The Step Up to Social Work programme is a unique opportunity to receive support whilst you train for a new career in social work. On the 15-month training programme, you will receive hands-on experience of working in real-life social work teams. Once you’ve successfully completed the course, you’ll be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Social Work, enabling you to apply to register and practice as a social worker. 

Councillor Jane Jones, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care & Disabilities, said: “The Step Up to Social Work programme is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. 

"We are committed to supporting our trainees every step of the way, ensuring they have the skills and experience needed to excel in their social work careers."

The programme covers: 

• The full cost of your university tuition fees on the programme 
• A tax-free bursary of £21,995 paid over the duration of the programme to support you during your training. 

The programme will start in January 2026 and runs until March 2027.

Applications open on 17th February 2025, but you can register your interest here now: Home | Step Up to Social Work 

Entry criteria

We are looking for dedicated individuals who have experience of working with vulnerable children, young people, families or vulnerable adults and who can demonstrate their maturity and emotional resilience. We encourage applications from a diverse range of candidates and aim to have a workforce that represents the society we serve. 

To apply you must have: 

• A minimum 2:2 degree qualification (Level 6), in any subject (or predicted if you are a final year student). 
• GCSEs in English or English Language at grade C or above, or the new Grade 4 and above, or an approved equivalent. 
• A minimum of six months full-time (or equivalent) experience of working with children, young people, families, carers or vulnerable adults, either in a paid or voluntary capacity.
• You will need to show all of your original certificates to us as part of the application and assessment process. If you cannot find these, you can order replacements online. 

Programme Delivery

The programme is delivered locally in a choice of Boroughs including Barking and Dagenham, Bromley, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest. The academic programme is delivered by London Metropolitan University. 

If you would like further details you can also join one of our online information sessions by clicking the link on the date and times below:

Session One: Tuesday 4 March 18.30 – 19.30 via MS Teams 

Step Up information Session - 4th March 2025 - Please click to join the meeting

Session Two: Saturday 15 March 10.30 – 11.30 via MS Teams

Step Up Information Session - 15th March 2025 - Please click to join the meeting 

Session Three: Wednesday 19 March 12.30 – 13.30 via MS Teams

Step Up Information Session - 19th March 2025 - Please click to join the meeting