Social work training programme opens to new candidates
Neil Puffett
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Half of England's local authorities have signed up for a new round of a government social worker training programme.
A total of 74 councils are participating in the latest round of the 14-month Step Up to Social Work programme.
The programme aims to help people work towards a social work qualification while getting intensive workplace experience.
Children’s minister Edward Timpson said: “I want to attract the highest calibre candidates to become social workers for vulnerable children.
“Step Up to Social Work offers a training route to exceptional people who can draw on their wider professional and life experience.
“They can deliver the very best for the children and families who need them, and feel rewarded by making a real difference to children’s lives.”
Last year, 168 people on the Step Up programme gained a qualification in social work, with more than 80 per cent now working for the local authority that they trained with.
The course is open to career changers and graduates who have experience of working with children and young people.
Trainees will be supported throughout with one-to-one support in the workplace, as well as support from university tutors. They are also guaranteed a bursary of more than £19,000 while they complete their training.
The application process closes on 17 May.
