What we’re looking for

We are looking for your potential to become an outstanding children’s social worker through our competencies. You must also meet our eligibility criteria.

Eligibility criteria

In addition to demonstrating our competencies throughout your application, you must meet the following criteria to join Approach Social Work.

• Have at least a 2.2 (predicted or obtained) in an undergraduate honours degree (or international equivalent)
• Have obtained GCSE English Language at Grade C/4 or above (or accepted equivalent qualification)
• Possess the right to work and study in the UK (including access to public funds) for the duration of the programme (until September 2030)
• Be resident in England by the time the programme commences
• Not be a qualified social worker

Our competencies

You don’t need any particular experience to apply to Approach Social Work. Throughout the application process we will assess your ability by looking for our competencies:

Values, motivation and interests

Relationships and communication

• Empathy with professional boundaries
• Clear, respectful and adaptive communication 

Analysis and judgement

• Analytical thinking and curiosity
• Judgement and decision making under uncertainty and pressure 

Self-awareness, reflection and resilience

• Self‑awareness and reflexivity 
• Emotional resilience and seeking help 

Leading with professionalism

• Leadership

In addition to these competencies, throughout the process we will be looking for evidence of your ability to manage your time effectively and your professional conduct. This includes your ability to quickly grasp complex tasks or concepts, and plan ahead to complete tasks on time. We will be looking for professionalism in your presentation, communication and in how you relate to others.

Diversity and inclusion

Approach Social Work, including elements like our practice hub model, draws its strength from diversity and difference. We are looking for people who can bring different perspectives and experiences to the programme and are committed to advocating for the diverse communities that social workers serve.

We are proud of our commitment to increasing the diversity of our Approach Social Work cohorts and supporting applicants from underrepresented backgrounds.