Are you interested in a career in Social Work working with children and families with Dorset Council?
Social work is a challenging but rewarding career which can make a real difference for children and families.
We are looking for strong graduates who have experience of working with children, young people and families and who can demonstrate their maturity and emotional resilience.
Step Up to Social Work is a 14-month, full-time programme funded by the Department for Education. It is being delivered locally by a regional partnership including Dorset Council, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, Wiltshire Council and Bournemouth University.
The course gives trainees an intensive, hands-on experience of working in a real-life social work role working with children and families within a local authority children’s services alongside academic learning.
Do you have what it takes?
You are eligible if you can demonstrate you already have:
- A minimum 2:1 level 6 degree qualification – for example, a degree with honours
- Or, a minimum 2:2 honours degree plus a higher degree (level 7 or above).
Plus
- Grade C or above GSCE in English/ English Language and Maths (or approved equivalent).
- Have experience of voluntary or paid work with children, young people or families.
Those successful in gaining a place will have all their course fees paid and will be entitled to a bursary of £19,833 tax free for the duration of the course.
On completing the programme, students will obtain a Post-Graduate Diploma in Social Work, allowing them to register and practice as a social worker, and to apply for any social worker vacancies available.
More information and to apply.
Tim Little from Dorset just finishing at Bournemouth university as part of the partnership. He said:
“As well as qualifying during a worldwide pandemic, which was a feat in itself, a main highlight of the Step Up to Social Work (SUTSW) programme has been the opportunity it has given me to really use and develop my existing skills.
“The fast- paced combination of academic work and placement learning has challenged me to dig deep and prove my capabilities.
“I have grown in confidence and have been told that I am finding the professional voice for children and families which motivated me.
“To anyone thinking of applying, I’d say go for it!
Cllr Andrew Parry, Portfolio Holder for Children, Education, Skills and Early Help said:
“Dorset needs more talented graduates for the crucial work that social workers do. Step Up demonstrate our dedication to creating jobs and opportunities across Dorset as part of the government’s Plan for Jobs, as well as doing our upmost to protect vulnerable families and children. It’s also a brilliant opportunity for graduates interested in developing their career in social work.”
Online applications are open until to 7 April.
Students can expect to start the programme in January 2022, and completing their training in March 2023.
For further information and to apply go to Step Up to Social Work: information for applicants
For more information about the programme and to register your interest in one of the following online information session email sutsw@bcpcouncil.gov.uk
Step Up To Social Work online briefing session are taking place on:
9 March at 4pm
10 March at 4pm
17 March at 9am
29 March at 12:30pm
