Trainee Social Worker

Approach Social Work (formerly known as the Frontline programme)

Designed and delivered by social work charity Frontline, we teach social work differently. By blending learning and practice, what you discover in theory is eased into real-life settings, supervised by a social worker. Gaining your postgraduate diploma within 12 months, will be the first step in your life-changing career.

You’ll learn how to connect with children, young people, parents and carers. How to gain all important trust, so a family opens their door to you again. You’ll gain the technical knowledge and build on your relational skills. We’ll give you the time and support to develop your approach, with confidence. 

You earn while you learn, and once you gain your qualification you’ll step right into a job. And through our Frontline Fellowship, you’ll join a network of peers intent on transforming social work practice in England.

Be part of something bigger. Join the next generation of social workers.

What’s in it for you?

• Earn as you learn with a salary of up to £34,000 from year two.  
• Qualify as a social worker and complete a fully funded master's degree. 
• Get high-quality training and supervision from experienced social workers, academics and coaches in a rich, supportive environment. 
• Become part of the Frontline Fellowship and receive ongoing support and training throughout your career.

What to expect as a trainee social worker

Year 1:

• Start with five weeks of intense online study, including five in-person sessions, led by experts in social work theory.
• Begin your 12-month placement in a local council social work team, where you'll work closely with fellow trainees and an experienced social worker. You'll gradually take on more responsibility in supporting children and families.
• Qualify as a social worker by the end of your first year.

Year 2:

• Manage your own caseload, building on your skills and confidence.
• Engage in ongoing study to further develop your professional abilities.
• Receive continued support from Frontline tutors, your employer and fellow trainees.

Year 3:

• Conduct a research project and complete the academic credits needed for your fully-funded social work master's degree.
• Receive leadership coaching to enhance your professional capabilities.

Who we’re looking for 

We are looking for your potential to become an outstanding children’s social worker and leader, empowering families to achieve positive change. No specific experience is required to apply. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and a commitment to advocating for the communities’ social workers serve. We're dedicated to fostering diversity in our programme and supporting applicants from underrepresented backgrounds.

You will also meet the following criteria: 

• Have at least a 2.2 (predicted or obtained) in an undergraduate honours degree (or international equivalent) 
• Have obtained GCSE English Language at Grade C/4 or above (or approved equivalent qualification) 
• Possess the right to work and study in the UK (including access to public funds) for the duration of the programme (until September 2028) 
• Be resident in England by the time the programme commences 
• Not be a qualified social worker

Be part of something bigger. Join the next generation of social workers.