Laming addressed the first intake of 30 trainees at the academy, which has been created in response to a recommendation in his safeguarding report following the Baby P case.
The trainees will work in small groups during the year-long programme and will have practical training and reduced case loads.
Laming said: "Hertfordshire County Council deserves great credit for pioneering this academy for newly qualified staff. This initiative will promote both the competence and confidence of these key workers and, most of all, will ensure a high quality of services to the general public."
John Harris, director of children, schools and families at Hertfordshire County Council, said: "The tragic death of Baby Peter in Haringey, which occurred despite regular involvement from social workers, has shown that those involved in child protection must be highly skilled at perceiving the risks that may surround each child they visit.
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