Returning couldn’t be simpler. In no time at all you could find yourself back in the job you love, making a genuine difference to people’s lives
Please note, the application process for the 2020 Return to Social Work programme has now closed.
If you are an experienced social worker who used to work in a statutory role and wants to return to practice, please help us direct you to the right returner route for you by answering the following question:
How long have you been out of practice?
You are eligible to apply for registration with Social Work England and do not need to meet their return to practice requirements.
Visit the Social Work England website for further information.
If you have practised in the past two years and are still registered with the official regulator, you may continue to practise as you do not have any return to practice requirements.
However, if you would like some support with accessing additional learning resources to refresh your knowledge, please contact us at [email protected].
If you haven’t practised in the last five years and aren’t registered with the official regulator, then you are required to complete 30 days of training to update your knowledge and skills.
This means that you are suitable for our free 30 day flexible training programme.
If you haven’t practised in the last ten years and aren’t registered with the official regulator, then you are required to complete 60 days of training to update your knowledge and skills.
This means that you are suitable for our free 60 day flexible training programme.
Unfortunately, our programme isn’t suitable for individuals who have been out of practice for more than ten years.
If you haven’t practised in over ten years and aren’t registered with the HCPC, please visit Social Work England's website for guidance on next steps.
Please note, the application process for the 2020 Return to Social Work programme has now closed. The dates below are also subject to change due to COVID-19.
Stage 1: Application
Applications will open from 20 November 2019 and close on 30 April 2020.
The application form is split into two parts.
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Part 1 will ask you for basic information about yourself, to assess whether you meet the requirements for the programme.
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Part 2 will ask you for details on your skills and interests.
Please ensure that you complete both parts before the deadline on 30 April 2020.
Stage 2: Interview & Assessment
In this stage you will be asked to complete an interview and an assessment. As our programme is delivered nationally, you can complete this stage virtually and from the comfort of your own home.
As a part of the assessment, you will first be asked to complete a case study. You will then conduct a video interview, where you will answer a series of interview questions. Your video interview will be recorded and reviewed by our training provider.
You will have a period of four weeks to complete both the video interview and the case study.
This period will begin in early May.
Stage 3: On boarding / DBS
Once you have been selected for the programme, you must obtain a portable Enhanced Disclosure Barring Service Certificate (DBS). We will purchase this on your behalf. However, you will need to supply us with the necessary documents to complete your application, including your current passport, proof of address and any supporting documentation for your DBS.
A DBS can take from a 1-6 weeks to be confirmed.
The announcement confirming which candidates are selected for the programme will take place in early June.