Routes into social work

We offer a route to social work through an apprenticeship or the fast-track Step Up to Social Work programme.

Social Worker Degree Apprenticeship

The Social Worker Degree Apprenticeship is a 3 year practice-based learning programme. It combines:

• on and off the job learning and development
• delivered flexibly around the demands of your workplace

Apprentices will develop new skills and knowledge whilst carrying out real work as part of a team in one of our Locality teams. In 2026 we are pleased to be able to offer a Post Graduate route to our apprenticeship programme. 

Through completion of this apprenticeship, learners will gain: 

• practice experience and evidence of assessed competency in the workplace 
• new skills and knowledge preparing them to take on more demanding roles within social care delivery
• a professionally qualifying degree in social work 

Social Work Degree Apprentices at Dorset Council start in social work student roles within the Locality teams. After finishing the apprenticeship, they move on to the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment programme.

Application guidance

We recruit yearly for our Social Work Apprentice programme. We accept applications from both internal staff and external candidates.

We partnered with the Open University to deliver the Social Work Degree Apprenticeship. Applicants must meet the requirements of both the University and Dorset Council to qualify for the programme.

Candidates must:

• have at least of 2 years’ experience of working in a face-to-face role with individuals or lived experience  
• be able to show the potential to study at undergraduate degree level (Level 3 Diploma and above)   
• hold a Maths and English GCSE Grade C (4) or above or an equivalent maths and English qualification

Apprentices will need to work 30 hours or more per week to meet the assessed practice learning requirements.

To apply you will need to submit: 

• an Open University application form  
• contact details and references from 2 referees  
• a personal statement 
• evidence of maths and English qualifications
• a completed equal opportunity form

When we advertise the role, you can request the necessary forms from us.

Step Up to Social Work program 

Step up to social work is an intensive, 14-month, full-time programme with a focus on child and family social work. The programme is delivered by regional partnerships, which are partnerships between local authority employers and universities. 

The Step Up to Social Work program is offered in partnership with: 

• Dorset Council 
• Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council 
• Wiltshire Council 

Our higher education institution is Bournemouth University. 

To qualify, you need: 

• a 2:1 degree (in any field) 
• experience working with children, young people, or families (paid or voluntary) 

You will: 

• receive £21,995 bursary per year 
• complete 170 days of work-based experience within our social work teams  

Contact

Email: swrecruitment@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk