Latest news : Social work scheme for graduates

The Step Up to Social Work programme is for graduates and professionals wanting to change career and train to become social workers while gaining experience working within a local authority 26/03/2013

The 14-month government scheme by the Department for Education will also allow the trainees to work towards a Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work and qualification allowing them to practise as a social worker.

Trainees will receive one-to-one support throughout the workplace, as well as guidance from their university tutors. They are guaranteed a bursary of over £19,000 while they train.

Edward Timpson, minister for children and families said, 'We 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.'

The application window opened on 11 March 2013 and will close on 17 May 2013.  There will be several stages in the assessment process, including an application and attendance at an assessment centre.

Candidates can apply by completing a Step Up to Social Work application form .

The government has spent over £184 million since 2010 on the social work bursary and Step Up programme as part of wider reforms to drive up the skills and experience of the workforce.

The first 168 Step Up participants gained their qualification in social work last year, and over 80% are now working for the local authority that they trained with.