Apprentice social worker Review

Working for local authority as an apprentice social worker Carrying a social work case load under the supervision of a mentor who is a qualified social work manager on a frontline children’s social work team Carrying out meetings completing assessments and visiting children and families

I have learnt how to complete assessments work with children and families in an anti oppressive manner. Completing paperwork and prioritizing case loads often working under pressure. I have learnt how to apply theory learn at uni to my practice and reflect on how I can improve my work

It has been difficult due to lockdown and working from home the lack of interaction and gaining experience from other professionals has been missed. There has been little time to complete assignments working full time on a frontline social work team is challenging I feel the constant balance of work

There is support available from tutors during reviews it has been difficult not attending uni and due to COVID uni being online has felt isolating at times you learn far more in lectures with other colleagues it is unlikely as many questions will be asked in online lectures

My team are very supportive we have daily meetings and managers are available on teams to discuss cases I receive regular supervision where I am able to reflect on my caseload. I have received praise for carrying out good work and feel I can ask my managers anything without judgement

I receive online support from lecturers who offer 1-1 sessions via teams if needed. During COVID it has been difficult to continue to work on a frontline team as a student and also focus on studies. I often felt I was juggling between assignments and work load

My training has enabled me to put theory to practice I have learnt how to reflect on my work to improve practice. I have learnt about how values and ethics are important to have as a social worker

Not possible due to COVID there are team catch ups daily and each team is in the office on a rota basis to enable you to discuss cases with colleagues

Yes

I feel supported and lucky to be able to access a degree whilst working at the same time. Becoming a social worker has allowed me to use skills already gained as a family support worker and put them into practice

Discuss any worries with managers they are very supportive and will help to guide you through your cases and ensure you feel confident in your practice