Aspiring social workers encouraged to 'step up' to social work

Applications are now open for step up to social work, the Department for Education's initiative to encourage more people into the profession.

This 14-month, full-time training programme offers a unique opportunity to receive support while training for a rewarding career in social work. It is designed for people who want to become social workers but do not have a degree in social work.

Eligible applicants will benefit from a combination of academic study and real-life social work experience through placements at Portsmouth City Council.

Those who successfully complete the programme are awarded a postgraduate diploma in social work, enabling them to register and practice as a social worker.

Since its launch in 2010, the programme has supported 2,900 social workers to enter the profession across England.

The Department for Education covers the cost of tuition fees and provides a tax-free bursary of £21,995 over the duration of the programme to support successful applicants during their training.

Sam Bushby, deputy director, children's social care at Portsmouth City Council said:

"Social work is a challenging but rewarding career where you can make a real difference to the lives of children and families.

For aspiring social workers, the step up to social work programme provides skills, knowledge, and invaluable real-world experience to start a career in social work."

Step up to social work is now welcoming applications from aspiring social workers who have experience of working with vulnerable children and families. Applicants will participate in assessment centres in June/July 2025, and if successful, will start the programme in January 2026.

The programme runs every two years, so don't miss your opportunity to apply before the deadline on 25 March 2025.

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