Pathway 4

For practice leaders who have responsibility across the whole local system for child and family social work practice and overseeing practitioners and leaders.

Why apply to Pathway 4?

Pathway 4 will give you evidence-informed tips, tools and approaches to: 

• lead innovation and advocate for change 
• navigate and influence political and corporate systems 
• strategically embed a culture of anti-racist and anti-oppressive practice 
• use data, research and best practice to measure success, improve service delivery and manage risk 
• minimise bureaucracy and maximise direct work that makes the most difference to children and families 
• maintain organisational morale and resilience in challenging times 
• gain a greater understanding of Ofsted.

Depending on whether you are in-role or aspirant, you will have an opportunity to hear from inspectors via a workshop or shadow an Ofsted inspection.

On completing the programme you will receive a certificate of completion and CPD record. The CPD record provides details of your learning and supports you to log your CPD for professional registration.

You can enjoy exclusive access leadership networks, including joining the Frontline Fellowship, a growing community of social workers trained by Frontline. In the Fellowship you can continue to develop your skills, share excellent practice and turn your insight into innovations, with continued support from Frontline.

Completion of the aspirant pathway prepares you for promotion to practice leader roles and completion of the in-role pathway will prepare you for accessing the UPON programme for directors of children’s services.

What does Pathway 4 involve?

Pathway 4 is a 12-month programme with a time commitment of approximately 11 days, including two residentials (2 days / 2 nights).

The programme is fully funded by the Department of Education, so there is no charge to you or your employer. However, it’s vital that you attend all sessions and are given sufficient time to complete the self-study modules to ensure you can gain the full benefit of the programme.

Who is Pathway 4 for?

• In-role practice leaders: you will have day-to-day operational responsibility across the whole local system for child and family social work practice, ensuring it operates correctly and overseeing frontline practitioners and leaders.
• For example, assistant directors, directors of services.

and

• Aspirant practice leaders: experienced heads of service (or equivalent) who are motivated to develop their leadership skills and progress into a practice leader role.