Do you have what it takes to ‘Step Up’ to social work?

January 9, 2025

Southend-on-Sea City Council will be offering a unique opportunity for aspiring social workers from Monday 17 February 2025.

The “Step Up to Social Work” programme will provide successful applicants with support while they are training to start a new career in social work. On the 14-month training programme, candidates will receive hands-on experience of working in a real-life social work role through placements in Southend-on-Sea City Council, whilst undertaking a qualification. Upon successful completion of the course, they will be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work, enabling them to apply to register and practice as a social worker.

The Department for Education will cover the cost of candidates’ university tuition on the programme and will provide a tax-free bursary of £21,995 paid over the duration of the programme to support them during training.

Social work is both a challenging and rewarding career through which professionals can make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable children and families. Social workers need to build relationships with families facing difficult times, show a lot of patience and be a good listener. They also need good observational skills, analytical thinking and sound judgement, to make the right decisions and protect children. Social work regularly tests resilience, stamina and resolve - all of which is needed to succeed in the profession.

A full list of requirements for application can be found at Step up to social work.

Applications for the programme will open on Monday 17 February 2025, with assessment centres scheduled for June/July 2025, and a January 2026 programme start date. The programme runs once every two years, dependent on government funding, so if you are interested, make sure you don’t miss out on your chance to apply.

Cllr Maxine Sadza, cabinet member for social care and healthier communities, said: “The Step Up to Social Work programme is a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in a career in social work. The bursary grant means that successful applicants will be supported whilst they learn on the job through placements at the council. If you are interested, please ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria and if you do, we welcome you to apply”.

If you have any further questions about the Step Up to Social Work programme, please email Southend Social Care Academy.