It’s an exciting time for Children’s Services. In November 2021, Ofsted rated us good with outstanding leadership. We are continuing to make our services even better to help the children and families of Dorset. We do this by building strong relationships, so they can be the best they can be.
Dorset is one of three places in the country chosen to test the delivery of key reforms across the sector. This is part of the Families First for Children programme. We are proud that our fantastic work was recognised.
We understand that your first year as a social worker is so important for your career. The transition from student to social worker can be challenging. You will receive support from a team with a wealth of experience and knowledge, including our:
- Principal Social Worker
- ASYE Coordinator
- Advanced Practitioners
- ASYE Mentors
The programme will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need. This programme follows the Knowledge and skills statements and the professional capabilities framework.
We will:
- have an introductory meeting to discuss your needs and goals
- review your progress together every 3 months
- provide one-on-one reflective supervision and mentoring from an experienced social worker
- offer one-on-one case supervision from your team manager
- hold online support sessions with our Principal Social Worker every 6 weeks
- conduct monthly face-to-face workshops led by the Principal Social Worker, Practice Leads, and other experienced social workers
- give you specific ASYE training and learning opportunities, including shadowing
- provide access to mandatory and core social work training
- give you protected time to support your reflective practice and develop your ASYE portfolio
- reduce your caseload
- provide access to online resources to support you during your ASYE year
Level 2 social work and beyond
After successfully completing your ASYE, you’ll have access to our career progression support. This will help you build confidence, experience, interests, and knowledge to advance your social work career with us.
Our offer includes:
- a Level 2 to 3 career progression pathway
- opportunities to apply for postgraduate continuing professional development (CPD) courses
- coaching and mentoring
- apprenticeships
As a Level 3 Social Worker, you will:
- mentor new ASYEs, either in preparation for or as part of the Bournemouth University Practice Education course
- continue to access CPD opportunities through our learning and development programmes
- explore leadership pathways to progress to Team Manager or Advanced Practitioner
