with children and young people.
The course offers:
• 16 credit points at SCQF Level 11, credit rated by SQA for quality assurance.
• Training focused on establishing meaningful therapeutic relationships across all stages of counselling.
• Strong emphasis on safeguarding, risk assessment, and ethical practice key competencies for anyone working in this vital field.
By joining the S.M.I.L.E. CYP Diploma, you’re not just gaining a qualification – you’re helping close a critical gap in mental health provision. You’re stepping into a rewarding career where you can make a real difference to the lives of children and young people across Scotland and beyond.
Are you ready to be part of the solution?
Find out more about our September 2025 intake and how you can help shape the future of CYP mental health.
The 80 hours will be delivered over 4 weekends (Friday 5pm – 9pm, Saturday & Sunday 9am – 6pm).
- 1st weekend – 5th, 6th and 7th Sept
- 2nd weekend – 3rd, 4th and 5th Oct
- 3rd weekend – 7th, 8th and 9th Nov
- 4th weekend – 28th, 29th and 30th Nov
💛 Every child deserves support. Every counsellor deserves to feel confident giving it.
The dedicated team at SCQF Partnership is kitting out in tartan to make a difference for vulnerable children across Scotland.
On April 27, the big-hearted team will tackle the gruelling 23-mile Mighty Stride Kiltwalk to raise crucial funds for Action for Children Scotland.
Laura Wilding, Donnie Wood, Paul White and Kamila Aitzhanova are stepping up to support a cause that aligns perfectly with their values.
“With over four million children facing poverty in the UK, our team is determined to help Action for Children Scotland provide essential support,” says Laura.
“We’re walking to ensure more young people receive care with love and without judgment, honouring The Promise initiative in Scotland.”
Action for Children delivers vital practical and emotional support for young people while amplifying their voices and driving lasting positive change in their lives.
Kiltwalk is Scotland’s largest mass participation walking event with over 178,000 people taking part since 2016.
The team have set up a JustGiving page for any colleagues or friends who might wish to donate to this worthy cause at https://www.justgiving.com/team/scqfpartnership
“I’m passionate about the value of apprenticeships as a learning pathway to a varied and fulfilled career. It’s a great journey for young people looking for an alternative to university. An apprenticeship allows you to go as far as you want in your career!”
David Balfour is a lifelong advocate of the value of apprenticeships, as well as the career opportunities they open up.
Apprenticeships allow people to earn while they learn, and gain qualifications aligned with national occupational standards. They also offer on-the-job training, allowing employees to gain hands-on experience and confidence in their chosen field.
David’s learning journey
Excited at the prospect of learning through practical work in a professional environment, David decided the Modern Apprenticeship (MA) route was a great fit for him. He left school after 5th year to start an apprenticeship with Diageo in Leven, training as a Production Electrical Control & Instrumentation Technician. It gave him the chance to work, learn on the job and focus on a course at college that interested him.
During this time, he undertook studies from SCQF levels 5 to 8, completing an NC, HNC and HND in Electrical & Electronic Engineering at Adam Smith College (now Fife College). In 2006, David was delighted to be awarded not only the college prize for Best Electronics Student, but also Apprentice of the Year.
David then used his previous study to articulate on to the BSc Engineering at Abertay University. This was followed by a Masters in Risk and Safety Management at SCQF level 11. More recently, he has achieved an MBA with Distinction at Durham University.
He developed a real passion for learning and has really valued and enjoyed all of his education over the years. So much so that he is considering applying for a Doctor of Business Administration program. This would take him right to the top of the SCQF at level 12. But after so many successive years of study he fears that to pursue this opportunity right now would “… lead to divorce…”!
Apprenticeships have value
David feels that his apprenticeship really set him off on a learning journey that has seen him excel in the engineering field over the last two decades. This pathway equipped him with the practical skills and confidence to succeed in the workplace. Something that can’t be taught in a classroom.
In his current role as Maintenance Superintendent at The Oil and Pipelines Agency, he sees apprentices rising through the ranks. He explained: “As an apprentice, if you apply yourself and come with the right attitude, the opportunity can take you as far as you want to go in your career.
“Starting as an apprentice doesn’t limit where your career or learning journey can reach. It creates a solid foundation to build the future you want.”
Evidence to show the value of apprenticeships
Skills Development Scotland has evidence that employers who have taken on Modern Apprentices are positive about the experience. 96% say those who have undertaken an MA are more able to do their job.* They also praised MAs for improving productivity, staff morale, and service and product quality.
So, in considering the value of Modern Apprenticeships, they provide benefits for both the employee and the employer. That’s definitely a win-win all round.
*Source – https://www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk/what-we-do/apprenticeships/modern-apprenticeships
Useful links
Whether you are an employer or an individual, you can find out more about apprenticeships at www.apprenticeships.scot
To find out more about where apprenticeships sit on the SCQF, visit the Interactive Framework.
Inspired by David’s story? Delve into our Modern Apprenticeship case studies,