Your journey begins with Readiness for Practice (13 July – 14 August 2026), a five-week mix of online learning and five in-person days led by academics and sector experts. After this you’ll have a summer break (15 August – 6 September) before your placement begins.
Programme overview
Year one
Getting ready to practice
Working with your hub
After this foundational training, you’ll start your year-long placement in a local authority social work team on 7 September 2026. You’ll work in a close-knit hub of trainees, led by an experienced social worker and supported by your practice tutor.
Expanding your knowledge
You’ll begin supporting children directly, gradually taking on more responsibility. Regular skill days and academic study will deepen your knowledge and prepare you for practice.
Qualifying as a social worker
At the end of year one, you’ll qualify as a social worker and register with Social Work England. You’ll also join the Frontline Fellowship, a growing community of social workers trained by Frontline.
Year two
Newly qualified social worker
Year two is when you start to manage your own caseload, while continuing to study and develop your skills, knowledge and professional confidence.
Continued support
You’ll keep receiving guidance from your Frontline practice tutor, local authority employer and fellow trainees, including regular hub meetings.
Year three and beyond
Completing your master’s degree
Your third and final year consolidates everything you have learned, as you carry out a research project and complete the final academic credits of your social work master’s degree. We also offer leadership coaching in year three to support you further.
Joining the Frontline Fellowship
Approach Social Work is just the start of your career. As part of the Fellowship, you’ll continue to receive support, training and opportunities to grow, while making a difference for children across society.