Social Work BA (Hons) Integrated Degree Apprenticeship
Subject and course type
- Social Work and Social Care
- Undergraduate
- Degree Apprenticeship
Kingston University’s Social Work Degree Apprenticeship is co-produced with London employers, offering a unique and tailored learning experience. Here you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and qualities needed to excel as a social work practitioner.
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Advance your career while making a difference in Social Work
Make a real impact while learning
The course ensures strong support from both the University and your employer throughout your studies. Upon successful completion, you’ll be eligible for registration with Social Work England, ready to make a meaningful impact in the field.
Throughout the course, you’ll develop essential skills in ethics, diversity, psychology, sociology, social policy and law for social work practice. Working alongside experienced professionals, you will support individuals and communities. You’ll gain hands-on experience through placements, learning to navigate complex social issues, improve outcomes, and champion social justice.
Why choose this course
Kingston University offers a flexible Social Work Apprenticeship, combining university learning with practical experience at your workplace. You’ll develop key skills and knowledge for a successful career in social work. In addition, you will study best practice with adults and children, engaging with areas such as:
- Mental health
- Disability
- Adoption and fostering
- Substance misuse
- Children in conflict with the law
- Domestic violence
Social Work Apprenticeship students also have access to our innovative skills lab. The skills lab is a purpose-built facility where social work students have the opportunity to learn and to practise key social work skills.
Social workers undertaking continuing professional development courses develop their assessment and intervention skills and other skills such as mentoring, teaching and providing reflective supervision.
The skills lab is divided into several sections including:
- a seminar/case conference room for a maximum of 20 people;
- a simulated living-room and front door to assist in developing skills relating to home visits;
- five interview rooms simulating work environments;
- a control room with two-way mirror and viewing monitors; and
- all rooms have fitted cameras and microphones so that activities can be recorded.
Accreditation
The programme is approved by Social Work England. On completion, the apprentice will have fully satisfied the educational base for Social Work training and following satisfactory fulfilment of the End Point Assessment, successful apprentices would be eligible to apply to Social Work England for professional registration as a social worker.
Course content
You will gain a foundation in ethics, diversity, psychology, sociology, social policy and law for social work practice. You will study best practice with adults and children, engaging with areas such as mental health, disability, adoption and fostering, substance misuse, children in conflict with the law, and domestic violence.
This degree apprenticeship is designed to support learning both at the workplace, where you will spend 80% of your time learning on the job in work-based settings with your employer, and at the University, where you will spend a minimum of 20% of your time engaged in off-the-job learning attending Kingston University taught sessions. Some of the modules are taught in 5-day and 10-day blocks.
Year 1
In your first year, the modules will help prepare you for social work, enabling you to develop a repertoire of professional responses that can be used in practice. You will be introduced to theories of human development, law, policy and ethics. Alongside these modules, you will take a work based learning module that allows you to demonstrate practice skills mapped against the readiness for direct practice level, followed by the first placement level of the social work professional capability framework (PCF).
Core modules
30 credits
This is the first module on the programme. It is designed to prepare apprentices for the transition into the social work apprenticeship degree by aiding the development of their professional identities. Previous learning experiences will be re-contextualised to demonstrate how their knowledge, skills and behaviours apply within social workers' responsibility and accountability, as required by the professional regulator and the relevant standards.
This module will support apprentices to develop a repertoire of professional responses that will be developed in practice.
The focus is on developing a deeper understanding of the apprentice's professional identities. Apprentices will engage in activities that take them beyond knowledge of the social worker role, to an understanding of what it means to personally and professionally enter into the social work profession, along with the natural shifts in power and inherent tensions in any new role. Active reflection on values, attitudes, expectations and beliefs will guide apprentices to develop their ‘professional selves'.
30 credits
This module is designed to introduce apprentices to theories, research and models that inform apprentices' understanding of human development, patterns of human behaviour, and interventions and decisions in the workplace. The module encourages apprentices to develop an analytical approach to learning in preparation for developing professional practice. The application of critical thinking tools will aid apprentices to evaluate the credibility and appropriateness of specific academic material to their observation.
30 credits
In order to start developing legal literacy, apprentices will be guided to interpret information within the legislative frameworks and assess the extent to which given sets of facts meet certain legal criteria. Apprentices will have the opportunity to learn about the different policies that influence social work practice, the laws that determine what practitioners are able and are required to do as social workers and the legal impact of practice on the rights of individuals and families.
Apprentices will build upon prior learning using the module learning outcomes to demonstrate their preparation for their new role as a social work apprentice. Previous learning experiences will be re-contextualised to demonstrate how their knowledge, skills and behaviours apply within social workers' responsibility and accountability, as required by the professional regulator and the relevant standards.
30 credits
This is the first of three modules on this course that enable apprentices to demonstrate practice skills against the nine domains of the Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) and the Integrated Degree Apprenticeship Standards for Social Workers.
