The LGA has welcomed clarification from Government regarding the use of the postgraduate (Level 7) route within the Social Worker (Integrated Degree) Apprenticeship Level 6.
The Local Government Association (LGA) has welcomed clarification from Government regarding the use of the postgraduate (Level 7) route within the Social Worker (Integrated Degree) Apprenticeship Level 6.Â
Over recent weeks, the LGA has been working closely with councils, higher education providers and sector partners to understand the implications of apprenticeship funding rule changes and their potential impact on local government’s social work workforce.
Following evidence gathered from more than forty local authorities, North East ADASS, universities and representative bodies, the LGA raised concerns with Government regarding the potential impact on workforce planning, recruitment and future workforce supply.
Government has now confirmed that Funding Rule 68.3 applies only to non-mandatory qualifications and that, in the case of the Social Worker (Integrated Degree) Apprenticeship (ST0510), both undergraduate and postgraduate delivery routes are currently regarded as valid mandatory options within the standard.
The clarification provides welcome reassurance for employers who had already recruited learners, committed university places and incorporated social work apprenticeships into their workforce plans.
However, Government has also confirmed that it expects Level 6 apprenticeship standards to contain only Level 6 knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) and that it is continuing to work with Skills England to review standards of this nature. Whilst the Level 7 option remains available at present, Government has indicated that it does not anticipate funding Level 7 delivery within Level 6 apprenticeship standards in the longer term.
The Department has confirmed that any future changes will be subject to appropriate notice before implementation.