Still time to apply to ‘Step Up’ to social work

15 March 2023

two hands holding bright coloured jigsaw pierces and the words "be the difference"

There is still time to apply for the intensive and rewarding career programme Step Up to Social Work.

Launched and funded by the Department for Education this is a unique opportunity for eligible people to receive support while training to start a new career in social work.

Social work is a career through which you can make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable children and families. Wirral Council has led the regional partnership for the Step Up to Social Work programme for seven cohorts, successfully training more than 200 social workers.

During the Step Up to Social Work programme, successful applicants will receive hands-on experience of working in a real-life social work role through placements in local authorities within Cheshire and Merseyside, whilst undertaking their qualification.

Those who successfully complete the course will be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work, enabling them to apply to register and practice as a social worker.

Under the programme the Department for Education will cover the cost of university tuition on the programme and provide a tax-free bursary of £19,833, paid over the duration of the course, to support learners during their training.

Applications to the programme close on 3 April 2023, with interviews scheduled for June/July 2023, and a January 2024 programme start date. To apply click here.

Step Up to Social Work entry criteria

To apply to the programme, you’ll need a minimum of:

A 2:2 (level 6) degree qualification, for example an honours degree or a graduate certificate (this can be in any subject).
GCSEs in English or English Language and Mathematics at grade C or above, or the new grade 4 and above (or an approved equivalent).
Six months’ full-time (or equivalent) direct experience, either in a paid or voluntary capacity, of working with vulnerable children, young people and/or families, carers or vulnerable adults.

Applicants will need to show all of their original certificates as part of the application and assessment process. If you cannot find these, you can order replacements online.

Applications from a diverse range of candidates are encouraged as the programme aims to have a workforce that represents the society that they serve.

For more information, visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/step-up-to-social-work.