Step Up To Social Work is a 14-month, full-time programme. It is designed for people who want to become a social worker but do not have a degree in social work. Successful applicants train through a combination of academic study and hands on social work experience in a local authority.
The programme is delivered by Essex County Council in partnership with universities within regions across England. Learning is conducted face to face in a central regional location or remotely. Participants receive a bursary of £21,995 over the duration of the programme to support them whilst in training.
Hear from Lucinda, who has previously undertaken the scheme:
Why did you choose Social Work as a career?
After working with children whilst at university, I then got a job in the Essex County Council CYPPS team and then the Children and Families Hub. I really enjoyed these roles but was drawn to more direct work with children and families. Social work had always appealed to me as a career, and I think a lot of my job experiences had been leading me towards social work.
What was your experience like on the Step Up programme?
I loved everything about the Step Up programme. There is a small group of lecturers who are really warm and supportive. The programme also worked really well for me in the sense that it is fast-paced but a shorter programme balancing time at university and in practice. I especially enjoyed my placement in Children and Families and when qualifying I stayed in the team I was placed in for my 100 day placement (Family Support & Protection). Although adjusting from a student to a qualified social worker is a big transition, I feel the Step Up programme really supported me to feel ready for the progression. I also made some lovely friends on the programme who I still meet up with regularly.
What advice would you give to applicants applying to the Eastern Region?
There will be lots of opportunities for learning whilst on the Step Up programme, my advice would be to be open about your interests and proactive in seeking learning opportunities that are interesting to you, but to also be open to new experiences as you may surprise yourself.
Interested in signing up for the ‘Step Up to Social Work’ scheme? Visit our campaign microsite here.
