Step up to career in social work in Wolverhampton

Thursday, 25 February 2021 17:54

The City of Wolverhampton Council is encouraging people to consider a new faster route into children's social work.

The window is now open for applications to the West Midlands Step Up to Social Work programme, a fast-track training programme leading to a Post Graduate Diploma in Social Work through which people could potentially start a career as a children’s social worker within 14 months.

The course will be running from January 2022 to March 2023 and is delivered at the University of Birmingham. Participants will receive a tax-free bursary of over £19,000 towards living costs and any childcare arrangements. In addition, all course fees are paid.

At the end of the course, successful candidates are expected to practice in Wolverhampton for at least two years, or with one of the other organisations in the West Midlands which are partnering with the programme.

Councillor John Reynolds, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in children’s social work and we would encourage people to apply for this fantastic programme.

“It’s also an exciting time to think about joining the City of Wolverhampton Council as a social worker. As an Ofsted ‘Good’ rated service, we are committed to providing the best care and support to our children and families and to our employees.”

The application window will be open until 7 April 2021. Potential applicants need a minimum of a 2:1 honours degree or a 2:2 honours degree plus a higher degree at level 7 or above, and at least six months' experience working with vulnerable children, young people and families. Candidates also require English and Maths GCSE qualifications at grade C or above, or equivalent.

There will be an opportunity to virtually meet with the Programme Manager and Academic Director on Monday 1 March from 1pm–2pm or 5pm–6pm, consisting of a brief welcome and frequently asked questions presentation and a live question and answer session. To book a place, please email michelle.jones@stoke.gov.uk.

For more information about the West Midlands Step Up to Social Work programme, and to apply, please visit www.gov.uk/guidance/step-up-to-social-work-information-for-applicants.