Apprentices will build upon prior learning using the module learning outcomes to demonstrate their preparation for their new role as an apprentice social worker. Previous learning experiences will be re-contextualised to demonstrate how their knowledge, skills and behaviours apply within social workers' responsibility and accountability, as required by the professional regulator and the relevant standards.
In this on-the-job learning module, apprentices will be supported by a mentor, sub-regional assessor (SRA), and their line manager and/or mentor to work through agreed learning objectives mapped against the appropriate levels of the PCF and apprenticeship standards. People with lived experience will be involved throughout.
Year 2
You will learn about inter-professional work and develop a degree of practice agility to work effectively within different settings. You will learn to evaluate how social work models, theories and research inform planning, assessment, and interventions; and further develop knowledge on social work in action, developing your earlier legal learning and applying into a rights and justice based social work context.
You will also take a work based module where you will undertake a contrasting work based learning experience mapped against the second placement level requirements of the social work professional capability framework (PCF).
Core modules
30 credits
Apprentices will use the module learning outcomes to demonstrate their preparation for their role as a social work apprentice. Previous learning experiences will be re-contextualised to demonstrate how their knowledge, skills and behaviours apply within social workers' responsibility and accountability, as required by the professional regulator and the relevant standards.
This module builds on the knowledge apprentices gained in SWAD 4.2 (Development across the lifespan) Drawing on apprentices current practice, this module enables apprentices to further develop their ability to evaluate how social work models, research, and theories inform planning, assessment, and interventions. Drawing on the narrative accounts of those with lived experiences of social work, apprentices will be supported to increase their reflective awareness of how assumptions and biases promote or hinder outcomes. Apprentices will begin to build confidence and ability to understand complexity and risk while developing professional decision-making skills.
30 credits
This is the second of three modules on this course that enable apprentices to demonstrate practice skills against the nine domains of the Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) and the Integrated Degree Apprenticeship Standards for Social Workers. Apprentices will build upon prior learning using the module learning outcomes to demonstrate their preparation for their role as an apprentice social worker. Previous learning experiences will be re-contextualised to demonstrate how their knowledge, skills and behaviours apply within social workers' responsibility and accountability, as required by the professional regulator and the relevant standards.
30 credits
This module builds on the Transitions module in year one and further develops apprentices' professional identity. Apprentices will develop behavioural skills, values and knowledge to work collaboratively within organisational systems as well as inter-professionally, while remaining accountable to their own organisations with a clear sense of social work identity. Apprentices will gain an understanding of the thread between organisational systems, research informed practice and, outcomes for people living with the experience of social work. Previous learning experiences will be re-contextualised to demonstrate how their knowledge, skills and behaviours apply within social workers' responsibility and accountability, as required by the professional regulator and the relevant standards.
30 credits
This module builds on apprentices learning about law, policy and ethics from Level 4 and translates earlier learning into a rights and justice based social work context. This will develop apprentices' legal literacy and the use of professional authority and make judgements within legal and ethical frameworks. All content is considered from national and international perspectives to ensure that apprentices are able to connect global forces that inform structural, legal and professional parameters. Previous learning experiences will be re-contextualised to demonstrate how their knowledge, skills and behaviours apply within social workers' responsibility and accountability, as required by the professional regulator and the relevant standards.
Year 3
In the final year of the course, you will complete a module to consolidate knowledge and skills for practice, examined by an in-depth analysis of a case study from practice, and an integrated approach to practice (a work-based module). The final module enables you to take a creative approach towards your social work practice. You will create an idea which will benefit professional practice.
Upon successful completion of the academic modules and gaining a total of 360 credits, apprentices are nominated by their employers to finish the End Point Assessment (EPA). As a gateway requirement, in addition to the 360 credits, you must provide evidence of a specified level of English and maths, and satisfactory completion of the off-the-job hours.
Core modules
30 credits
This final year consolidation project enables apprentices to synthesise and apply the knowledge and skills that they have acquired throughout the apprenticeship programme by undertaking an in-depth analysis of a case study derived from work-based learning. This should be a case study that raises issues that related to a developing specialist area or interest to the apprentice. Previous learning experiences will be re-contextualised to demonstrate how their knowledge, skills and behaviours apply within social workers' responsibility and accountability, as required by the professional regulator and the relevant standards. This module is also designed to help apprentices prepare for the end point assessment by supporting the development of skills that will enable them to approach the end point assessment equipped with the necessary ability to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout the apprenticeship.
60 credits
This is the third of three modules on this course that enable apprentices to demonstrate practice skills against the nine domains of the Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) and the Integrated Degree Apprenticeship Standards for Social Workers. Apprentices will build upon prior learning using the module learning outcomes to demonstrate their preparation for their role as a pre-qualifying apprentice social worker. Previous learning experiences will be re-contextualised to demonstrate how their knowledge, skills and behaviours apply within social workers' responsibility and accountability, as required by the professional regulator and the relevant standards.
