Social Work Apprenticeships

The Children’s Social Care team now offer several full-time Social Work Apprenticeships within the Children and Families and Initial response teams across Devon. The scheme allows you to gain ‘on the job’ experience while working towards an honours degree in Social Work with the Open University (OU). There will be off-the-job protected training time to allow you to engage with the academic element of the scheme.

This 3.5-year apprenticeship is an excellent way for you to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become a qualified social worker. Completing your apprenticeship with us in Children’s social care has many benefits, including an attractive salary, an excellent package of benefits (the advantage of being a DCC employee), and the support of a dedicated mentor.

You will also have access to a wide range of learning and development opportunities within Children’s Social Care to help you progress within your role. In addition, DCC will also cover the cost of your study fees for you. However, you must stay with DCC for two years after achieving the qualification.

Social Work England (SWE) has approved the OU degree programme. After completing the apprenticeship, you will gain a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Social Work and can register with SWE. Upon completion, you will also be able to apply for a newly qualified social worker role with DCC and progress onto our ASYE programme to continue your career and transition into an experienced social worker.

What does the degree part of the apprenticeship involve?

The BA (Hons) programme has six modules in total, and we hope with support and dedicated training time, you will aim to undertake two modules each year. The first two will provide an introduction to the organisation of social care in the UK and develop your awareness of the different components of good social work practice. The third module covers legal issues related to social care and social work, including regulating social care decision-making.

You will then progress through two practice-focused (work-based) learning modules, which include a defined period of assessed practice learning. In these work-based and blended learning modules, you must reflect on your role and document your acquisition of skills and competencies in your portfolio. The final module consolidates learning in preparation for the apprenticeship End-point Assessment.

For more information on the programme and a more thorough overview, visit the OU website.

To be eligible for the apprenticeship you must:

• Be over 16 years old and not in full-time education.
• Have the right to live and work in England.
• Spend at least 50% of your working hours in England.
• Have evidence of suitable academic ability, i.e., GCSE grade 9–4 (A*–C). Or Functional/Key Skills Level 2 in English and maths, or a certified equivalent.
• Have an enhanced DBS with lists check (checks against all registers including both children and vulnerable adults) dated within one year prior to starting the programme.
• Achieve an International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) score of 7 (if English is not your first language).
• Demonstrate IT competence through self-declaration.
• Have direct and varied work experience with children and families. With the potential to take on the challenges and responsibilities of a qualified social worker.
• Be keen to learn and motivated to succeed.
• A full driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Feedback from a current apprentice

I began my Social Work Degree Apprenticeship in 2023 at 21 years old, and I am now in my final year. Before starting the programme, I worked in a special educational setting where I supported a range of children, including those on Child in Need and Child Protection plans. During this time, I became increasingly aware of the wider challenges families faced and found myself wanting to do more to support them. I respected the role social workers played and felt the apprenticeship offered a meaningful pathway for me to develop the skills and knowledge needed to make a bigger difference.

My experience as a social work apprentice has been incredibly rewarding. The programme allows me to earn while I learn, working towards my degree with a dedicated study day each week alongside my role. I’ve also benefitted from regular training opportunities, which have supported both my academic learning and professional development. Throughout the apprenticeship, I have completed two placements in different areas of practice, as well as being part of a team for the remainder of the programme. This has given me a well-rounded experience and the chance to learn from a variety of professionals and service areas.

Being able to learn on the job while building academic knowledge has strengthened both my confidence and my practice. I’ve particularly valued developing relationships with children and families and contributing to positive change in their lives. Working alongside experienced social workers has helped me grow my skills and develop my own professional identity.

The apprenticeship has been a supportive and enriching route into social work. It has provided me with a strong foundation for my future career, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is passionate about making a difference and is looking for a practical, hands-on pathway into the profession.

Tori, Social Work Apprentice
(Children and Families – Exeter and East)