Social Work Apprenticeship Information session
We are offering a fantastic opportunity to begin your journey into children’s social work. A fully funded apprenticeship pathway which:
combines paid employment
high‑quality training, and
outstanding support throughout
Children and Families Service
Following our ‘Good with Outstanding features’ Ofsted judgement (July 2024), we remain committed to building a strong, resilient and highly skilled social work workforce.
We believe Cornwall’s children deserve the very best.
We are seeking applicants with:
strong values
an abiding curiosity
motivation, and
a commitment to humane, relationship‑based practice who are ready to take their first step toward a social work career.
The Children and Families Social Work Apprenticeship offers
a full salary throughout
with all training funded
enabling you to grow your skills while making a meaningful difference to children and families.
We offer two apprenticeship pathways through the Open University:
an Undergraduate Degree Apprenticeship, and
a Postgraduate Apprenticeship (for those already holding a relevant degree)
Find out more about an apprenticeship
Social Work Traineeship
If you are interested in pursuing a career in Social Work, join us at our information session to find out more about our offer.
Tuesday 30 June 2026
10am to 12.30pm
Via Microsoft Teams
To be considered, you must:
Be currently working directly with children and families (or have previously done so for at least one year)
Demonstrate personal responsibility for the quality and consistency of your practice
Show motivation and passion for working with children and families
Have strong communication and relationship‑building skills
Have a full UK driving licence and a regular access to a car
Commit to completing your:
Early Career Development Framework. This was formerly called Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE), and
early social work career within Cornwall’s children’s services
hold the required academic qualifications:
GCSE English and Maths (Grade 9–4 / A–C / Functional Skills Level 2)* – evidence required
For postgraduate route: Either a 2:1 Hons Degree in a relevant field, or 2:2 degree with direct experience in the field
Additional requirements:
Ability to undertake distance learning with the Open University
Ability to work full‑time
A full UK driving licence and regular access to a car
Commitment to working for Children and Family Services for three years post‑qualification
We welcome applications from internal and external applicants who meet the criteria above.
What you will get in return
We are committed to being an employer of choice, offering
strong leadership
flexible working, and
a comprehensive rewards and benefits package
You will receive:
A salary as a Social Work Apprentice throughout training
All university fees funded via the Apprenticeship levy
Support from qualified Practice Educators
High‑quality practice placements
A guaranteed Newly Qualified Social Worker (NQSW) interview on successful qualification
Access to an exceptional learning and development offer
Supportive leadership, reflective supervision and wellbeing resources
Access to Community Care Inform and Research in Practice
26 days paid annual leave (increasing with service), plus bank holidays
Access to the lease car scheme
To book your place, or make an enquiry, please email us at PSWpracticeeducation@cornwall.gov.uk.