30 credits
This final year module allows you to investigate and design a product of potential benefit to children, young people, or adults. You will firstly identify an area of interest linked to a current issue, concern, gap, or dilemma which is linked to your practice. You will then use the knowledge, skills, and experience that you have acquired throughout the course, and your professional experience, to investigate and identify what could helpfully address the issue identified. You will be expected to demonstrate person-focused practice, creativity, and problem-solving ability in developing an idea which will be of practical use in working with people. This might include a direct work tool(s), creation of a VLOG or other form of representation, that identifies and attends to the issues/ dilemma and justifies the approach taken.
Future Skills and career opportunities
This course leads to the award of a BA (Hons) Social Work (Degree Apprenticeship) and a professional qualification through End-Point Assessment (EPA). An EPA is an impartial evaluation to determine whether you have developed the required skills, knowledge, and behaviours to complete your course. Furthermore, you would be eligible to apply to Social Work England for professional registration as a social worker.
Following this there are opportunities in the statutory, voluntary and private sectors. Social workers increasingly work in integrated, interprofessional teams in social care, health, education and criminal justice.
This collaborative approach will prepare you for a range of career opportunities, where you can make a real impact by supporting individuals and communities in need.
At Kingston University, we're not just keeping up with change, we're creating it
For more information on how Kingston prepares you for the future job market, visit our Future Skills page.
Teaching and assessment
Learning on this course will take place both in your place of work and at the University. You will spend 80% of your time learning on the job (work-based learning with your employer) and at least 20% of your time learning off the job (attending Kingston University taught sessions or engaged in guided independent study).
Throughout your course, you will be supported by a team comprising a university-based sub-regional assessor (SRA), a work-based line manager and a work-based mentor. The SRA will be your academic and personal tutor who will assess your on-the-job learning, working closely with your line manager, your mentor and yourself to complete a Personal Learner Curriculum (PLC). This is a document that outlines support arrangements for both on-the-job and off-the-job learning, to maximise your potential. Regular meetings will be held to review the PLC to ensure it is kept up to date.
During off-the-job learning, you will attend university-delivered teaching sessions and participate in interactive seminars with other apprentices on this course. The University has a range of support systems, including online learning resources, to support you to prepare and submit work for assessment at the end of each module.
Outside the scheduled learning and teaching hours, you will learn independently through self-study which will involve reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, preparing for and completing your work for assessments. Some independent study work may need to be completed on-campus, as you may need to access campus-based facilities such as studios and labs.
Our academic support team here at Kingston University provides help in a range of areas.
When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, be a support throughout your time at Kingston and show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at Kingston University.
Year 1
- On the job learning (approx): 940 hours
- Guided independent study (self-managed time): 210 hours
- Scheduled learning and teaching: 175 hours
Year 2
- On the job learning (approx): 1240 hours
- Guided independent study (self-managed time): 230 hours
- Scheduled learning and teaching: 175 hours
Year 3
- On the job learning (approx): 575 hours
- Guided independent study (self-managed time): 105 hours
- Scheduled learning and teaching: 75 hours
Assessment typically comprises exams (e.g. test or exam), practical (e.g. presentations, performance) and coursework (e.g. essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios, dissertation). The approximate percentage for how you will be assessed on this programme is as follows, though depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose.
- Year 1: coursework: 80%; exams: 20%
- Year 2: coursework: 87%; practical: 7%; exams: 5%
- Year 3: coursework: 62%; practical: 32%; exams: 5%
Based on the Education and Skills Funding Agency funding rules your on-the-job training will also be assessed to ensure that it meets the requirements of the apprenticeship standard. You will also need to successfully complete an End-Point Assessment.
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
Your individualised timetable is normally available to learners within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm.
To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally attracts 60 learners and lecture sizes are normally 60. However this can vary by module and academic year.
End-Point Assessment
Each apprentice on an approved Apprenticeship Standard is required to take an End-Point Assessment (EPA) to complete the programme. The EPA is delivered by an End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) that is registered with the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA).
The EPA is either integrated as part of the apprenticeship or completed after the course element. If an apprentice is completing the EPA after the course element, they must ensure they have successfully completed their learning, achieved the gateway requirements and finished uploading their evidence prior to taking the EPA.
Fees and funding
This degree apprenticeship programme is funded through the Government's Apprenticeship Levy within the approved funding band.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from £50 to £250 per year. And a personal computer can range from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard-copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
Kingston University will pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from £30 to £350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our free intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations - Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, and Norbiton.
Courses involving placements or direct work with vulnerable groups may require a DBS check or other security checks.
Next steps
Employees
If you are currently employed full time and would like to find out more about apprenticeships, please ask your employer to contact the Kingston University apprenticeship team.
Employers
If you are an employer interested in how apprenticeships can support your organisation and employees, please contact the apprenticeship team for further details.
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Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Find out more about course changes
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
