Competencies

We are looking for your potential to become an outstanding children’s social worker and leader, able to empower families to achieve positive change.

Throughout the application process we will assess your ability through our competencies. Please consider each competency carefully at every stage of the application process.

Values, motivation and interests

You have researched children’s social care and have a realistic understanding of the work.
You are motivated to help children and families with fairness and dignity.
You show curiosity about people and systems, and believe they can change.
You are committed to learning, academic study and personal development.

Relationships and communication

Empathy with professional boundaries

You respect other people’s perspectives and emotional states.
You show compassion without judgement or losing objectivity, while maintaining professional boundaries.
You understand the need for professional boundaries.

Clear, respectful and adaptive communication

You communicate ideas clearly and respectfully when speaking and writing.
You can adapt your tone and style for different people and situations.
You remain calm, non‑judgemental and purposeful when challenged.

Analysis and judgement

Analytical thinking and curiosity

You seek relevant information, and ask appropriate clarifying questions, before making a decision.
You identify patterns, inconsistencies, risks and missing information.
You show curiosity about context and alternative explanations.

Judgement and decision making under uncertainty and pressure

You make timely, appropriate decisions in ambiguous situations and under pressure.
You recognise the limits of your own knowledge.,
You balance competing risks, and escalate concerns appropriately.

Self-awareness, reflection and resilience

Self‑awareness and reflexivity

You recognise that your personal experiences, identity and values shape how you see others.
You understand your impact on others, noticing bias or blind spots.
You adjust your behaviour when you receive new information or feedback.

Emotional resilience and seeking help

You have a realistic understanding of the emotional challenge, pressure and uncertainty faced by social workers.
You can regulate your emotions and persevere through difficulty.
You can recognise when you need support, and ask for help appropriately, rather than struggling alone.

Leading with professionalism

Leadership

You respect people’s time, follow through on commitments and take accountability.
You challenge assumptions, bias or unfairness in others in a respectful way.
You promote fairness, safety and dignity.
You collaborate well and influence others to achieve positive outcomes.

Find out more about our application process.